Crane hire plays a critical role in Melbourne’s diverse construction and infrastructure sectors. From towering commercial developments in the CBD to complex transport or rail infrastructure projects in the suburbs, the need for safe, efficient and specialised lifting solutions continues to grow. But with so many different types of cranes available, how do you know which is right for your project?
Understanding the distinct advantages of various crane types can help you make informed decisions, reduce costs, and boost on-site productivity. In this blog, we take a closer look at the most popular crane truck hire options available in Melbourne - Mobile, Crawler, and Franna, and when you might need each one.
Mobile Cranes
Best for: Versatile lifting in urban environments
Mobile cranes are among the most commonly hired cranes in Melbourne. As their name suggests, these cranes are mounted on wheeled trucks or carriers, making them quick to transport and easy to manoeuvre into position.
Membrey’s offers a fleet of mobile cranes for hire in Melbourne with different lifting capacities, ideal for construction sites with space constraints. Their hydraulic boom system enables fast setup, while the ability to travel on public roads removes the need for additional transport.
Typical uses:
- Commercial construction in tight CBD sites
- Tower installation
- Short-term, high-efficiency lifts
Advantages:
- Fast setup and demobilisation
- Minimal space required
- Wide range of capacities
Crawler Cranes
Best for: Long-term or heavy-duty construction projects
Unlike mobile cranes, crawler cranes operate on a tracked undercarriage, providing superior stability and traction—even on uneven terrain. These cranes are particularly useful for large-scale or infrastructure jobs that require sustained lifting capacity over longer periods.
Membrey’s crawler crane hire is a go-to choice for civil and rail works across Victoria. These cranes can be moved while fully loaded, giving them an advantage in jobs that require frequent repositioning on large worksites.
Typical uses:
- Major infrastructure projects (bridges, tunnels, rail)
- Wind farm installations
- Long-term industrial builds
Advantages:
- Can lift heavier loads
- Operates on difficult ground conditions
- Excellent for long-term hire
Note: Crawler cranes require specialised transport to site and longer assembly time, so they’re not suited for short-term jobs.
Franna Cranes (Pick and Carry)
Best for: Short, flexible lifts and transport tasks
Franna cranes are a type of pick-and-carry crane, designed to lift heavy loads and travel short distances without outriggers. They offer excellent mobility and are ideal for moving materials around construction sites or lifting and shifting equipment in confined spaces.
Membrey’s Franna crane hire is particularly useful for clients needing fast response and adaptable lifting solutions across Melbourne’s industrial and commercial areas.
Typical uses:
- Factory machinery relocation
- Construction material shifting
- Utility works
Advantages:
- No outriggers needed
- Quick mobilisation
- Can travel with loads over short distances
Choosing the Right Crane for the Job
Selecting the right crane starts with a thorough understanding of your site conditions, lifting requirements, and project timelines. Consider the following questions:
- What is the weight and height of the load to be lifted?
- How much space is available for crane operation and setup?
- Is the terrain stable, sloped or uneven?
- Will the crane need to move with a load?
- Is the lift part of a short-term or long-term project?
The Membrey’s team provides expert advice and planning support to help you answer these questions and more. With over 60 years of industry experience and a fully certified crew, they ensure that each crane hire meets your safety, budget and logistical needs.
Specialised Lifting with Membrey’s
Beyond standard crane hire, Membrey’s also offers custom lifting solutions involving jacking systems, rigging, engineering support, and heavy haulage. This makes them one of the most comprehensive crane hire companies in Melbourne, trusted by builders, councils, engineers and industrial operators alike.
Whether it’s a one-day city lift or a multi-month regional infrastructure build, their versatile crane fleet and skilled operators are ready to support projects across Victoria and beyond.
Enquire Today
Need help selecting the right crane for your next project? Contact the Membrey’s team to discuss your crane hire needs in Melbourne. They’ll work with you to tailor a solution that’s safe, efficient, and built for success.
