Large cranes are essential for certain heavy-duty lifts, they are not always necessary. For many construction, maintenance, installation, and material-handling jobs, a boom truck provides the mobility and lifting capability you need without the footprint of a larger crane.
When Mobility and Flexibility Are Important
Advantageously, boom trucks combine a truck chassis with a hydraulic lifting boom. This design allows the equipment to travel efficiently between locations and get into position relatively quickly. For projects involving several stops or lifts at different areas of a jobsite, that flexibility is especially useful.
Boom trucks can be well suited for jobs such as delivering and placing construction materials, installing signs, positioning HVAC equipment, handling roofing materials, and assisting with utility or maintenance work. Because they are generally more compact than larger cranes, they may also be appropriate for jobsites where working space is limited.
Their mobility can also help reduce the amount of equipment required for certain projects. Materials can potentially be transported to the site and lifted into position using the same vehicle, depending on the specific job and equipment configuration.
When the Lift Does Not Require a Larger Crane
To select the right crane, you must consider the weight of the load, required lifting height, horizontal reach, site conditions, and equipment. A boom truck is often the most efficient option when loads fall within its rated capacity and the required reach is appropriate for the equipment. Using a larger crane than necessary can add complexity to a project, especially when space is restricted or the lift itself is relatively straightforward.
However, every lift is different. Factors such as ground stability, overhead obstacles, nearby structures, power lines, and the location where the equipment will be positioned can affect whether a boom truck is appropriate.
Thankfully, boom trucks offer an effective middle ground for projects that require substantial lifting capability but do not call for a large hydraulic crane. The goal should always be to match the equipment to the specific demands of the job rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach.
We have more than 30 years of experience helping customers throughout New England determine the appropriate equipment for a wide variety of lifting projects. Our fleet includes versatile crane rental and crane service options, and qualified operators are available when professional operation is needed. If you are planning a project and are unsure whether a boom truck or another type of crane is the right choice, contact us.