How Much Does Crane Hire Cost? A Transparent Breakdown
Hiring a crane can be overwhelming if you’re unsure what affects the price. At NMT Crane Hire, we believe in transparency and helping clients understand every factor that goes into calculating a crane hire cost. This guide breaks it all down so you know exactly what to expect and things to consider.
Crane Hire Pricing Models
At NMT, we offer two main crane hire options:
CPA Crane Hire (Crane and Operator Only)
- More affordable option.
- You take responsibility for planning and supervising the lift.
- Priced hourly or daily.
CPA Contract Lift (Fully Managed Service)
- NMT takes full responsibility for the lift.
- Includes planning, insurance, supervision and execution.
- Higher cost but offers a fully comprehensive service.

Type of Crane
The type of crane you require for the job is one of the biggest cost factors. Here’s an example of what to expect based on our fleet:
- City Cranes (13–50 Ton): £400–£600 per day. Ideal for tight or urban sites.
- All Terrain Cranes (35–160 Ton): £800–£2,000 per day. Versatile and suitable for many sites.
- Heavy Cranes (200–700 Ton): £5,000+ per day. Best for major industrial or infrastructure projects.
- Mobile Tower Cranes: Price varies. Combines height with mobility.
Duration of Hire
The length of hire can reduce costs over time:
- Short-term hire: Standard daily rates apply.
- Long-term hire: Discounts often available.
Location and Travel
Where your project is located makes a difference:
- Local projects typically incur minimal travel charges.
- Distant sites may require additional transport and setup costs.
Site Conditions
Challenging sites can increase crane hire costs:
- Restricted access may require smaller or specialist cranes.
- Poor ground conditions might mean extra preparation or stabilisation.
Lift Complexity
Not all lifts are straightforward:
- Standard lifts use basic pricing.
- Complex or heavy lifts need additional equipment, planning, and personnel, increasing costs.
Additional Costs
Some projects may also require:
- Traffic management and road closures.
- Permits for specific lifts or locations.
- Additional personnel such as supervisors or slingers.
- Weather delay management if the job is interrupted.
Get a Tailored Crane Hire Cost
Every project is different, which is why the best way to get an accurate crane hire cost is to contact NMT Crane Hire directly. We offer free site surveys and no-obligation quotes. Our team will help assess your requirements and provide you with the most competitive and transparent pricing for your project. Get in touch today and let us help you lift with confidence.