Many construction companies think they should invest in purchasing cranes to have on hand whenever they need them, and this may be the best option if you frequently use one to move heavy objects around like beams. However, most companies can get away with simply renting cranes as they need them. Here are three reasons why you may want to consider this option rather than buying a crane.

Fewer Employees to Hire

One of the main benefits of renting a crane is rental companies will also supply the operators; meaning, when you rent the equipment, the company will send someone to do the work you need done. This can have a positive impact on your profit margin in a couple of different ways.

First, you don't have to spend time hiring someone to operate the crane you own. There are several different types of cranes, and state law may require the person you hire to be licensed to operate all the ones you own. For instance, in Maryland, employees are required to be licensed to operate tower cranes. You would have to invest time and money into getting the employee trained and certified, costs which may not bear out if the person only operates the crane a few times per year.

Another benefit is the temporary crane operator would be considered an independent contractor. This means you don't have to worry about getting workers' compensation insurance or paying taxes for the person. The rental company would be responsible for those items.

It should be noted, though, that you can also get unmanned cranes. So, if you already have an employee with the proper credentials, you can rent the equipment alone, which may cost less since you're not getting the operator too.

Get the Size and Type You Need

Most crane rental companies have equipment in a variety of sizes to meet the needs of their customers. So you're likely to find the exact type of crane you need for the projects you're working on. For instance, you can rent a tower crane for work on high-rise buildings or a harbor crane for moving materials to and from ships.

The range of crane rentals available at rental companies provides you with a lot of flexibility on the type of projects you can bid on. Cranes can be expensive to purchase, and it can be challenging to buy one or two that will fit all your business' needs. On top of that, you'll need to spend money on storing the equipment during times when it's not needed.

Additionally, rental companies typically repair and maintaining the equipment. You won't have to hire yet another employee to take care of your fleet of cranes for you, letting you save money in the process.

Get Help with Permits

A third reason to rent a crane instead of purchasing one is rental companies will help you obtain the permits needed to operate the crane on your project. It's not unusual for local, state, and federal authorities (e.g. Department of Transportation) to require you to get permits to drive cranes on the public roads. Crane rental companies typically have good working relationships with the appropriate government agencies and can make the process of securing the needed permits and permissions much easier.

Crane rental companies are typically also able to help with road closures, traffic detours, and obtaining pilot or follow vehicles; all the things involved with setting up and using the crane at your project site.

Although it may be convenient to have your own crane on hand, taking advantage of rental options can save you more time, money, and hassle in the long run. To rent a crane for your next project, contact a local company.