One of the most important factors you need to consider when hiring a crane is the location. Generally, the nearer the crane service provider is, the better option it would be. If your project is in Peterborough, it is more convenient choosing a company offering crane hire in Peterborough instead of choosing those in Fenland, Cambridge, Huntingdonshire, or other districts. There are clear advantages in hiring a crane that is in close proximity to your project site, as briefly discussed below.
Faster arrival of the equipment
Obviously, equipment from a nearer location will become available faster than equipment that has to be shipped from a farther away district or city. If you need equipment quickly, it only makes sense getting it from the nearest provider. Depending on the service contract, you may have to pay for the fuel used to bring the crane to your location. You will end up paying more if you have to haul the equipment from a distance.
On the other hand, it will be easier to return the equipment if there is no great distance involved. Bear in mind that some service contracts hold the customer responsible for the equipment before it has been officially returned. Imagine the possibilities of encountering accidents or other untoward incidents on the road. The longer the return transit takes, the more probable an accident. Paying for any damage to the equipment would definitely be an unwanted additional expense. Even if the damage is covered by insurance, it will also be inconvenient having to spend time dealing with the problem.
Faster replacement or troubleshooting
Not everything might go as expected. Even the equipment from the best crane service companies will have issues every once in a while. There will be instances when the crane has to be replaced entirely or will require troubleshooting or repairs. If the company providing the crane you are using is a couple or more cities away, it will take time to have your problem addressed. The worst case is the need to have your crane completely replaced. The crane sent to your site may not be suitable for the project or the terrain. It would be a major inconvenience and waste of time having it replaced.
Permits and licenses
Another very important detail to take into account is the permit as well as the licenses for the equipment you will be needing. There can be complications if you have to hire a crane from a different district. You need to ascertain that the equipment is licensed and you also have to deal with the permit for hauling the heavy equipment. You will also have to worry about getting clearance to pass by certain roads. Oversized trucks with heavy loads (carrying the crane) may not be allowed to pass along certain roads. You will have to find a new route to haul the crane, which can add to the time and cost it takes to get the equipment.
Except when you are assured of clear benefits in hiring a crane from a farther away company, it is recommended giving preference to local crane service providers. Nearer is generally cheaper; unless the cost difference is significant without a difference in reliability (as well as the competence of the operator).
