NATIONWIDE DIRECTORYHow Hiab hire is usually charged
Most operators price a job as a fixed quote or as a time-based rate, often with a minimum charge. A fixed quote suits a simple collection and delivery. Time-based hire suits site work where the crane is on standby or making many lifts. Ask which applies and what happens if the job overruns.
What affects the price
- Vehicle and crane size: a larger crane or an articulated lorry costs more than a small rigid
- Reach: lifting far from the lorry may call for a bigger crane or a fly jib
- Time: loading, travel between sites, waiting and the lift itself
- Distance: travel to the collection point and back from delivery
- Access: restricted sites, road permits, traffic management or out-of-hours work
- Lift planning: a contract lift, where the operator plans and takes responsibility, usually costs more than hiring the crane with an operator
- Extra crew or equipment: slingers, spreader beams, machine skates
Contract lift or crane hire with operator?
With crane hire with operator, you usually remain responsible for planning and supervising the lift. With a contract lift, the lifting company plans and manages it. The second costs more but transfers that responsibility. Agree which you are buying before the day.
Getting an accurate quote
Quotes are only as good as the information behind them. Send both postcodes, the load’s weight and dimensions, the distance from where the lorry can stand to where the load lands, photos of both sites, and your preferred dates. Ask for the quote in writing, stating what is included and any extra charges for waiting time.
Common questions
Is Hiab hire cheaper than a mobile crane?
Often, for loads a lorry loader can handle, because one vehicle carries and lifts, with no separate crane and haulage. For very heavy or high lifts, a mobile crane may be the only option.
Do Hiab operators charge for travel?
Usually, either built into the quote or as a separate line. Using an operator based near the job reduces travel time.
Why do quotes for the same job differ?
Operators may propose different vehicles, include different services or price travel and waiting differently. Compare what each quote includes, not just the total.