How to Choose the Right Crane for Your Project
Selecting the right crane can make all the difference to the success, efficiency and safety of your project. Whether you’re lifting structural steel for a commercial build, installing precast concrete panels, or handling delicate materials like glass or glulam timber, every job has its own set of requirements… and the wrong equipment choice can cost you time, money and peace of mind.
At Sventek Cranes & Rigging, we’ve spent more than three decades helping clients work through those decisions. Here’s what to consider when deciding on the crane that’s right for your next lift.
Understand the Load
The first factor in determining how to choose the right crane for your project is the weight and size of the load. Larger or heavier items often call for cranes with greater lifting capacity, such as our 100-tonne or 120-tonne Liebherr models. On the other hand, smaller or more confined lifts may be better suited to a compact crawler crane or Franna pick-and-carry unit. It’s also important to consider the load’s dimensions and balance – certain shapes, like long steel trusses, may require spreader bars or specialist rigging techniques to ensure a safe, stable lift.
Assess the Site Conditions
Not all worksites are created equal – tight access, uneven ground or limited headroom can make some cranes more suitable than others. For example, our Maeda MC305C crawler crane is ideal for navigating restricted spaces or challenging terrain, while our mobile cranes can be driven directly to site for rapid setup. Site conditions will also influence the crane’s setup area, outrigger placement and boom reach requirements, so an accurate site assessment is essential.
Factor in Reach and Height
The reach and height of the lift often dictate which crane is required. Lifting to the top floors of a multi-storey building will need a crane with a longer boom, while installing materials over existing structures might require additional jib attachments. When planning your project, consider not just the maximum height, but also the working radius (how far the crane needs to reach while maintaining capacity).
Consider the Duration and Nature of the Job
Some projects need a crane for a few hours; others might require ongoing lifting support over several weeks. A short-term steel install is a different proposition from a staged construction project or ongoing industrial maintenance. Matching the crane to both the work and the timeline helps keep your budget and schedule on track.
Why Work with Sventek Cranes & Rigging?
Choosing the right crane isn’t just about ticking boxes on capacity, reach and terrain – it’s about having the right crew behind the machine. At Sventek, we don’t just turn up with equipment; we bring decades of practical experience, problem-solving know-how and a safety-first approach that ensures every lift is executed smoothly. From initial site inspections and lift planning through to rigging, dogging and final placement, our team manages every detail so you can focus on the bigger picture. Our diverse fleet and skilled operators mean we can match the best crane to your project, every time.
Ready to get started?
If you’re weighing up how to choose the right crane for your project, talk to the team who does it every day. Contact Sventek Cranes & Rigging for reliable equipment, expert advice and a lift plan tailored to your site and schedule.