Home / Crane size guide
What size crane do I need?
Tonnage on the side of a crane is its best case. What you actually need depends on three numbers.
Get a free quote1. Weight
The heaviest single piece, plus rigging. Check the spec sheet or nameplate; for HVAC the unit's shipping weight is a good start.
2. Radius
Horizontal distance from the crane's center to where the load is picked or set. Capacity falls fast as radius grows, so this is usually the deciding number.
3. Height
How high the load must clear, including parapets, trees or the roofline. More height means more boom.
4. Setup space
Outriggers need firm, level ground and room to spread. Soft yards, slopes and overhead lines change what fits.
Typical jobs
| Typical job | Usual weight | Often handled by |
|---|---|---|
| Hot tub / spa | 500–1,000 lb dry | Boom truck or small crane |
| Residential trusses | Light, many picks | Boom truck |
| Rooftop HVAC (RTU) | 500–2,000 lb (larger units more) | Boom truck to mid-size crane, depending on reach |
| Tree removal assist | Varies by section | Small to mid-size crane |
| Steel beams / precast | Varies widely | Mid-size to large crane |
Weights are typical ranges from public guides (e.g. PICKHVAC); your operator checks the real load chart.
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