Why should you choose a mini crane for glass installation?
A mini crane is a small crane that is specifically designed for working in small areas, confined spaces and challenging terrain. They are the useful, jack of all trades of the crane family; and whilst they may be little in size, they can undoubtedly pull (or lift) their weight. Mini cranes are usually mounted on a chassis with a crawler style track; they have spider-like outriggers which means you can use them on uneven and rugged terrain with maximum stability.
A modern mini or spider crane can be operated on the crane, by a remote control or through stand-up access levers, enabling it to be utilised in a variety of different ways to suit a multitude of applications. Let's take a look at some of the top benefits of the mini crane and how hiring one will save you in time, money and effort.
Mini Crane Benefit #1 – Tonnage or Lift Weight
Even though they are small in size, the mini crane can lift significant tonnage. The Nippon Sharyo Mini Crawler Crane in the Lindores Mobile Crane Fleet can lift up to 4.8 tonnes and has a maximum boom length of 12.8m – certainly not what most people would expect from a "mini" crane.
Mini Crane Benefit #2 – Safety
When it comes to cranes, the closer the crane gets to the item being lifted, generally, the safer the lift. One massive benefit of the mini crane is that it can access all different types of sites enabling close crane set up and a safer lift. The outriggers of the mini crane (often what gets them labelled as the "spider crane") enable unparalleled safety and stability on uneven surfaces.
Mini cranes can also be used in situations to decrease risk on a construction site, such as replacing scaffolding. The crawler tracks on a mini crane also provide added stability when using the crane.
The different operation options also allow for increased safety when using the mini crane. In situations where the safety of workers is uncertain, or visibility is limited, some cranes such as our 2.8tonne mini crane, can be operated using the remote control.
Many work and construction sites are also concerned about emissions when it comes to equipment being operated on site. Mini cranes have a variety of power options, including battery power, which is perfect when the crane is being used indoors.
Mini Crane Benefit #3 – Saves Money
Cranes, even mini ones, are expensive pieces of machinery to purchase and maintain. The release of capital required for the outright purchase of a crane could be redirected into other areas of your business. Even if you hire cranes regularly for your operations, hiring costs are fixed and provide peace of mind when budgeting. Hiring a mini crane means that you only have to pay the hire cost when you need to use the equipment. There is no maintenance and no downtime or depreciation to be considered. When you are planning your project, you can hire for only the time required – leading to incredible savings.
Mini Cranes also save money on a work site by replacing multiple human resources when it comes to heavy lifting. The added safety of moving and placing glass with a mini crane means fewer breakages, and less breakages equals money saved.
Mini Crane Benefit #4 – Saves Time
Mini cranes can be used in areas that are difficult to otherwise access. You could spend hours transporting your equipment and supplies manually into your challenging to access build location, or you could use a mini crane. With all-terrain caterpillar tracks, the mini crane can make short work of your transportation requirements, saving you valuable time.
Mini cranes are versatile and can be used in a variety of different situations; the one mini crane hire on a construction site could be used for moving building materials, accessing a difficult part of the worksite, as a substitute for scaffolding and to place glass or other building materials in a second storey. Such a versatile piece of equipment can save you significant time across your project.
At Lindores Mobile Cranes we have a fleet of mini cranes ready to help you with your next project. Whether it be commercial, industrial or domestic, a mini crane could be just what you need, and hiring is the perfect low-risk alternative. We have a crane to suit just about any worksite and job. If you're not sure if a mini crane can help you, why not just ask? Our customers are always surprised by what the littlest members of our mobile crane fleet get up to around Brisbane. Give us a call to discuss which model in our fleet is best suited to your needs and arrange a quote.
The Liftout
At Lindores Mobile Cranes , we understand that the key to safe and efficient crane operations is regular preventive maintenance. By staying proactive, we minimise downtime, prevent costly repairs, and ensure our fleet remains in peak condition. Keeping our equipment in top-notch shape allows us to deliver the best possible service to you! Why is Preventive Maintenance Essential? Our cranes handle heavy loads daily and operate in demanding environments, which makes regular maintenance a top priority. Through routine inspections and servicing, we identify potential issues before they escalate, ensuring compliance with industry safety standards and extending the lifespan of our equipment. How Do We Maintain Our Cranes? Thorough Inspections We conduct daily and weekly checks on hydraulic systems, cables, brakes, and structural components to catch early signs of wear and tear. Lubrication and Fluid Monitoring Keeping our cranes properly lubricated and maintaining hydraulic and engine fluid levels helps us prevent mechanical failures. Routine Load Testing We regularly test our cranes to ensure they can safely handle the specified loads without risk of malfunction. Ongoing Operator Training Our experienced operators are trained to spot potential mechanical issues early, allowing us to address them before they cause disruptions. What are the Long-Term Benefits for Our Clients? ● Enhanced Safety – Our commitment to maintenance reduces the risk of accidents, protecting both our team and our clients. ● Operational Reliability – Well-maintained cranes mean fewer delays and smoother project execution. ● Cost-Effectivenes s – By preventing major breakdowns, we save on expensive emergency repairs and ensure competitive pricing for our services. Our Promise to You.. At Lindores Mobile Crane s, we take pride in maintaining a fleet that meets the highest standards of safety and efficiency. Our preventive maintenance program is more than just routine checks—it’s a commitment to delivering reliable, high-quality service every time you work with us. Why Choose Lindores Mobile Cranes ? When you partner with us, you’re choosing a team that values personalised service, unwavering dedication to safety, and a strong connection to the local community. As a family-owned business, we bring a level of care and expertise that sets us apart. Experience the difference our commitment makes— contact us today at lmcops@lmcranes.com.a u to learn more about our crane services.
