Types of Cranes Used in Construction & How to Choose the Right One

June 10, 2025 By Admin

Why Choosing the Right Crane Matters

Selecting a crane is the most critical decision in your construction project. There are many types of cranes used in construction; truck crane, telescopic cranes, and crawler cranes, among others. Make sure that your machine is suitable to safely do the work demanded by your project. This guide describes the various types of lifting fleets and also leads to decision-making based on weight, height, terrain, and mobility. The following selection guide has been written for B2B clients managing an infrastructure project or a high-rise in India and who are interested in safe, flexible, and cost-effective solutions.

Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Crane

1. Load Capacity

  • Meet your heaviest load. Choose lifting equipment to hoist it safely.
  • Keep in mind boom extension and lift radius.

2. Lift Height Requirements

High-reach construction of subway and high-rises demands telescopic or tower cranes.

3. Site Conditions

  • Soft ground or unstable terrain? Crawler cranes are more stable.
  • City streets? Truck-mounted crane is ideal.

4. Mobility Requirements

If the equipment has to move between lift locations, a mobile or all-terrain crane would be preferred.

Types of Cranes Commonly Used in Construction

1. Telescopic Cranes

  • Ideal for urban projects and fast deployment
  • Boom can extend or retract, making it versatile for different height requirements

2. Crawler Cranes

  • Suited for long-term, heavy lifting at industrial or infrastructure sites
  • Operates well on uneven or soft soil

3. Truck-Mounted Cranes

  • Excellent for highway mobility
  • Easy to mobilize and demobilize for short-term construction tasks

Check - Crane Rental Cost in India: A Budgeting Guide for Contractors

Which Crane Fits Which Project?

Project Type

Recommended Type

Urban High-Rise Buildings Telescopic or Truck-Mounted Cranes
Metro & Infrastructure Crawler Cranes or Specialized Hoists
Cement or Steel Plants Crawler Cranes with High Load Capacity
Small Residential Projects Mobile/Truck-Mounted Cranes
Power Plants & Refineries Crawler or Hydraulic Cranes

Learn Top Crane Rental Projects in India: Case Studies & Applications

Crane Selection Checklist

Utilize this handy checklist prior to finalizing your lifting equipment for rental or purchase:

  • Establish your maximum load weight and lifting height needs
  • Determine terrain conditions - urban, off-road, muddy, or limited space
  • Select between static lifting vs. mobile mobility
  • Verify road access, crane turning circle & site entry limitations
  • Consider duration of use - short-term vs. extended deployment
  • Verify certified operator availability and local regulation
  • Pair fleet type with project type (residential, metro, industrial, port)
  • Get vendor to provide maintenance, backup support, and insurance
  • Include mobilization time and proximity to nearby crane hubs in consideration
  • Ensure crane's certifications, inspection records, and load tests are available

View More about - Crane Safety Checklist Before Renting: What Contractors Must Know

Conclusion

Crane choosing is more than about moving weight - it's about finding the right gear for your project's environment, budget, and objectives. Whether you are working metro infrastructure, industrial installation, or commercial construction, selecting the proper crane can shave a lot of time and money off your bottom line.

Need expert help choosing the right crane for your next project?

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