Selecting the right crane size depends on several factors, including the distance you need to reach, the height you need to lift, and the weight or capacity of the load you plan to lift.
"Need to know the distance from the center rotation of the crane's set up and where the load is planned to be picked or landed along with the maximum height of the lift over any obstacles and total weight of the load including rigging attachments. Weather and environmental conditions and crane positioning also play a factor in calculating capacities.
Real Talk
A 90 (180,000 lbs) Ton crane can barely pick up 14,000 lbs at 60 feet which does not include the 15 feet needed for set up and required crane attachment deductions. So really it breaks down to 45' and 12,000 lbs (6 Tons) and that is at a 100% capacity so in true sense the crane and operator must be in top condition for this lift. The real number is 10,000 lbs (5 Tons).
Here's a step-by-step guide to help you determine the appropriate crane size for your specific needs:
Understand Your Lifting Requirements:
Distance: Measure the horizontal distance or radius from the crane's center point (usually the center of the crane's base) to the furthest point where the load needs to be placed or lifted.
Height: Determine the vertical height from the ground or the base of the crane to the highest point where the load needs to be raised or lowered.
Capacity: Calculate the weight of the heaviest load you expect to lift. Ensure that you consider both the weight of the load and any attachments or rigging.
Choose the Crane Type:
All-Terrain Crane: Versatile and suitable for a wide range of applications, including off-road use. Offers good mobility.
Truck-Mounted Crane: Convenient for road transport and suitable for various tasks. Good for urban and highway projects.
Rough Terrain Crane: Designed for off-road use, ideal for construction sites with challenging terrain.
Crawler Crane: Known for stability and heavy lifting capacity, especially in construction and industrial settings.
Telescopic Crane: Provides reach and versatility, making it suitable for tasks that require extended horizontal and vertical reach.
Tower Crane: Ideal for tall construction projects, as it can reach great heights. Commonly used in high-rise building construction.
Use Load Charts:
Crane manufacturers provide load charts that specify the crane's capacity at different boom lengths and angles. Refer to these charts to ensure that the crane's capacity meets or exceeds your load weight requirements.
Consult with Experts:
If you are unsure about the crane size needed for your project, consult with crane rental companies or crane experts. They can provide guidance based on their experience and expertise.
Consider Additional Factors:
Environmental Conditions: Take into account factors like wind speed, weather conditions, and site-specific challenges that may affect crane stability and operation.
Site Accessibility: Consider the available space for crane setup and operation. Ensure that the crane can be positioned safely and effectively at the work site.
Safety and Regulatory Compliance:
Ensure that the selected crane complies with all safety regulations and requirements for your location and industry.
Budget and Rental Costs:
Evaluate your budget and the costs associated with renting the crane. Choose a crane size that meets your needs while staying within budget constraints.
Mobilization Fees
It's common for larger cranes to charge a mobilization fee. A mobilization fee is an additional cost associated with transporting the crane to the job site, setting it up, and preparing it for operation. This fee covers various expenses incurred by the crane rental company to bring the crane to your location, and it can vary depending on factors such as the crane's size, the distance to the job site, and the complexity of the setup. Key points regarding mobilization fees for larger cranes:
Distance: The farther the crane needs to travel to reach your job site, the higher the mobilization fee is likely to be. This is because transportation costs, including fuel and logistics, increase with distance.
Crane Size: Larger cranes often require more time and resources to transport and set up, which can result in higher mobilization fees.
Setup Complexity: If the job site poses challenges in terms of terrain, access, or site preparation, it may require additional effort and equipment for crane setup, potentially increasing the mobilization fee.
Additional Costs: Mobilization fees can also include costs for permits, escorts, and any specialized equipment needed for transportation or setup.
Negotiation: In some cases, you may be able to negotiate the mobilization fee with the crane rental company, especially for long-term or large-scale projects.
It's essential to communicate with the crane rental company and obtain a clear understanding of all costs associated with renting a larger crane, including the mobilization fee, to ensure that your project budget is accurate and that there are no surprises. Additionally, consider factors like crane availability, operator costs, and rental duration when evaluating the total cost of renting a crane for your specific project. Minimum Hourly Service Rate
Crane rental companies typically charge a minimum hourly service rate for the use of their cranes. This minimum hourly rate is often applied to ensure that the crane rental is financially viable for the company, even for short-duration jobs. Here are some key points to understand about minimum hourly service rates for cranes:
Cost Coverage: The minimum hourly service rate is designed to cover various costs associated with crane rental, including equipment maintenance, insurance, permits, transportation, and the operator's wages.
Standard Practice: It is a common practice in the crane rental industry to have a minimum hourly charge, which ensures that the company can recover its fixed and variable expenses.
Short-Duration Jobs: Even if your job requires the crane for only a short period, you will typically be billed for the minimum hourly rate, which may cover a specific minimum number of hours, such as 2 or 4 hours.
Additional Costs: In addition to the minimum hourly rate, you will also be charged for any additional hours beyond the minimum, typically on an hourly basis. The rate for these additional hours may vary based on the type and size of the crane.
Different Cranes, Different Rates: The minimum hourly rate can vary depending on the type and capacity of the crane. Larger, more specialized cranes may have higher minimum rates.
Travel Time: Some crane companies may charge for the travel time it takes to transport the crane to your job site, which can be part of the minimum service rate.
Negotiation: In some cases, you may be able to negotiate the minimum hourly rate with the crane rental company, especially for long-term or larger projects. Discounts or adjustments may be available based on factors like rental duration.
"Hawaii boom trucks usually 4-6 hour minimum where larger cranes it is standard to charge an 8 hour service rate despite the length of the job for that day."
NOTE: Crane rental rates tend to be almost double of the rate charged in many areas around the United States.
When working with a crane rental company, it's essential to have a clear understanding of their pricing structure, including the minimum hourly service rate, to accurately budget for your project. Ensure that you communicate your project's specific requirements and duration to the rental company so that you can receive an accurate cost estimate.
Remember that selecting the right crane size is crucial for safety and efficiency. If in doubt, it's always better to consult with professionals who have experience in crane operations and can help you make an informed decision. Additionally, consider factors like the availability of certified crane operators and any required permits or approvals for crane use in your area.