At Lindores Mobile Cranes , cranes are in our DNA. We are a family-owned and operated company, dedicated to bringing you the best service. Our tight-knit team of skilled crane drivers, riggers and operations crew are passionate about delivering a personable experience that’s a cut above the rest. When selecting a crane service provider, opting for a family-owned and operated business like Lindores Mobile Cranes offers distinct advantages that can significantly enhance your project's success. In this blog, we outline some of the key benefits of working with a family-run company. Personalised Service Family-owned businesses often provide a level of personalised attention that larger corporations may lack. At Lindores Mobile Cranes , we take the time to understand each client's unique needs, ensuring tailored solutions that align with specific project requirements. Commitment to Quality and Safety With a family name associated with the business, there's an inherent commitment to maintaining high standards. We prioritise safety and quality in all operations, adhering to strict industry protocols to protect both our clients and team. Flexibility and Responsiveness Family-run operations can adapt quickly to changing project dynamics. Our team at Lindores Mobile Cranes is empowered to make swift decisions, allowing us to respond effectively to unforeseen challenges and keep your project on track. Deep Community Roots Being a family business, we have deep ties to the South East Queensland community. This local presence fosters trust and reliability, as we are invested in the success and development of our area. Long-Term Relationships We value building lasting relationships with our clients. Our family-oriented approach means we strive for repeat business and referrals, motivating us to exceed expectations consistently. Choosing Lindores Mobile Cranes means partnering with a team that offers personalised service, unwavering commitment to quality and safety, and a deep understanding of the local community. Experience the difference that a dedicated family-owned business can bring to your project. Enquire about our cranes today by contacting lmcops@lmcranes.com.au.
Operating mobile cranes is a critical part of many construction and industrial projects, but it comes with significant risks. Mistakes in crane operation can lead to project delays, equipment damage, or even serious injuries. At Lindores Mobile Cranes , safety and efficiency are at the core of what we do. Below, we’ll explore some of the most common mistakes in mobile crane operation and share how our team actively mitigates risks and prioritises safety on every lift. 1. Improper Site Inspection The Risk: Failure to assess the job site properly can result in uneven ground, insufficient clearance, or interference with nearby structures or power lines, all of which increase the risk of accidents. Our Solution: Lindores Mobile Cranes conducts thorough site inspections before every project. Our experienced team assesses the terrain, identifies potential hazards, and ensures the site meets all safety requirements. This proactive approach minimizes risks and ensures smooth operations from the outset. 2. Exceeding Load Capacities The Risk: Overloading a crane beyond its capacity can compromise stability, leading to equipment failure or tipping accidents. Our Solution: Our team rigorously calculates load weights and matches them with the crane’s capacity. We use advanced load-monitoring systems to double-check weight distributions in real-time. Additionally, our operators are fully trained to understand and adhere to each crane’s load chart. If necessary, we use multiple cranes to lift objects, ensuring sufficient lifting capacity and safe weight distribution. 3. Neglecting Proper Equipment Maintenance The Risk: Poorly maintained cranes are more prone to mechanical failures, which can cause downtime or dangerous malfunctions during operation. Our Solution: At Lindores Mobile Cranes , regular maintenance is non-negotiable. Our cranes undergo routine inspections and servicing by qualified technicians. We maintain detailed maintenance records and replace any worn parts before they become a problem, ensuring our equipment is always in peak condition. 4. Inadequate Operator Training The Risk: Untrained or under-qualified operators may misinterpret signals, improperly maneuver loads, or fail to respond correctly in high-pressure situations. Our Solution: We only employ certified and highly experienced operators. New employees receive consistent and thorough training and mentorship from senior members of our team, to ensure they uphold our high standard of service and operation. Additionally, our team is continuously trained and updated on the latest industry standards and safety protocols. 5. Ignoring Weather Conditions The Risk: Operating a crane in high winds, heavy rain, extreme temperatures or low-visibility heightens the risk of accidents, equipment damage and load instability. Our Solution: Weather conditions are always factored into our planning process. If conditions are deemed unsafe, we communicate transparently with our clients to reschedule operations. Our priority is always safety. 6. Failure to Use Proper Rigging The Risk: Improper rigging or using damaged lifting equipment can result in dropped loads, endangering workers and equipment. Our Solution: Our team is trained to select and inspect the right slings, shackles, and hardware for each lift. We follow strict rigging protocols to ensure every load is secure and balanced before lifting begins. 7. Poor Communication on Site The Risk: Miscommunication among team members can lead to errors in load handling, positioning, or crane operation, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Our Solution: We prioritise clear and consistent communication on all our job sites. Our operators, riggers, and ground crews use standardized hand signals and two-way radios to stay in constant contact, ensuring everyone is on the same page. Why Choose Lindores Mobile Cranes? At Lindores Mobile Cranes , we don’t just operate cranes – we deliver peace of mind. By prioritizing safety, meticulous planning, and industry-leading expertise, we ensure every lift is executed flawlessly. When you partner with us, you’re choosing a team committed to excellence, precision, and the highest safety standards. Ready to make your next project safer and more efficient? Contact Lindores Mobile Cranes today and experience the difference. For all enquiries, please contact lmcops@lmcranes.com.au.