What are the classifications of truck-mounted cranes?

The term truck-mounted crane is certainly familiar in construction sites and large-scale projects. However, are you fully aware of how to distinguish and use this type of vehicle correctly? The article below will help you better understand the classification of truck-mounted cranes.

Classification by Load Capacity

To meet the needs of various project sizes, truck-mounted cranes are categorized by specific load capacities such as: 3 tons, 5 tons, 10 tons, 15 tons, and 25 tons.

In larger-scale operations, cranes with lifting capacities of up to 45 tons may be used.

  • Light-duty load capacity: from 1 to 5 tons (4×2 trucks)
  • Medium-duty load capacity: from 6 to 10 tons (4×2, 6×4 trucks)
  • Heavy-duty load capacity: over 10 tons (6×4, 8×4, 10×4 trucks)

Choosing a crane with the right load capacity is crucial for both safety and operational efficiency.

Using a crane that is too small for a heavy-duty truck or vice versa, a crane with a lifting capacity far exceeding the truck’s transport capacity may cause imbalance and affect performance.

Classification by Hydraulic Crane Structure

Based on hydraulic crane structure, truck-mounted cranes are categorized into two types: telescopic boom cranes and knuckle boom (articulated) cranes.

  • Telescopic boom truck-mounted crane: Known for its flexibility, it operates well in confined spaces and distributes load evenly across the truck’s axles, allowing for greater transport weight. Well-known brands include Unic, Tadano, Kanglim, Soosan, and Atom.
  • Knuckle boom (robotic articulated) truck-mounted crane: These cranes can be folded behind the cabin, saving space for cargo and are more commonly used in European and American markets. Popular brands include HYVA and Palfinger.

Classification by Usage

The primary function of a truck-mounted crane is to transport and lift goods. However, depending on the specific use case, these cranes are categorized accordingly:

  • Cranes for cargo transportation: Typically use large load trucks with 3, 4, or 5 axles, corresponding to 2-ton, 3-ton, or 5-ton cranes. Tractor trucks may also be paired with large knuckle boom cranes (8, 10, 12, or 15 tons).
  • Cranes for construction support and assembly: These often require higher lifting capacities, such as 7 tons, 10 tons, 12 tons, or 15 tons.

In addition to their main function, truck-mounted cranes can also be equipped with accessories like aerial work platforms, auger drills, clamshell buckets, or lifting forks transforming them into specialized vehicles.


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