In Pursuit of Curb Appeal

When you'd like to expand your construction business but don't own all the equipment you'd need to compete with larger companies, being able to lease machines can be a smart solution. Being able to lease cranes, for example, can permit you to take on more lucrative work than you've had before, which will only lead to bigger and better things. However, because leasing cranes is new to you, you're going to need the guidance you'll get from these questions.

Can the Leasing Company Send Out a Technician or Representative First?

You may have some idea of what type and size crane you'd like to rent, but to avoid spending money and time to have the leased crane arrive only to be sent away for another model, you might need help. For that reason, ask if the leasing company can send someone to your site for a quick consultation period so that they can advise you about which machine could work out best.

Who Will Operate It?

Even if you already know that you have some employees who have suitable licensing credentials and can step into the crane without a problem, you may not want to do a so-called "bare rental" in which an operator is not provided for you. Being able to count on the operator that a leasing company provides will allow your own employees to continue their regular work, but it will also enable you to have the benefit of someone who is familiar with the machine you'll be leasing.

Do I Have a Plan?

It's not enough that you lease a crane for the work onsite you have to do. You also need to ensure that everyone is working efficiently to cut down on additional leasing fees that can accrue for using the crane longer than you expect. That means you need a clear, executable plan.

For example, if you know the crane and operator will show up on Monday morning, that means that you need to have the area cleared and people should be out of the area before they arrive. You should have a load plan in place that you can explain to the operator so that they clearly understand what is to be lifted. That load should already be ready; no one should be scrambling to find out where the load is or finishing up last minute work while the crane sits idle.

These questions are important if you want to have a successful crane lease period. Work with the leasing company, like Iaconelli Contracting, to come up with appropriate terms that you're satisfied with.