Types of Construction Cranes – A Guide to the Lifting Machines That Build Florida
Whether you’re building a multi-story office, replacing rooftop HVAC, or lifting utility equipment, choosing the right crane is critical. Each job comes with different demands — from terrain to height to load weight. In this guide, we’ll break down various construction cranes types, what they’re used for, and why it matters.
At Premium Crane LLC, we help our clients choose the best lifting solution for their projects across Orlando, Daytona, Kissimmee, and throughout Central Florida.
1. Mobile Construction Cranes
Mobile cranes are the workhorses of Florida construction. Mounted on trucks or carriers, they can move from site to site and set up quickly.
We use mobile cranes for a wide range of projects including steel placement, equipment installation, and short-term infrastructure jobs. These cranes are versatile, efficient, and perfect for both urban and rural sites.
2. Tower Construction Cranes
You’ll spot these towering giants on most major high-rise projects. Tower cranes are anchored to the ground and offer massive lifting height and reach.
They’re used for vertical construction projects, especially in city centers where space is tight and heavy materials need to go up — fast. This makes tower cranes a staple among construction crane types.
While Premium Crane LLC does not operate tower cranes directly, we regularly work in support roles for sites using them — offering mobile lifts and operator support when needed.
3. Rough Terrain Cranes
As the name suggests, rough terrain cranes are built to handle off-road conditions. These cranes are mounted on four rubber tires and designed for uneven ground.
We use rough terrain cranes in locations where pavement is limited — such as industrial plants, utility access areas, or early-stage construction sites. Among the various construction crane types, they are particularly suited for challenging landscapes.
4. Crawler Cranes (FYI-only)
Crawler cranes run on tracks instead of wheels and are often used on long-term, heavy-duty projects. While we don’t rent or operate crawler cranes at Premium Crane LLC, we recognize their value on very large infrastructure builds, among other types of construction cranes.
If you’re unsure whether a mobile crane or crawler crane is right for your job, our team can consult and recommend the best direction.
5. Carry Deck Cranes (Small Lifts & Tight Spaces)
These compact cranes are ideal for indoor use or projects that require lifting and rotating loads in tight environments.
While not as common in large-scale outdoor projects, carry deck cranes are useful for warehouses, plants, and interior commercial work. They serve as niche players in various types of construction cranes.
How to Choose the Right Crane
Here’s what we consider when recommending crane types to clients:
- Load weight and lift height
- Ground conditions
- Site access and space constraints
- Duration of the lift
- Local safety and permitting requirements
If you’re unsure, that’s where we come in. Premium Crane LLC offers both equipment and expert guidance.
Need Help Picking the Right Crane? Let’s Talk.
At Premium Crane, we match equipment to project — not the other way around. Whether you’re managing a construction site in Orlando or scheduling a lift in Daytona, we’ll help you choose the right crane for the job.
Contact us today to ask questions, get a quote, or request a custom crane solution.