The Power of Pick and Carry Cranes

Beau Knowles • December 19, 2024

Pick and carry cranes have revolutionised the construction industry, offering unmatched versatility and efficiency. These self-propelled cranes are designed to lift and transport heavy loads over short distances, making them ideal for a wide range of applications.

Understanding Pick and Carry Cranes

A pick and carry crane is a type of mobile crane that combines the lifting capabilities of a tower crane with the mobility of a truck. It comprises a chassis, a boom, and a counterweight. The boom can be hydraulically extended and rotated to reach various positions.

Key Features of Pick and Carry Cranes

  • Self-propelled: These cranes can be driven from one location to another, eliminating the need for disassembly and reassembly.
  • Versatile: They can handle a wide range of loads, from construction materials to heavy machinery.
  • Compact: Their compact design allows them to operate in tight spaces.
  • Efficient: They can quickly lift and transport loads, saving time and labour costs.
A forklift crane expertly maneuvering a heavy vessel inside a tight factory space, precision lifting in action.
pick and carry crane

Types of Pick and Carry Cranes

  • Truck-Mounted Cranes: These cranes are mounted on a truck chassis, providing excellent mobility and lifting capacity.
  • All-Terrain Cranes: Designed for rough terrain, these cranes have advanced suspension systems and off-road capabilities.
  • Compact Cranes: Smaller and more manoeuvrable, these cranes are ideal for confined spaces.

Applications of Pick and Carry Cranes

Pick and carry cranes have a wide range of applications in various industries:

  • Construction:
  • Lifting and transporting construction materials, such as steel beams, concrete blocks, and roofing materials.
  • Installing prefabricated components, such as wall panels and roof trusses.
  • Demolishing structures and removing debris.
  • Industrial:
  • Loading and unloading heavy machinery and equipment.
  • Installing and maintaining industrial plant equipment.
  • Transporting large components within factory premises.
  • Infrastructure:
  • Constructing bridges and tunnels.
  • Installing power lines and telecommunications towers.
  • Maintaining roads and highways.

Benefits of Using Pick and Carry Cranes

  • Increased Productivity: Pick and carry cranes can significantly increase productivity by reducing downtime and labour costs.
  • Improved Safety: These cranes are equipped with advanced safety features, such as load limiters and emergency stop buttons, to minimise accidents.
  • Cost-effective: They offer a cost-effective solution for lifting and transporting heavy loads, especially for short-term projects.
  • Flexibility: Their versatility allows them to adapt to various job site conditions.

Choosing the Right Pick and Carry Crane

When choosing a pick-and-carry crane, consider the following factors:

  • Lifting Capacity: The crane must be capable of lifting the heaviest load you anticipate.
  • Boom Length: The boom length should be sufficient to reach the desired working height.
  • Terrain Conditions: The crane's chassis and tyres must be suitable for the job site conditions.
  • Operator Experience: Ensure that the operator is trained and experienced in operating pick and carry cranes.
  • Maintenance and Servicing: Regular maintenance and servicing are crucial to ensure the crane's optimal performance and safety.

Knowles Crane: Your Reliable Partner

Knowles Crane is a leading provider of crane services in Australia. With a team of experienced professionals and a fleet of modern cranes, they offer a comprehensive range of services, including:

  • Crane Hire: They offer a wide range of crane hire options to suit various project needs.
  • Crane Operation: Their skilled operators can safely and efficiently operate cranes of all sizes.
  • Crane Maintenance: They provide regular maintenance and servicing to ensure the optimal performance of your cranes.
  • Crane Consulting: Their experts can provide advice on crane selection, operation, and maintenance.

By partnering with Knowles Crane, you can be assured of reliable and expert crane services.



Pick-and-carry cranes have become indispensable tools in the construction and industrial sectors. Their versatility, efficiency, and safety features make them an excellent choice for a wide range of applications. By carefully selecting the right crane and partnering with a reputable provider like Knowles Crane, you can maximise the benefits of these powerful machines.

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