heavy-duty truck mounted crane

Are you looking for a heavy-duty truck mounted crane? This guide will help you pick the best one. Truck cranes make lifting heavy things easy. Let’s learn about them!

What is a Heavy-Duty Truck Mounted Crane?

A truck mounted crane is a big lifting tool that sits on a truck. These cranes can:

• Move around job sites
• Lift heavy loads from 500 pounds to 10 tons
• Rotate 360 degrees to place items where needed
• Help with construction, forestry, and factory work
  These cranes are strong and can go places that big, fixed cranes cannot reach.
  for your heavy lifting needs!

Types of Truck-Mounted Cranes

There are many kinds of truck cranes:

1. Telescopic Boom Cranes

These cranes have arms that can stretch out. The CSCTRUCK TOWCRANE can lift 10,100 kg at just 2.5 meters. This crane is good for big jobs.

2. Knuckle Boom Cranes

These cranes fold up. The 10-Ton Hydraulic Knuckle Boom can work in small spaces. It has arms that bend like your arm at the elbow.

3. Folding Bed Cranes

These fit on pickup trucks. The VEVOR 2200 lbs Electric Crane can lift a lot with its 6000 lbs winch. It’s good for smaller jobs.

4. Mobile Crawler Cranes

These are the biggest. Liebherr makes some that can lift up to 1,200 tons! They use tracks to move on rough ground.
Learn more about our versatile crane trucks for your business needs!

Key Features to Look For

When you shop for a truck mounted crane, check these things:

Hydraulic System

Good cranes have triple-pump systems like the Freightliner 108SD Plus. This lets you control:

• The winch (up and down)
• The swing (side to side)
• The crane functions (extend and retract)

Lifting Capacity

Match what you need to lift:

Mobility & Stability

360° swivel bases like the VEVOR crane has let you work all around your truck. Big cranes need multi-axle chassis for balance.

Mounting Options

You can mount cranes two ways:

• Hitch-mounted – Connects to your trailer hitch
• Bed-mounted – Bolts to your truck bed
  The Western Mule cranes have been making both types since 1982.

Top 2025 Models

Here are the best cranes for this year:

Budget-Friendly Options

The Stark 1/2 Ton Hydraulic Crane costs between $1,000-$2,500. It can lift 1,100 lbs with a 3-ton jack.

Mid-Range Workhorses

The VEVOR Electric Pickup Crane lifts 1,100 lbs and has a 3,500 lbs winch. It’s good for most jobs.

Industrial-Grade Cranes

• Kenworth T280 with STELLAR 12630 – $235,995
• CSCTRUCK TOWCRANE 10-ton – 10,100kg lifting power
• National Crane 8100D – 100-foot boom reach
  Visit our mobile all-terrain crane selection for tough job site solutions!

Buying Guide

New vs. Used

Truck Compatibility

Make sure your truck is strong enough! Check:

• Engine size – Cummins L9 (350 HP) or PACCAR PX-7 engines work well
• Frame strength – Must handle crane weight plus loads
• Hydraulic system – 66-gallon tanks are good for big cranes

Budget Planning

Plan to spend:

• Light duty: $1,000-$17,900
• Medium duty: $17,900-$70,000
• Heavy duty: $70,000-$235,995+
  Chinese-made cranes cost less ($13,900) than USA-made models.

Uses By Industry

Construction

The Kenworth T280 helps move:

• Steel beams
• Concrete blocks
• Building materials

Forestry

VEVOR cranes are good for:

• Moving logs
• Loading timber
• Clearing brush

Utility Services

Western Mule bumper cranes help:

• Install power equipment
• Place utility poles
• Move heavy tools

Keeping Your Crane Safe

Hydraulic System Care

• Change filters on the 66-gallon tank often
• Check for leaks in hoses
• Keep oil clean

Load Safety

• Never lift more than the chart says
• Keep loads close to the truck
• Use the anti-two block safety device that stops the crane from hitting itself

Check Your Crane

• Look at telescopic arms for wear
• Test all safety features
• Oil moving parts

Common Questions

What’s the difference between knuckle boom and telescopic cranes?

Knuckle boom cranes fold up like your arm. Telescopic cranes stretch out like a telescope. Knuckle booms take less space when not in use.

Can I put a 6,000-lb crane on my pickup?

Ruger Industries says yes, but your truck needs:

• Strong frame
• Good suspension
• Proper mounting points

How much does a 10-ton truck crane cost?

A 10-ton crane costs between $13,900–$17,900 from factories, and up to $235,995 for premium models.

The Future of Truck Cranes

New cranes are getting:

• Electric winches – VEVOR models use 3500–6000 lbs electric winches
• Better safety – Anti-overload systems stop accidents
• Lighter materials – Stronger but lighter arms lift more
• Smart controls – Computer systems make lifting safer

Summary

Heavy-duty truck mounted cranes help you lift big things. From small VEVOR pickup truck cranes to huge 10-ton CSCTRUCK models, there’s one for every job.
Think about:

• What you need to lift
• How much you can spend
• What truck you have
  With the right crane, you can work faster and safer!
  Want to learn more about specialized trucks? Check out our heavy-duty emergency rescue vehicle options for complete fleet solutions!