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Chengli Automobile Industry Park
What are the different types of crane trucks available?
What Are the Different Types of Crane Trucks Available?
Are you looking to rent, buy, or just learn about crane trucks? This guide makes it easy to understand all the kinds of crane trucks out there. We use simple words and clear facts to help you know which crane truck is best for your job.
Table of Contents
What Is a Crane Truck?
A crane truck is a special vehicle that has a crane attached to it. These trucks can lift heavy things and move them around. They help with many jobs like building houses, fixing roads, and moving big stuff.
6 Main Types of Crane Trucks
1. Truck Crane
Truck cranes are very common. They have:
- A round base that spins
- Strong legs that fold out for support
- Two cabins – one for driving and one for using the crane
- Many different sizes for different jobs
These cranes help with road work and building projects. Many companies use them because they can go on roads and then work at job sites.
2. Telescopic Crawler Crane
Telescopic crawler cranes are special because:
- They have a boom that can get longer or shorter
- They can lift things while the boom is moving
- They work well on bumpy ground
These crane trucks are good for jobs where the ground is not flat. You see them at mining sites and in forests.
3. Drywall Crane Truck
Drywall crane trucks are made just for building jobs:
- They have very strong axles (20,000 lb front axle, 46,000 lb rear axle)
- Often built on a Freightliner M2106 truck
- Use special IMT 2530L crane systems for lifting building materials
These trucks make it much faster and safer to deliver drywall and other building stuff.
4. Rough Terrain Crane Truck
Rough terrain crane trucks are made for tough places:
- They have special suspension for bumpy ground
- The Liebherr LTF 1060-4.1 is a popular model
- Work well in mines, forests, and mountain jobs
When you need a crane in a place with no roads, these are the ones to use.
5. Boom Truck Crane
Boom truck cranes are very flexible:
- They have a long arm (boom) that can reach up to 110 feet high
- Have a lifting power of about 23 tons
- The National Crane 8100D is a popular model
These trucks are great for fixing power lines and doing work that needs to reach high places.
6. Jib Crane Truck
Jib crane trucks are used in factories and workshops:
- They have a straight arm that sticks out
- Good for lifting things in small spaces
- Help with putting things together in factories
These are smaller than other crane trucks but very useful for inside work.
Crane Truck Comparison Table
| Type of Crane Truck | Lifting Power | Example Models (2025) | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Truck Crane | 30–120 tons | Ford F-750 | Highway construction | $100,000-500,000 |
| Telescopic Crawler Crane | Adjustable 29.5’–100’ boom | National Crane 8100D | Unstable terrain lifting | $200,000-800,000 |
| Drywall Crane Truck | Based on truck specs (46,000 lb) | Freightliner M2106 with IMT 2530L | Building material delivery | $150,000-350,000 |
| Rough Terrain Crane | Varies by model | Liebherr LTF 1060-4.1 | Mining, forestry, off-road jobs | $250,000-900,000 |
| Boom Truck Crane | 23-ton capacity | National Crane 8100D | Utility maintenance, power lines | $180,000-450,000 |
| Jib Crane Truck | Smaller loads, precise lifting | Workshop-specific models | Factory assembly, tight spaces | $80,000-150,000 |
Crane Truck Types: A Simple Guide
Crane Truck Applications
Construction
Essential for lifting materials, erecting structures, and placing components in buildings and roads.
Highway and Bridge Maintenance
Used for repairs, installations, and the placement of heavy barriers and guardrails.
Utility Services
For setting up power lines, installing utility poles, and assisting in electrical work.
Industrial Installations
Helps in assembling and dismantling heavy machinery in sectors like manufacturing and mining.
Logistical Load Handling
Key for loading and unloading sizable components, especially in cargo transport and logistics facilities.
Lifting Capacity Comparison
How To Pick The Right Crane Truck
When you need to choose a crane truck, think about:
- How heavy are the things you need to lift?
- Where will you use the crane truck? On roads? In fields?
- How high do you need to lift things?
- How much money can you spend?
- Do you need special features?
What’s New In 2025 Crane Trucks
The newest crane trucks in 2025 have:
- Better fuel use – they use less gas or diesel
- Some use electricity for less pollution
- Stronger arms that can lift more weight
- Smart computers that help make lifting safer
- 75-100 ton models are very popular now
Popular Crane Truck Brands
Some top brands that make good crane trucks are:
- Ford
- Freightliner
- Kenworth
- National Crane
- Liebherr
- Manitex
Where To Learn More
Want to know more about specific types of trucks? Check out these helpful links:
- Truck-Mounted Crane – Learn about the most common type of crane trucks
- Mobile Crane – Discover different mobility options for crane equipment
- Material Handling Vehicle – Find out about specialized lifting solutions
Conclusion
Now you know the six main types of crane trucks! From truck cranes for road work to rough terrain cranes for tough spots, there’s a crane truck made for every job.
When picking a crane truck, think about what you need to lift and where you’ll be working. The right crane truck will make your job safer, faster, and better.
Have questions about crane trucks? Let us know in the comments!
