Do You Know the History of Your “Recycled” Crane?

Do You Know the History of Your "Recycled" Crane?

How would you define a “recycled” crane? At Lifting Systems, we believe a recycled crane should mean the raw materials have been melted down to manufacture a new steel frame that complies fully with today’s standards, is fit for purpose, and free from defects or wear from its previous use. Additionally, hoists and motors should come with full refurbishment histories and documentation, or better yet, be replaced with new ones.

The Reality of Recycled Cranes

Unfortunately, what we often encounter in the market falls far short of this ideal. Many recycled cranes consist of extremely old steel frames with no history provided, paired with hoists and drives dating back to the 1990s. The safety risks associated with these cranes are significant. We’ve seen cranes stored outdoors for extended periods, exposed to the elements, then given a superficial coat of paint and re-installed without a proper assessment of their condition.

The Hidden Costs of Low Prices

The appeal of recycled cranes often lies in their lower upfront cost. However, the real price can be far greater. Consider these potential consequences:

  • Safety risks: Serious injury or even loss of life among colleagues
  • Maintenance issues: Expensive repair bills due to substandard components
  • Obsolete parts: Difficulty sourcing replacements for outdated equipment
  • Operational disruptions: Extended downtime and loss of productivity

Once a recycled crane is installed, the responsibility for its condition and safety falls entirely on the customer, not the company that sold it. Many buyers are unaware of the significant liabilities they assume with such purchases.

What to Ask Before Buying

We urge customers to take a proactive approach during the buying process. If the price of a recycled crane is significantly lower than other quotes, ask critical questions:

  • What is the crane’s history and usage?
  • How old is the equipment?
  • What is the design working period?
  • Can the seller provide physical proof that the crane is fit for purpose?

These questions can uncover potential red flags and help you make a safer, more informed decision. Taking this step may one day save lives and protect your business from costly consequences.

At Lifting Systems, we are committed to providing transparent information and ensuring that all our equipment meets the highest safety and performance standards. When it comes to lifting solutions, quality and safety should never be compromised.

If your business is looking to invest in a new overhead crane and gantry system, buying new from Lifting Systems may not be as costly as you think. For a no-obligation quote, why not give our sales team a call on 01604 766777 or email us at sales@lifting-systems.co.uk?