Every commercial project comes with unique lifting requirements, and choosing the right crane truck can determine whether your operation runs smoothly or faces costly setbacks. More often than not, the choice isn’t just about lifting capacity. It also involves efficiency, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness.

With commercial projects, two of the most popular choices are traditional crane trucks and Hiab crane trucks. Both are great choices, however, each of these crane trucks have strengths that are more suitable to certain situations. Understanding these strengths and limitations will assist business owners or contractors make the right decision for their project.

Learn about the differences between these two crane trucks with our experts at Ultimate Crane Trucks.

Understanding Traditional Crane Trucks

Traditional crane trucks are vehicles equipped with a fixed or telescopic boom mounted on their chassis, which are often used in industries such as construction, infrastructure development, and logistics.

Their primary advantage is their substantial lifting capacity, making them indispensable for tasks like positioning large structural components or handling bulky equipment. Their telescopic booms also offer extended reach, allowing operators to lift loads to considerable heights.

Hiab Crane Trucks Explained

The term “Hiab” originates from Hydrauliska Industri AB, a Swedish company renowned for manufacturing loader cranes. However, in Australia, the term “Hiab crane truck” has become a generic term for vehicles fitted with a loader crane, typically of the knuckle-boom variety.

This kind of crane truck is known for their versatility. The articulated design of the knuckle-boom allows operators to manoeuvre materials around obstacles and place them with high accuracy. This capability is particularly advantageous in urban environments where space is limited and precision is critical.

Comparative Analysis: Traditional vs. Hiab Crane Trucks

1. Lifting capacity and reach

Designed for heavy lifting, traditional crane trucks can handle substantial loads. For instance, models like the Liebherr LTM 1250 have a maximum lifting capacity of 250 tonnes and a telescopic boom extending up to 60 meters. These specifications make them ideal for large-scale construction projects requiring significant height and load capacities.

On the other hand, Hiab cranes typically have lower lifting capacities. Their light-capacity cranes handle up to 12 tonne-meters, mid-capacity cranes range from 12 to 30 tonne-meters, and heavy-capacity cranes can lift between 30 to 100 tonne-meters. However, their articulated booms provide excellent manoeuvrability, allowing for precise load placement in tight or obstructed spaces.

2. Setup and operational efficiency

Traditional crane trucks often require extensive setup, including the deployment of outriggers to ensure stability. The setup process can be time-consuming and necessitates ample space, making them more suitable for open sites with fewer spatial constraints.

Hiab cranes are designed for quick deployment, with integrated lifting mechanisms that reduce setup time. Their compact design and flexibility make them highly efficient for urban projects with limited space and tight schedules.

3. Versatility and site accessibility

While powerful, traditional crane trucks require stable and spacious environments to operate effectively. Their size and setup needs may limit their use in densely populated urban areas or sites with restricted access.

Meanwhile, the compact and versatile nature of Hiab crane trucks allows them to navigate narrow streets and operate in confined spaces, making them ideal for urban construction and maintenance projects.

Choose the Right Crane Truck for Your Project

The choice between traditional crane trucks and Hiab crane trucks depends on the specific demands of your project. If your commercial project requires heavy lifting, traditional crane trucks can offer stronger lifting capabilities. However, if your project is situated in a confined or urban setting, Hiab crane trucks have the versatility and precision you need.

For Australian business owners seeking reliable and expert crane truck services, Ultimate Crane Trucks stands as a trusted partner. Our diverse fleet of modern crane trucks, operated by seasoned professionals, is dedicated to delivering exceptional service tailored to your project’s unique requirements.

Contact us today to book one of our crane trucks!