Introduction: Planning a project that requires lifting heavy materials, moving machinery, or loading large items? A lorry crane is an indispensable piece of equipment, combining transport and lifting power in one vehicle. But a common question we hear at Nam Seng Cargo Gear is: “How much does it cost to hire one?” The answer is not a single figure, as it depends heavily on your specific needs. This 2025 guide will break down the key cost factors and give you a clear expectation of lorry crane hire rates in Singapore.

What is a Lorry Crane and Why Hire One?

A lorry crane, or crane truck, is a commercial lorry equipped with a hydraulic crane. Its key advantage is mobility and self-sufficiency—it can travel on public roads to your site and perform lifts without needing a separate trailer and mobile crane. Common projects that need a lorry crane include:

• Delivery and installation of heavy machinery (e.g., generators, CNCs).
• Loading/Unloading construction materials from a site.
• Port logistics and moving containerised equipment.
• Rigging services for complex lifts at multiple locations.

Key Factors That Determine Your Lorry Crane Hire Cost

Understanding these variables will help you understand your quote and potentially find ways to optimise costs.

1. Crane Capacity and Size (Tonnage)

This is the most significant cost driver. Larger cranes with higher lifting capacities command higher hire rates due to their higher capital cost and operational complexity.

• *Small (3 – 8 Tonne):* Ideal for light construction, logistics, and HVAC units. Most affordable option.
• *Medium (10 – 25 Tonne):* The workhorse for general machinery moving and mid-sized construction projects.
• *Large (30 – 100+ Tonne):* For heavy-duty industrial projects, major construction, and power generation equipment. Premium cost.

2. Hire Duration

The hire period (e.g., hourly, daily, weekly, monthly) significantly impacts the rate. Longer hires typically have a lower cost-per-day.

• Hourly/Daily Rates: Best for quick, single-day projects.
• Weekly/Monthly Rates: More cost-effective for long-term projects like construction, where the crane is needed on standby.

3. Site Location and Conditions

Is the site easily accessible? Complexities like tight spaces, overhead obstructions, soft ground, or needing traffic management will require more time and potentially a more experienced operator, affecting the final cost.

4. Additional Services and Equipment

The base hire rate often just covers the crane and a certified operator. You may need additional cargo lashing equipment and services, which will be itemised:

• Rigging Team: A separate team to handle slinging and load guidance.
• Lifting Equipment: Shackles, slings, and wire ropes.
• Transport Permits: If the load is oversized, special permits from the LTA may be required.

Estimated Lorry Crane Hire Cost Ranges in Singapore (2025)

Please note: These are estimated market ranges. Always get a formal quote for your exact project.

Crane Capacity	Ideal For	Estimated Rate (ex. GST)
Small (3 – 8 Tonne)	Logistics, small goods delivery	$250 – $450 / per day
Medium (10 – 25 Tonne)	Machinery moving, construction	$500 – $1,200 / per day
Large (30 – 50 Tonne)	Industrial projects, heavy lifts	$1,500 – $3,000+ / per day

*Rates can vary based on the factors listed above. Hourly rates are also available but are often structured around a minimum call-out charge (e.g., 4-5 hours).*

Why Your Choice of Hire Partner Matters

The cheapest quote isn’t always the best value. When hiring heavy equipment, safety and reliability are paramount.

• Certification and Insurance: Ensure the company provides equipment that is regularly inspected and certified, and carries full liability insurance.
• Operator Expertise: A skilled, certified crane operator is crucial for a safe and efficient lift.
• Transparent Pricing: A reputable company like Nam Seng Cargo Gear will provide a detailed, all-inclusive quote with no hidden fees.

Conclusion: Hiring a lorry crane in Singapore is a cost-effective solution for a wide range of projects. The final price depends on the crane size, hire period, and site-specific requirements. Ready to get an accurate quote for your project? Contact Nam Seng Cargo Gear today. Our team will discuss your needs, recommend the right size lorry crane, and provide you with a transparent, competitive quote. We don’t just hire equipment; we provide complete crane solutions backed by safety and expertise.