Any construction company that has been in business for a considerable time will tell you about a time when it was difficult to land a contract if you didn’t have the right equipment immediately. Fortunately, machine and equipment hire has levelled the playing field and made it easy for smaller companies to compete for jobs previously reserved for bigger companies.

Nowadays, it’s not uncommon for companies to use the crane hire Melbourne locals rely on as their go-to option. Are you getting ready to hire your first crane? Have you started looking for potential rental companies? If so, then this post is for you as we explore the top tips that you should keep in mind when you’re looking for the best crane hire company.

Partner With a Crane Company You Can Always Rely on

Finding the best crane hire company will ensure that you have access to an industry expert whom you can always use. This will make all your future hires so much easier. That said, how do you go about choosing a company that will give you affordable rates and top-notch service? Keep reading for our tips on finding the perfect crane hire partner.

1.      Check for Industry Experience and Reputation

You may think that one rental company is just the same as another. However, factors such as service, quality of machinery, and overall industry experience are significant in differentiating one company from another.

Your first step should then be to check industry experience. The goal is to find a company that has extensive experience in the rental aspect as well as in the type of crane that you need. You should be able to find this information on the company website, where they will list their years of experience along with their process.

Speak to other people in the industry to get a general feel for how they’re perceived. Pay attention to customer reviews and negative comments on their social media platforms. These can easily be found on various review platforms on the internet.

2.      Ask for Credentials

Don’t ever assume that the company you’ve shortlisted is properly accredited. You will have to check for the necessary credentials, which include licenses and insurances. If these aren’t listed on their official website, then you should ask for proof.

It’s important to have confirmation that the necessary insurance exists before signing any type of contract. This will give you peace of mind that the cranes and other machinery are being maintained and in line with regulated OEM recommendations.

3. Check Availability of Cranes

As with other types of heavy-duty machinery, cranes are available in a wide range of sizes, each with their own specifications. A well-established crane hire company will have a significant selection of cranes available.

There should be a selection of brands, models, sizes, and capacities, which will make it easier for you to find the safest and most efficient crane for the job. These cranes should also be well-maintained and available for inspection.

Be sure to discuss your specific lifting needs with the potential crane rental company for expert recommendations. You should be open to using new machines with modern technology, as these may be more efficient, helping you reach your deadline sooner.

4.      Compare Costs

Never settle for the first quote you get, even if you’re in a hurry. A reputable crane hire company will always strive to give you excellent crane hiring services at the best possible price. It’s important to compare quotes, the service offered, the advice given, and the availability of the crane you’re looking for.

The right company will offer services that will benefit your project and not their bottom line. Always question items or services listed on the quote that you’re unsure of. Speak to the rental agent about the criteria for extending contracts. For instance, you may want to hire a crane for two days, but bad weather turns a two-day job into a four-day job. You will then need a process for extending the contract. Be sure to assess how this extension affects the overall cost.

5.      Read the Contract

Always read the contract before signing on the dotted line. Be sure to check for hidden fees and confirm that there are no admin fees to be mysteriously added later. The contract should be clear and detailed.

Mention should be made of the company’s process for replacing a unit if it shows up at the site faulty or has maintenance issues half way through the contract period. Since the rental company is responsible for all the maintenance and servicing functions, a new unit or equivalent should be available for you to complete your project.

Final Thoughts

No matter what type of construction job you’re working on, it’s a good idea to be partnered with an efficient crane hire company. This will ensure that you always have access to the best advice, recommendations, and machinery needed for any current and future crane needs. Use our tips to take the stress out of the hiring process.