Choosing the correct lifting solution is critical for project success, especially when it comes to heavy lifting. Crane hire and contract lifting services each have distinct advantages, based on your project requirements and available experience.
Here, we’ll break down both alternatives to help you decide which service is ideal for your project.
All services, including crane hire and contract lifting, are conducted under CPA (Construction Plant-hire Association) terms and conditions, ensuring standardised procedures and compliance.
Crane hire allows you to rent a crane, leaving your team responsible for managing the lift. JT Cranes provides access to versatile mini cranes designed for tight spaces and precision work, but with this option, your team is in charge of all planning, risk assessments and safety measures.
For companies with trained personnel and resources to manage the technical and safety aspects, crane hire offers flexibility and can reduce costs. Your team has control over the timing and specifics of the lift, giving you the freedom to adjust plans according to your project needs.
JT Cranes’ mini crane range offers unmatched versatility for projects that require high-precision handling in confined spaces, ideal for a variety of industries.
JT Cranes has complete responsibility for the lifting operation as part of the overall contract lifting service. This covers everything, from preliminary risk analyses and lift scheduling to the supply of equipment, insurance and on-site supervision. Contract lifting is particularly helpful for complicated or high-risk projects since you can depend on skilled experts to guarantee a safe, legal lift.
When you choose contract lifting, JT Cranes will take care of everything, freeing up your staff to concentrate on other important tasks rather than lifting logistics.
Additionally, standard ‘goods on hook’ insurance as required by the CPA is £25,000. JT Cranes offers a standard limit of £250,000, which can be increased for one-off projects.
Note: Regardless of whether you choose crane hire or contract lifting, the client is responsible for ensuring safe and stable ground conditions for the crane operation.
Crane hire is suitable for straightforward lifts where you control the process. Contract lifting is better for complex, multi-stage, or high-risk projects requiring expert oversight.
If your team has the necessary skills, crane hire can be a cost-effective choice. However, if lifting is not your core expertise, contract lifting provides access to skilled professionals who handle every detail.
Contract lifting with JT Cranes includes full insurance and rigorous safety protocols. This is essential for projects with higher stakes, whereas crane hire leaves risk management in your team’s hands.
Crane hire can be more affordable if you already have the necessary expertise, while contract lifting may have a higher cost but offers end-to-end services that can prevent costly errors or delays.
Crane hire and contract lifting each have significant advantages. Crane hire is great for experienced teams who require flexibility and control, whereas contract lifting offers a fully managed option with safety and competence at the forefront.
Not sure which method is best? Contact JT Cranes to to discuss whether our Contract Lifting solutions or our Mini Crane Hire options would work best to help you achieve an effective and safe lifting operation. Call us on +44 (0)1767 677 155
Since 1981, we have built a solid reputation as a family-run business on the border of Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire. JT Cranes was founded by John Taylor and began as a roadside maintenance and servicing company. In 2006, we turned our focus to mini crane technology, becoming the area experts in mini crane hire, contract lifting and sales.