Cranes of all shapes and sizes are a common sight on construction and utility projects all around Australia. This largely has to do with their versatility and functionality. In addition, machinery rental has made it considerably easier for just about anyone to have access to a crane when they need it.
Just about every project manager will agree that the crane hire Melbourne companies rely on is a fast and simple way to get the equipment you need minus the huge capital outlay. If you’re still on the fence about hiring your first crane, then this post is a must-read.
Rental Is Easy and Convenient
Crane hire is an effective way to get the machine you need for the period that you need it. This process is especially beneficial if you only need a crane for a few tasks around your job site. Our team of rental experts have compiled a list of the most essential factors to consider when you’re thinking of crane hire.
1. Crane Rental has Many Benefits
Aside from saving on the huge expense that goes with a crane purchase, there are also a few other benefits that make rental a more viable option. The most significant include the following:
- Access to the latest technologies: It’s common knowledge that machine and equipment technology is ever-changing and continuously being upgraded to work more efficiently. Buying a crane is limited to the technology of that model. Hiring, on the other hand, allows you to rent a machine with the latest technology. This will give you an upper hand over your competitors.
- Zero maintenance costs: You don’t have to own a crane to know that their maintenance costs can be quite astronomical. In addition to this, a crane that is being serviced or repaired can create considerable downtime. With a rental, the onus is on the hiring company to do all the maintenance and provide you with a working crane.
- No need for storage fees: A crane, even a mobile one, isn’t something that you can park in your garage at home. This means that buying a crane will require long-term, secure storage. With rental, the machine goes back to the agent when you’re done with it. The cost of storage isn’t your responsibility.
- Wide variety: Have you ever bought something only to wish later that you had bought a different, bigger, or smaller model? Since cranes don’t all perform the same tasks or fit in the same spaces, you may find yourself needing different sizes for varying jobs. Rental allows you to hire the unit you need when you need it. Need a bigger one? Simply hire it!
2. Crane Trucks are a Much Better Option
Buying your own crane will require a plan of how you’re going to get your crane from one job site to another. This can often add to the expenses of the crane and can cause delays. When you’re hiring a crane, you have the option of hiring a crane truck, or mobile crane as it’s also known.
Mobile cranes are more economical as the crane is mounted on the back of a truck. This means that the crane can easily be driven to and from the job site without any added hassle. A wide range of sizes, weight capacities and added features means that you will easily have access to the best machine for your unique project requirements.
3. Remember Your License
Whether you’re buying or renting a crane of any size, it’s essential to know what the legal requirements are regarding operator licensing. As per Australian Law, any person who operates a crane of any size should be trained and certified by a registered Australian training organisation.
In most cases, you will have two options to consider here:
- Arrange an operator via the rental company: Including an operator in your rental package may not always be standard. This would depend on the hiring company and the type of services they offer. However, if an operator can be included, the cost would be well worth it. Not only are you getting access to a licensed operator without incurring the training costs, but you will also be using an individual who is familiar with the way the crane works.
- Train your own operator: Training your own operator will ensure that you always have one when you need it. However, if you’re not going to use a crane all day, every day, it might be a waste of resources. An alternative here would be to train an existing employee who can still perform other duties when the crane isn’t running. This person will need to be at least 18 years old and understand enough English to understand the training and the safety requirements.
Final Thought
Crane hire has significantly changed the way construction is done in Australia. You no longer need to own a fleet of heavy-duty machinery to qualify for specific jobs. Having access to a quality hiring company means that even the smallest construction companies can now compete for any job. With a simple rental process, hiring will become your go-to option!