Crane rental cost in Boston depends mostly on the size of the crane, how long it is on site, how hard the setup is, and whether you need permits or a police detail. Most crane service is quoted with an operator, and the time usually counts from when the crane leaves the yard until it gets back. A clear plan is the best way to keep the cost down.
There is no single price for “a crane,” because no two lifts are the same. Here is what goes into a crane quote, so you know what to expect and how to avoid surprises.
What goes into the price
The size of the crane
Bigger cranes cost more to run, move and set up. The size you need depends on the weight of the load, how far it has to reach and how high it goes. Picking the right size is the biggest factor in the price. See What Size Crane Do I Need? for how that works.
Time on site
Crane work is usually billed by the hour, often with a minimum. Travel time to and from the job, setup and breakdown all count. A lift that is ready to go when the crane arrives costs much less than one where the crew is waiting.
Setup and site conditions
A flat, open driveway is quick to set up on. A narrow city street, soft ground, a slope or overhead wires all take more time and planning. Some sites need mats under the outriggers or a special setup plan.
Rigging and crew
Heavy or awkward loads may need spreader bars, special slings or extra riggers and signal people. Your quote should say who supplies the rigging and who is on the crew.
Permits, police details and traffic
If the crane sets up on a public street or sidewalk in Boston, you usually need a street occupancy permit and may need a police detail. Those costs are part of the total even if they are paid separately. Read Do You Need a Permit for a Crane in Boston? for details.
Timing
Early mornings, weekends and nights are sometimes required in the city to keep streets open. Ask whether your date or time changes the rate.
Dave’s tip
The single best way to save on a crane is to be ready. Have the unit or material on site, the landing spot cleared, and your crew standing by before the crane pulls up.
How to get an accurate quote
- The address and a photo of where the crane can set up.
- What is being lifted and its weight, or a spec sheet.
- Where it has to go and how high.
- Anything in the way: wires, trees, buildings.
- The date, the time window and how many picks.
Questions to ask any crane company
- Is the operator included, and is the operator licensed?
- When does the time start and stop?
- Is there a minimum number of hours?
- Who supplies the rigging?
- Who handles permits and the police detail?
- Are you insured, and can you send a certificate?
In Massachusetts, crane operators must hold a state hoisting license. A professional crane company will be happy to show you their license and insurance.
Why the cheapest crane is not always the cheapest job
A crane that is too small for the job can’t finish it, and a second crane means a second bill. A crane that shows up late keeps your whole crew waiting. Matching the right machine to the job, and showing up on time, is what keeps a lift on budget. That is how we have worked for over 40 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the crane operator included in the price?
For crane service, yes, usually. The quote should say so. Renting a crane without an operator, called a bare rental, is a different kind of agreement.
Do I pay for travel time?
Most crane companies bill from the time the crane leaves the yard until it returns. Ask how your quote handles it.
Can I get a price over the phone?
We can often give you a good idea once we know the load, the distances and the site. An exact quote needs the details or a quick look at the site.
Is it cheaper to rent a crane by the day?
For long jobs with many lifts, a day rate can make sense. For one or two picks, an hourly rate with a minimum is usually less.
Want a price for your lift? Request a free quote with the details and photos, and we will get back to you quickly.
