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Do you need help picking the best crane for your big job? At CLW GROUP, we know how hard it can be to choose. So today, I will show you the difference between a mobile crane and a truck-mounted crane. Let’s make it easy!
What Is a Mobile Crane?
A mobile crane is a big machine that lifts heavy things. It can move from place to place on its own. A mobile crane works on many job sites like construction sites, infrastructure projects, and rough ground.
Mobile Crane Types
- All-Terrain Crane: Can go fast on roads and move on bumps.
- Rough-Terrain Crane: Made for very bumpy ground.
- Crawler Crane: Has tracks like a bulldozer for soft earth.
Key Features
- Self-propelled with a dedicated carrier (special base).
- Can move around big or small job sites.
- Outriggers help it stand still and safe.
- Has a high lifting capacity for heavy jobs.
- Uses a big boom and counterweights for lifting.
- Good in many ground conditions.
What Is a Truck-Mounted Crane?
A truck-mounted crane is a crane placed on top of a big truck. This lets it go fast on roads. These cranes work well in cities, towns, and on level ground.
Truck-Mounted Crane Types
- Hydraulic Truck Crane: Uses fluid power to lift.
- Conventional Truck Crane: Uses mechanical parts (not as common now).
Key Features
- Sits on a commercial truck chassis.
- Has two cab areas: one for driving and one for running the crane.
- Very road-legal; goes on highways fast.
- Quick to get on and off job sites.
- Good in urban environments and for utility work.
Table: Mobile Crane vs. Truck-Mounted Crane
Let’s look at the main differences. This makes it easier to see how they are unique!
| Feature | Mobile Crane | Truck-Mounted Crane |
|---|---|---|
| Road Speed | Up to 65 mph (AT), slow (RT) | Up to 65+ mph |
| Chassis | Dedicated, tough carrier | Modified commercial truck |
| Operator Cab(s) | 1 or 2 (drive/lift together) | 2 (one for driving, one for crane) |
| On-Site Mobility | Great on rough and soft ground | Best on hard, flat ground |
| Setup Time | Takes more time on big jobs | Quicker setup on firm ground |
| Lifting Capacity | Very strong, with big reach | Strong, but less than biggest mobile cranes |
| Transport | May need extra vehicles, permits | Drives itself to the site |
| Usual Jobs | Big builds, wind farms, rough places | Cities, short jobs, road work |
| Price | High cost, special design | Lower cost, standard truck parts |
| Maintenance | Needs crane experts | Some parts like regular trucks |
Why Does This Matter for You?
You need the right crane for your job. If you pick the wrong one, work slows down and money goes out the door. Let’s talk about what you really need.
- Do you have a job site with rough or soft ground? You want a mobile crane.
- Do you need to go fast on the highway or work on city streets? A truck-mounted crane is the best.
- Does your job need a big lift or many moves? Mobile cranes move and lift more.
- Is your site small or hard to get to? All-terrain cranes are perfect for tight spaces.
Use Cases: When to Use Each Crane
When You Need a Mobile Crane
- Lifting heavy machines for a bridge.
- Building in a remote location.
- Working on a wind farm or big construction site.
- Need to move around a lot on rough ground.
When You Want a Truck-Mounted Crane
- Putting up phone poles in the city.
- Lifting an air unit on a store roof.
- Need to drive the crane far and fast on main roads.
- Short-term jobs on strong, flat ground.
Advantages and Disadvantages (Quick List)
Mobile Crane
Pros:
- Ready for tough jobs.
- Moves well off-road.
- Lifts very heavy.
Cons:
- Can cost more.
- Needs more setup.
- Sometimes needs special trucks to carry it.
Truck-Mounted Crane
Pros:
- Great on roads.
- Quick setup.
- Lower cost.
Cons:
- Not good on soft or rough ground.
- Less lifting power than big mobile cranes.
Choosing the Right Crane: What to Think About
Before you choose, ask yourself:
If you answer these, you can pick the best crane every time.
Real Example
Let’s say you need to build a bridge over a busy road. A truck-mounted crane is great—it zooms over the highway, sets up fast, and gets out quick. No long wait for traffic.
But, what if your new job is lifting steel parts in a muddy field? That’s when a mobile crane shines! It rolls through the mud, lifts high, and keeps your project moving.
CLW GROUP: Your Partner for the Perfect Crane
At CLW GROUP, we make and deliver both mobile cranes and truck-mounted cranes. We even help with custom production, vehicle delivery, and after-sales support. Our team offers technical consulting services so you get the right crane every time.
We work with top crane manufacturers like Liebherr, Tadano, Terex, and Grove. Our special trucks factory has the right choice for you. Need something different? We can build it just for your job.
Check out our material handling cranes, aluminum truck flatbeds, or even a strong semi tow truck for your next big lift.
Do you need a cement mix truck for your site? We can help with that, too!
Important Facts
- Mobile cranes do best on soft, bumpy, or off-road ground.
- Truck-mounted cranes go great on highways and city streets.
- Both need outriggers for safety.
- China’s CLW GROUP gives quick delivery and expert service.
Summary Table
| Crane Type | Best For | Moves On | Lifting Power | Setup Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile Crane | Rough jobs, heavy lifts | Any ground | Very Strong | Medium |
| Truck-Mounted | City jobs, fast travel | Roads, firm ground | Strong | Fast |
References
- OSHA, “Crane Safety Standards”, www.osha.gov
- Liebherr, Tadano, Terex, Grove product catalogs (2024)
- CLW GROUP Product Guide, 2024
Are you ready for the perfect crane? Contact CLW GROUP. Let us meet your needs and help you lift your project to new heights.
