Advantages of Crane Trucks

A crane truck is a lorry fitted with a hydraulic crane, usually mounted directly behind the cab on the chassis. This crane can lift and move goods independently, without the need for additional equipment.

Crane trucks offer several advantages. Below, we’ve listed the most important ones for you:

• Load and unload anywhere. No forklift, loading dock, or extra manpower required. Thanks to the built-in crane, you can work independently.
• Save time and money. You can load and unload immediately, without waiting for an external crane or extra help. This saves both time and costs.
• Flexible for different types of loads. Perfect for heavy, long, or awkward objects like machines, steel structures, containers, building materials, or concrete blocks.
• Efficient with multiple stops. When making several deliveries in a day, you’re not dependent on what facilities are available at each location.
• Safer working conditions. The crane reduces physical strain. Controlled loading and unloading lowers the risk of damage or injury. Modern systems offer remote control and extra safety features.
• Disadvantages of Crane Trucks

Despite the benefits, there are a few downsides to consider:

• Higher purchase and maintenance costs. You pay for the crane, installation, and potential chassis reinforcement. There’s also more maintenance needed—especially for the hydraulics.
• Reduced payload capacity. Due to the crane’s added weight, less room is available for actual cargo.
• More space required. Using the crane requires space around the truck. This can be challenging on narrow streets or tight construction sites.
• Additional skills needed. Operating a crane requires training or certification. You’ll need specialised drivers or have to invest in training.

When is a Crane Truck Essential?

Here are the 5 key situations:

• Working on a construction site

• Jobs in green space maintenance and infrastructure

• Transporting machinery or tools

• Delivering in city centres or tight spaces

• Placing materials at height

What Suits Your Work Best: A Standard Truck or a Crane Truck?

A standard truck remains the obvious choice in many situations. Below are a few cases where a regular lorry is the smarter option:

• You have loading/unloading equipment on site. If you have access to a forklift, dock, or other equipment, there’s no need for a crane truck.
• You want maximum payload and volume. A crane adds considerable weight. Without it, you can carry more goods—ideal for volume transport.
• You want to reduce purchase and maintenance costs. A lorry with a crane is more expensive to buy and maintain. If you rarely need the crane, it’s not worth the investment.
• You drive long distances or do distribution. The extra weight affects long-distance trips. A lighter truck uses less fuel and is more agile in urban environments.

Crane Truck or Standard Truck? Here’s How to Decide

Still unsure which is right for your work? These tips can help you make the right choice:

• Type of load. Is it heavy, awkward, or not on a pallet? Then a crane truck is ideal—you can load and unload by yourself.\ Are you transporting palletised goods or standard loads? Then a standard lorry will do just fine.
• Loading/unloading location. No forklift or dock on-site? You’ll need a crane truck.\ Do you always load/unload at fixed sites with equipment? A standard truck is more cost-effective.
• On-site flexibility. Delivering to various addresses? A crane truck offers independence from on-site infrastructure—you can always load/unload.\ Always driving the same routes or visiting the same clients? Then a standard lorry is more efficient.
• Payload and cargo volume. A crane weighs hundreds of kilos—that reduces your payload capacity.\ Without a crane, you can carry more—ideal for heavy or full loads.
• Costs (purchase and maintenance). A crane truck costs more to buy and maintain. It also involves inspection and operation costs.\ It’s only worth the investment if you use the crane frequently.
• Manoeuvrability and fuel efficiency. A standard truck is lighter and more fuel-efficient—better for long-distance or urban driving.
• Ease of operation and training. Operating a crane usually requires a certificate.\ Your staff must be trained—otherwise, it may cost extra time and bring risks.

The choice between a crane truck and a standard lorry depends greatly on your daily work, locations, and cargo.

If flexibility and independence are priorities, a crane truck is the right choice. You can load and unload anywhere, without needing extra tools or help.

If you drive fixed routes, cover long distances, and often carry heavy loads, a standard truck is your best bet—and usually the most cost-efficient option.

Take a look at BAS World's range of trucks and crane trucks. Still unsure what’s best for your needs? Contact one of our expert advisors. Our team is always happy to assist you.