carry decks

Carry Deck Crane FAQs

1 What is a Carry Deck crane, and how does it function?

A Carry Deck crane is a compact, mobile crane with a rotating boom centered on a flat deck. It’s designed for lifting and transporting materials in tight or indoor spaces. Key features include:

• 360° rotating boom for precise load placement
• Low-profile design for overhead clearance
• Deck surface for short-distance material hauling

2 What are the typical lifting capacities for these cranes?

Carry Deck cranes generally lift between 8 and 15 tons. At Active Crane, we offer 8.5-ton and 15-ton models with boom reaches up to 50 feet.

These cranes are ideal for small to mid-sized jobs that require lifting in tight areas where larger cranes aren’t practical. Their compact size and power make them a reliable solution for short-range lifting and transport tasks.

3 What industries and job types benefit most from Carry Deck cranes?

Industries that operate in confined or indoor spaces benefit most from Carry Deck cranes. These include industrial plants, mechanical contractors, warehouses, utilities, and steel shops.
They’re perfect for:

• Lifting HVAC units
• Relocating materials
• Working in areas with low overhead clearance

Their compact design allows them to perform essential lifts in spaces where traditional cranes cannot operate effectively.

4 How do Carry Deck cranes compare to other compact lifting solutions?

Carry Deck cranes offer more versatility than forklifts or small boom trucks. They combine lifting power, short-range transport, and full boom rotation in a single machine.

Unlike rough terrain cranes, they’re ideal for smooth, level surfaces. Their ability to lift and move loads simultaneously, along with quick setup, makes them a preferred option for indoor or restricted-access environments.

5 What are the primary advantages of using a Carry Deck crane?

Carry Deck cranes are compact, easy to maneuver, and highly functional.

They can lift and transport loads with just one machine, saving time and equipment costs. Their rotating boom allows for precise load placement, and the flat deck can carry materials around the site.

They’re quick to set up, ideal for tight workspaces, and perfect for light industrial and maintenance jobs.

6 What are the safety and maintenance considerations?

Safe operation includes checking load charts, inspecting hydraulic systems, and operating on level ground. 

Certified operators should perform pre-use inspections and remain alert to obstacles like overhead structures.

Regular maintenance—checking fluids, tires, and boom components—ensures reliability. Following proper safety procedures and staying within capacity limits is critical for avoiding accidents and extending the life of the equipment.

7 Are there any limitations or restrictions on their use?

Carry Deck cranes work best on smooth, level surfaces and aren’t suited for rough or uneven terrain. Their lifting capacity and boom reach are limited compared to larger cranes. Outdoor use is restricted in poor weather or soft ground. 

Despite these limits, they’re extremely effective in indoor environments and controlled job sites where space and mobility are key concerns.