When you’re working on a construction project that requires heavy lifting, having the right crane on site is critical. In the New England area, Astro Crane has been helping businesses with all their crane rental needs for over 40 years. With a fleet that ranges from 6-ton to 600-ton cranes, we understand the importance of proper preparation. Here’s how to ensure that your crane rental is ready to hit the ground running the moment it arrives on your jobsite.

Assessing Your Project Needs

Before you bring in a crane, you should have a clear and concise plan of how, when and where it will be used. Every jobsite is unique, and selecting the right crane is not just about its lifting capacity but also about the working environment, the type of material being lifted, and the specific challenges of your site. Here are some key considerations:

1. Understand the Load Requirements

One of the first steps in preparing for a crane rental is knowing exactly what you need to lift. Cranes come in various sizes and capacities; we offer cranes from 6 tons to 600 tons. However, it’s not just about the weight. You need to consider:

• The size and shape of the load.
• The height the load needs to be lifted.
• The distance the crane will need to move the load.

The more specific you can be with what you’ll need for, the easier it will be to find the right crane rental.

2. Evaluate the Jobsite Conditions

After understanding your load requirements, the next step is to evaluate the jobsite itself. The physical environment where the crane will operate can greatly influence the type of crane you’ll need.

• Ground Conditions: Is the ground stable enough to support the crane? If the ground is soft or uneven, additional preparations like ground mats or stabilization may be necessary.
• Space Constraints: Cranes need sufficient space to operate. Tight urban environments, for example, may require a smaller crane with a more compact footprint or a mobile crane that can maneuver in confined areas.
• Weather Considerations: New England weather can be unpredictable. Wind speeds, in particular, are crucial when operating cranes. We’ll work with you to ensure that your crane rental is suitable for the conditions you expect on your site.

By thoroughly evaluating the jobsite, we can help you select a crane that not only meets your lifting requirements but also operates safely and efficiently in your specific environment.

Coordinating with the Astro Crane Team

Once you’ve assessed your project needs and evaluated your jobsite, the next step is to coordinate with your crane rental team, by doing the following.

1. Plan the Lifting Operation

Collaborating with our experienced crane operators and rigging specialists ensures that every detail of the lifting operation is planned. We’ll discuss:

• Rigging Requirements: What type of rigging will be needed? Different loads may require specific rigging solutions, from slings and shackles to spreader bars. Our team will provide the necessary equipment and expertise.
• Crane Positioning: Where will the crane be positioned? The crane’s setup location is crucial for both safety and efficiency. We’ll help you determine the optimal position based on the load’s path and the jobsite’s layout.
• Safety Protocols: Safety is our top priority. We’ll work with you to establish safety protocols, including load tests, communication plans, and emergency procedures. Our experienced operators have seen it all, and have the experience needed to handle any job site.

2. Schedule the Crane Rental

Time is money in construction, so always be sure to be on the early side of scheduling a crane rental. Here are some variables to factor in:

• Lead Times: Some projects require months of planning, while others may need a crane on short notice. Let us know your timeline so we can schedule accordingly.
• Transport and Setup: We’ll handle the logistics of getting the crane to your site and setting it up. Depending on the crane size and the jobsite’s complexity, setup can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day.

Final Preparations and Jobsite Readiness

With the crane scheduled and all the details planned, the final step is to prepare your jobsite for the crane’s arrival. Make sure you clear the area. The last thing you want is debris or other potential hazards in the operating area.

Also, make sure to communicate the crane’s arrival with all other workers on site. Go over lifting plans, potential hazards and where everyone should be so that all workers know their role and can handle it safely.

Remember, before any lift can begin, our operators will conduct a thorough inspection of the crane and the rigging equipment. This final check ensures that everything is in perfect working order and that all safety measures are in place. Be prepared for this step to avoid delays.

If you’re ready to schedule your crane rental or need further assistance in selecting the right equipment, don’t hesitate to contact us.