Tips For Purchasing A Used Industrial Crane

If your construction business is spending a large chunk of its budget each project on crane operating services or crane rental fees, then perhaps it is time to take the plunge and purchase one. However, since brand-new industrial cranes carry some hefty prices, purchasing a used machine is a great way to get more bang for your buck. If you don't have any previous experience evaluating used cranes for quality and reliability, then these tips will help get you started.

Tip: Always Start Your Search Online by Researching Your Options

Whether you a buying a tractor, dozer, or crane, your first step in the purchasing process should always be online research. Armed with some quiet time and your favorite search engine, research to get basic information on:

• crane manufacturers
• various crane makes and models
• past and current owner's reviews
• used crane prices

This research step is vital because it gives you an idea of what different makes and models are in the marketplace and how current and past owners have rated them. Additionally, you will gain important insight about prices in various parts of the United States. This will help you decide if you want to purchase a machine that's local to you or have one shipped from an area of the country where they are cheaper to purchase.

Tip: Pay a Heavy-Equipment Mechanic to Inspect Cranes before Purchase

Since used cranes come with some big price tags, you need to get this purchase right for your company. To best ensure you purchase a crane that's solid and will work for years to come, pay the relatively small cost and take along a heavy-equipment mechanic to have them check out any crane you consider for purchase. While they may not be able to spot all problems, they will very likely keep you from buying a lemon.

Tip: Don't Let Your Immediate Needs Cause an Avoidable Long-Term Problem

In conclusion, it is important to note your company's newly acquired crane will need to perform on many job sites and a wide variety of other projects in the future. For example, a smaller crane may be perfect for use on your current project, but then it may be too small to take on the project you need to complete next summer. The last thing you want is to buy a crane and then have to rent one because it isn't big enough or robust enough for subsequent projects! To avoid this common problem, take the time to think about all of your current and future projects requiring an industrial crane and then purchase one that meets as many needs as possible.

For more information, contact your local crane inspections service.