To move heavy equipment around your construction site, you need a crane, but what type of crane? As a small construction firm, you likely don't have a crane on hand, and as a result, you have to rent a crane instead. However, the decision is often whether you should rent an operated crane or unoperated crane. If you're not sure of the difference, learn more about the options so you can make the right choice. 

Operated vs. Unoperated

The difference between an operated and unoperated crane rental is quite simple. An operated rental is one that comes along with an operator for the crane provided by the rental company. Simply inform the operator of what you need to be done and they will perform the steps for you. An unoperated rental is one that only comes with the crane and leaves the task of finding an operator up to you.

Making a Decision

Which option is best for your small firm is a decision you should make based on several factors; here are some of them.

Experience

How much experience your crew has is an important factor to consider when you need to determine whether or not you need an operated or unoperated crane. To keep things simple, if you don't have anyone on the team with experience operating a crane — you need an operated crane. Attempting to operate the crane without the right experience is an accident waiting to happen. 

Level of Activity

Another factor to consider is just how much you need to use the crane for the project. For instance, if you only need to rely on the crane for one task, such as installing a barrier, it might make more sense to rent an operated crane. However, if you have multiple tasks that you need to complete over the course of several days, an unoperated crane might make more sense. 

Insurance

Another important factor to consider in the decision-making process is the amount of insurance you have. To operate a crane on your worksite, you must have a certain amount of insurance. If you do not have the required amount, you don't want to risk losing your permit by operating the crane anyway. It's best to rent an operated crane that comes with its own, separate insurance package. 

The difference between getting the job done easily, and safely, is often the difference between knowing when to choose an operated or unoperated crane rental. Take your time to make the right choice when looking at construction equipment.