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Crane hire can be used for many different projects, some short term, some much longer. While it may seem like a straightforward service, the planning, crane type, and logistics can vary significantly depending on the project length and requirements. In this blog, we are here to help you understand how to plan for the two kinds of projects, what is classed under which one and why a team like ours at NMT Crane Hire can benefit you and your goals.
What Is Considered Short/Long Term?
It typically depends on how long the crane is needed on site and the complexity of the planning and set-up. Every project is different and therefore, some categorisations can be easier than others, but here is a rough guide:
Short-term crane hire
Short-term projects typically last between a single day and a few weeks, depending on the size or difficulty of the lift. These jobs are usually task-specific, where the crane is brought in to complete a defined piece of work and then removed once the job is finished.
Common examples include:
- Lifting roof materials or steel beams into place
- Installing HVAC units or large equipment
- Moving machinery on or off site
- One-off construction or maintenance tasks
- Emergency or reactive lifts
- Film & TV production support, such as lifting lighting rigs, camera equipment, or set materials
Long-term crane hire
Long-term projects typically last from several weeks to a number of months, and in some cases for the full duration of a construction phase. In these situations, the crane becomes part of the ongoing site setup and is used at different stages as the project progresses.
Common examples include:
- New build construction projects
- Large-scale refurbishments
- Infrastructure and civil engineering work
- Ongoing steel frame installation
- Multi-phase commercial developments
How Planning Differs in Crane Hire
Planning is vital in any project and understanding the needs of our clients and the exact goals in mind can change up plans significantly so it needs to be right for smooth execution. Anytime we are needed for crane hire, we take into consideration the following factors:
Project Timeline
For short-term crane hire, the timeline is usually tight and focused around a specific day or task, so planning centres on making sure everything is ready for that set window. Access, lift timing, and coordination all need to be precise to avoid delays. For long-term projects, the timeline is more fluid and spread across several weeks or months, meaning the crane may be required at different stages. This calls for ongoing scheduling, flexibility, and close coordination with the wider site team as the build progresses.
Type of Lift and Load Requirements
On short-term projects, the lift is often clearly defined, such as installing equipment or moving materials into place, so the crane can be selected based on that single requirement. For long-term hire, the lifting needs may change over time as the project develops, so it’s important to choose equipment that can support a range of tasks across different phases.
Site Access and Space
Short-term lifts often take place in more restricted environments where quick setup and removal are essential, especially if the crane is only on site for a limited period. Long-term projects usually involve more permanent site setups, but space still needs to be carefully managed as other trades, materials, and structures begin to take shape around the crane.
Safety and Risk Planning
Safety is a priority for both short- and long-term crane hire. For short-term work, this involves making sure all lift plans, access points, and site conditions are assessed ahead of the scheduled lift. For long-term projects, safety planning becomes an ongoing process, with regular checks and coordination to ensure the crane continues to operate safely as the site changes over time.
Budget and Efficiency
With short-term hire, the focus is often on completing the task as efficiently as possible within a defined timeframe. For long-term projects, planning helps ensure the crane is used effectively throughout the build, supporting productivity across multiple stages and helping to keep the project running to schedule.
Types of Cranes for Different Projects
Mobile Cranes
Mobile cranes are one of the most common choices for short-term projects. They can be brought to site quickly, set up efficiently, and used for specific lifts such as installing equipment, lifting materials onto rooftops, or moving machinery. Their flexibility makes them ideal for jobs that need to be completed within a short timeframe.
Tower Cranes
Tower cranes are more often associated with long-term construction projects, particularly on large builds where materials need to be lifted regularly over several weeks or months. They are typically installed on site for the duration of a phase and support ongoing work as the structure develops.
All-Terrain Cranes
All-terrain cranes are useful for projects that involve more complex site conditions. They can be suitable for both short- and long-term hire depending on the job, especially where access is difficult or the terrain is uneven.
Compact Cranes
Compact cranes are often used for projects with limited space, such as city centre sites or indoor lifts. These are commonly seen on short-term jobs where access is tight and precision is needed.
Why the Right Crane Hire Support Matters
No two projects are the same, whether the requirement is for a single lift or ongoing support across several months. Having the right crane hire team in place helps ensure the correct equipment is selected, timelines are met, and every lift is carried out safely and efficiently.
Experienced support can make a significant difference from the early planning stages through to execution. By understanding site conditions, access requirements, and the overall goals of the project, the right team can help prevent delays, reduce risk, and ensure everything runs as smoothly as possible. This is just as important for short-term jobs that need precise coordination as it is for long-term projects that rely on consistent support over time.
Contact NMT Cranes Today!
Get in touch with NMT Cranes today, and we can help you plan your project all the way to assisting with execution.