Choosing the right lifting equipment can make or break a jobsite—especially in Middle Tennessee, where terrain, access, and safety are top concerns. At Upper Cumberland Crane, LLC, we regularly explain to clients why a crane is a smarter choice than a boom truck in many scenarios.
While both machines lift heavy loads, they serve different purposes. In this post, we'll walk through the critical differences and guide you in deciding whether a crane or boom truck suits your project best.
What's a Boom Truck? Here's the Basics
A boom truck—also called a bucket or boom-style lift—is typically a truck-mounted crane with limited reach and load capacity. These machines are excellent for:
- Lifting workers to heights for service or minor installs
- Reasonable loads, typically under 5,000 lbs
- Jobs with limited swing and simple vertical lifting
- Service crews like HVAC technicians, electricians, or sign maintenance
In Upper Cumberland, boom trucks are common during maintenance or light installation tasks in Cookeville and nearby towns. But once the lift gets heavy, high, or precise—you’ll need a mobile crane.
When a Crane Is the Right Choice
You’ll want a crane instead of a boom truck if your job includes:
1. Lifting Heavy or Bulky Loads
Steel beams, rooftop HVAC units, trusses, and pool shells far exceed boom truck limits. Cranes handle heavier weights—up to multiple tons.
2. High-Reach Lifts
Boom trucks max out around 40–60 ft. Cranes—especially truck-mounted models used by Upper Cumberland Crane—can reach much higher, over buildings and trees.
3. Precision Placement
If you need inch-perfect positioning—such as aligning steel members or placing trusses—a crane’s stability and load control win every time. Boom trucks can sway and lack precision.
4. Tight Access Over Obstacles
Crane booms can swing or extend over fences, rooftops, and other barriers. Boom trucks are limited—you may need extra equipment to clear obstacles.
5. Repetitive Lifts or Multi-Load Jobs
A crane can handle multiple lifts efficiently. Boom trucks are built for occasional lifts, not full-day or full-project work.
How We Choose the Right Equipment for You
At Upper Cumberland Crane, LLC, we don’t just bring a crane because we have one. We tailor the equipment recommendation based on:
- Load specs (weight, dimensions)
- Lift height and reach required
- Site access, terrain, and barriers
- Safety considerations like power lines or slope
- Project timeline and efficiency needs
This consultative approach ensures your project uses the most practical and cost-effective solution—and with no surprises on-site.
Local Examples: Middle TN Lifts Where Cranes Shine
- Rooftop HVAC installs in Cookeville buildings: Boom trucks won’t reach, but cranes can set units without disrupting interior work.
- Steel erection for rural barns near Sparta: Heavy I‑beams and tight ground conditions demand crane stability.
- Hot tub installs in fenced or landscaped yards: Crane lifts from the driveway ensure no hazard or cleanup.
- Billboard installations on highway corridors: Large steel frames require precision only a crane can provide.
In each case, choosing a crane is the difference between a smooth job and a challenging one.