5 Features To Look For When Buying Or Renting A Mini Crane
A mini crane can give your project the lift it needs - especially in case of access, space or weight restrictions. These compact marvels have become indispensable in several sectors such as railway line maintenance, urban construction, industrial plan upgrades, or utility installations.
Since they pack in the lifting capabilities of a full-sized crane minus the bulk, you will find them everywhere. That said, if their popularity has convinced you to add mini cranes to your fleet, we suggest pausing and evaluating your options before sealing the deal.
Whether you are buying or renting, the mini crane you get must have the following feature set to be worth the investment.
1. Strong Lifting Capacity In A Compact Frame
After all, the compact size of a mini crane is a part of its appeal. The fact that it can easily fit into the narrowest of spots - think alleys, rooftops, rail corridors or indoor spaces - without compromising on its lifting prowess makes it an attractive choice for all types of contractors. The model you get should have:
- An impressive lift-to-weight ratio
- A small footprint during operation
- Outriggers or extendable booms so it can reach the toughest spots while being stable
For example, our mini cranes check all of these boxes. Designed to be space-efficient and strong, they are perfect for all kinds of job sites that demand both agility and stellar performance.
2. Power Options
For certain types of jobs and working conditions, not having flexible power options can be a dealbreaker. However, in the case of others, it might not matter so much. That said, you should get a mini crane with a power source most suitable for you.
- Diesel: Get this if you primarily work outdoors and need heavy-duty lifting
- Battery-electric: This one is perfect for noise-sensitive environments and indoor operations
- Hybrid: Powered by both diesel and electric, get this mini crane if your job requires frequent switching between the two
Small mobile cranes with low emissions are the perfect choice for urban centers. They keep noise to a minimum while adhering to local environmental regulations.
3. Adaptability To Different Terrains
Your job might take you to unpredictable sites with all kinds of terrains. From muddy construction zones to ice rail tracks, the sheer diversity can be mind-boggling. Ergo, it’s wise to ensure your mini crane has:
- Rubber tracks that work on all terrains
- A gradeability rating for uneven or sloped surfaces
- A stabilization system to ensure safe operation on varying grounds
At Platform Basket Canada, we offer mini cranes that maintain their mobility and safety on challenging terrains owing to their advanced features, such as built-in stabilizers and non-marking rubber tracks.
4. Safety Controls
Operator safety should always be the number one item on the agenda when getting a small mobile crane. Good ones feature -
- Remote control operation that enhances visibility while minimizing operator exposure
- Emergency stop functions and load-monitoring systems to prevent mishaps
- Built-in safety alarms to alert in case of tilting or overload
Having CSA-compliant mini cranes is critical. So, ensure the one you end up with has all the necessary safety certifications it needs to be legally operable in Canada.
5. Easy Mobility & Set-up
The very essence of mini cranes lies in their ease of transportation and set up. Things you should look for in this regard include:
- Lightweight construction so it can easily fit into trucks and trailers
- Retractable or folding components that allow for easy storage and access when needed
- A quick deployment system so it’s ready for use in moments when on-site
For contractors, moving from one job site to the next in the span of a single day should be as easy as possible. High-quality small mobile cranes can help with that.
Conclusion
No matter the task you get a mini crane for, it should fulfil the above requirements to be a smart and sensible choice that’s worth the investment. Prioritizing features such as size, power options, safety, and adaptability can help you get a crane that guarantees long-term performance.
If you’re wondering where you can find one, Platform Basket Canada is it. Our mini cranes also come with added accessories so you can customize them to suit your niche requirements. Contact us to get Italian-made small mobile cranes that go beyond expectations.
