A used crane or construction machine often costs a fraction of a new one and is usually available right away. To make the purchase pay off, check a few points beforehand. This checklist sums up the most important ones.
The checklist in 8 steps.
- 01
Define the job and requirements
Which loads must be lifted how far and how high? Where will the machine work – on roads, off-road, indoors or in city centres? Capacity, outreach, lift height and location determine which type and size fits. A crane that is too small limits your jobs, one that is too large costs more to buy and to move.
- 02
Year, hours and mileage
Compare year, crane and engine operating hours and, for mobile cranes and trucks, the mileage. Few hours on an old machine can point to long idle periods, while many hours with good maintenance are often fine. What matters is that the figures fit the overall picture of the machine.
- 03
Check the documents
Ask for the crane logbook, records of periodic safety inspections, load charts, operating manual, maintenance records and the vehicle papers. Complete documents make registration, the next inspection and a later resale easier.
- 04
Inspect the technical condition
Look for cracks, deformation and welds on boom and frame, smooth extension and retraction of telescopic sections, leaks on hydraulic cylinders and hoses, ropes, winches and hook, outriggers, and tyres, axles, brakes and steering. For aerial platforms add batteries and basket controls, for forklifts mast, chains and forks.
- 05
Test the safety systems
The load moment limiter (LMI) and all limit switches must work, and fault memories should be read out. Also check the emergency stop, warning devices and – if fitted – radio remote control and camera systems.
- 06
Viewing and test run
If possible, see the machine running: start the engine cold, run through all movements, listen for noises and watch for smoke. If the journey is too far, a live video tour lets you ask to see specific details.
- 07
Plan transport, customs and export
Clarify transport dimensions and weight early, whether a permitted heavy transport is needed and which papers are required for export. Deliveries outside the EU also need customs and export documents.
- 08
Price, tax and purchase contract
Dealer prices are usually net plus VAT. A delivery to a business in another EU country with a valid VAT number is generally tax-exempt. Record machine, accessories, condition, handover and payment in a written purchase contract.