Crane trucks, truck-mounted cranes

A crane truck, also known as a loader crane or knuckle boom crane truck, is a commercial vehicle that integrates a truck chassis with a hydraulically operated crane. This combination provides a versatile solution for lifting and transporting goods in a single operation, eliminating the need for a separate mobile crane on-site. These vehicles are indispensable in sectors like construction, where they handle building materials such as bricks and precast concrete sections. They are also crucial in logistics for loading and unloading heavy cargo, and in municipal services for utility and maintenance work.

The efficiency of a crane truck lies in its ability to combine mobility with substantial lifting power. The crane is typically powered by the truck's engine via a Power Take-Off (PTO) system. Modern units often come equipped with remote controls, allowing the operator to position loads with precision and a clear line of sight, enhancing both safety and productivity on the job site.

Types of Crane Trucks

Crane trucks are configured in various ways to suit specific operational requirements. The most common types include:

• Rear-mounted crane: With the crane fitted at the very back of the chassis, this configuration offers excellent lifting performance over the rear and sides, making it ideal for towing and loading trailers.
• Behind cab crane: This is the most prevalent setup, where the crane is mounted directly behind the driver's cab. It allows for a long, unobstructed load bed, perfect for general cargo and building supplies.
• Crane with flatbed: A standard combination used for transporting palletised goods, machinery, or structural components, offering easy loading and unloading from all sides.
• Crane with tipper: This variant combines a loader crane with a tipper body, a versatile choice for handling and transporting bulk materials like scrap metal, gravel, or construction debris.
• Heavy-lift cranes: Mounted on robust 4- or 5-axle chassis, these cranes are engineered for heavy haulage tasks, such as lifting industrial equipment, containers, or large precast elements.

Major European Manufacturers

The European market for crane trucks is dominated by established chassis and crane manufacturers known for their quality and performance. Leading truck chassis brands include Scania, Volvo, MAN, Mercedes-Benz, and DAF, all providing reliable platforms with various axle configurations (e.g., 6x4, 8x4). The cranes themselves are produced by specialists such as Palfinger, renowned for high lifting capacity and technological innovation; Hiab, valued for its durability and precise control systems; and Fassi, which offers one of the widest ranges of models for diverse applications.

New Crane Truck Prices

The valuation of a recently produced unit is determined by the chassis specification, crane lifting capacity (measured in tonne-metres or tm), and additional features. While costs can vary, typical payment levels provide a general guide. For example, the total cost can increase significantly with specialist attachments like grapples or winches.

• Light-duty (7.5-12t chassis): A new vehicle like an Iveco Eurocargo with a 5-8 tm crane typically costs between €95,000 and €140,000.
• Medium-duty (18-26t chassis): A 6x2 or 6x4 MAN TGS or Volvo FM with a 15-25 tm crane usually falls in the €160,000 to €250,000 range.
• Heavy-duty (32t+ chassis): A 4- or 5-axle Scania R-series or Mercedes-Benz Arocs equipped with a high-capacity crane (50-90 tm) can range from €280,000 to over €450,000.

Used Crane Truck Prices

The used market offers cost-effective options, with the valuation of a vehicle influenced by its age, mileage, crane operating hours, technical condition, and certification status. When evaluating a second-hand vehicle that has been used in demanding applications, it is crucial to check the boom for cracks and the hydraulics for leaks. A well-maintained vehicle with a full service history commands a higher price.

• 10-15 years old: A 2009 MAN TGA 26.440 6x4 with a Palfinger PK 29002 crane and around 500,000 km might be priced between €40,000 and €60,000, depending on its condition and recent inspections.
• 5-8 years old: A 2017 DAF CF 8x2 with a Fassi F275A crane and approximately 250,000 km could be listed for €95,000 to €135,000.
• 1-3 years old: Nearly new models with low mileage and few crane hours are often priced at 70-85% of their original value, offering a good balance between modern technology and cost savings.

Factors Influencing Price

Several key factors collectively determine the market value of these vehicles, whether new or second-hand. Understanding these drivers helps buyers make an informed decision.

• Lifting Capacity and Outreach: The primary value drivers are the crane's maximum lifting moment (tm) and its hydraulic reach (m).
• Stabiliser Configuration: The number and type of outriggers (stabilisers) are critical for stability and influence the crane's safe working load.
• Chassis and Drivetrain: The brand reputation, axle layout (e.g., 8x4 for heavy loads), engine power, and transmission type significantly impact price.
• Condition and Documentation: For used vehicles, a documented history of regular maintenance and valid crane inspection certificates (such as CE marking and periodic checks) are essential.
• Additional Features: Equipment like a remote control system, a winch, a personnel basket, or specialised attachments like a grapple add to the vehicle's cost.

Where to Buy

Marketplaces like Truck1 offer a structured platform to find a suitable crane truck. Buyers can use filters to narrow down their search by key criteria such as chassis manufacturer, crane brand, lifting capacity, price range, and seller's country. Truck1 provides access to a wide inventory of a used crane truck for sale in Europe from numerous dealers. Before you buy crane trucks, it is advisable to compare several listings, review detailed photos and technical specifications, and then contact the seller directly through the platform.

The search for a specific crane truck for sale can be streamlined by using the platform's comparison tools to assess different offers. This allows for a thorough evaluation of each vehicle's features against its price point, ensuring you find the right equipment for your needs.

If you cannot find a suitable listing that meets your specific requirements, you can submit your request through this form: I'm looking for.

Frequently Asked Questions