Every HIAB job is different, so every HIAB quote is different. Here we explain the key factors that determine the cost of HIAB hire — and how to get a fast, accurate price for your job.
Unlike hiring a van or a scaffold tower, HIAB hire involves a certified operator, a specialist vehicle, and a planned operation with safety implications. No two jobs are the same.
A portable cabin drop onto a clear construction site in central Manchester is a very different job from placing a rooftop HVAC unit on a city-centre building with restricted access and overhead cables. Both require a HIAB — but the planning, the model required, the time on site, and the risk assessment are completely different.
That is why we quote every job individually. When you call us, we will ask a few straightforward questions about your lift, and in most cases we can give you a clear price during that conversation. There are no hidden charges and no surprises on your invoice.
When we assess your job, these are the main factors we consider when putting your price together.
Our fleet ranges from compact HIAB 558 models to the extended long-reach 858. Larger, more powerful models with greater reach capacity involve more resource. We will always recommend the right model for your job — not the most expensive one.
We are based in Miles Platting, Manchester. For North West jobs we can mobilise quickly and cost-effectively. National jobs involve greater travel time and mileage, which is reflected in the price. We cover the whole of the UK and quote transparently on travel costs.
A straightforward container drop-off is quick to plan and execute. A multi-stage lift over obstacles, a rooftop placement, or a job requiring repositioning the vehicle mid-operation takes more time and operator expertise — and is priced accordingly.
Some jobs are completed in under an hour. Others require the HIAB to remain on site for a half-day or full day. We factor in realistic time estimates for your job type and communicate this clearly in your quote.
Restricted access, low bridges, narrow lanes, urban locations with overhead cables, or sites requiring road closures all add planning time. We carry out a site assessment for complex jobs and ensure all necessary arrangements are made before we arrive.
Wide loads and abnormal loads require Highways England permits and, in some cases, police or traffic management escorts. Where permits are required, we handle the process on your behalf. Permit costs are included transparently in your quote.
For the vast majority of lifts — deliveries, placements, container movements, plant haulage — HIAB hire is significantly more cost-effective than a conventional mobile or static crane.
A traditional crane must be transported to your site on a low loader, erected or set up, then dismantled and transported away. Each of those steps has a cost. A HIAB crane is mounted directly on our truck. It drives to your site, lifts, and drives away. There is no separate transport cost for the crane equipment itself.
HIAB hire also mobilises faster — sometimes same-day for urgent requirements — which reduces your project downtime.
Where a HIAB is not sufficient — very heavy loads, very high lifts, multi-crane operations — we will tell you honestly and advise accordingly. We would rather give you the right advice than the wrong vehicle.
We make quoting simple. Here is what we need from you to give you a clear, all-in price.
The nature of the load — a container, a piece of plant, a portable cabin, building materials — determines the HIAB model we recommend. Weight and dimensions help us confirm the right vehicle.
Collection and delivery addresses, the date you need us on site, and any time constraints you have. For North West jobs we can often move within 24 hours. We will give you a realistic timescale.
If the site has restrictions — narrow roads, low bridges, height barriers, overhead cables, slopes — tell us. We would rather know in advance than discover issues on site. Most access challenges have a solution.
We give you a clear price with no obligation. If you are happy, we book it in. If you have questions, we answer them. No pressure, no pushy follow-ups. Just straightforward professional service.
We quote per job. We give you an all-in price for your specific requirement rather than an hourly rate that can escalate unpredictably. You know what you are paying before we start.
We work regularly with many portable cabin hire companies, construction contractors, event companies and facilities managers. If you have ongoing or repeat requirements, call us to discuss how we can best support your operation.
Our quotes are all-inclusive for the job as described. If the scope changes on site — for example, additional lifts are required, or access is different from what was described — we will discuss any variation with you before proceeding. We do not add charges without your agreement.
No. Our entire fleet is Euro VI compliant, which means we can access all UK Clean Air Zones and the London ULEZ without incurring daily charges. There are no CAZ surcharges on your invoice.
Yes. Call us on 0330 107 9400 and tell us about your job. In many cases we can give you a firm quote during the call. For more complex or long-distance jobs we may ask for photos or site details before confirming the price, but we will always give you a fast response.
Full HIAB crane hire with CPCS-certified operators. Models 558 to 858 for lifts of all sizes across Manchester, the North West and nationwide.
Extended-reach capability for rooftop installations, over-obstacle lifts and restricted-access sites where standard reach is insufficient.
Tell us about your job and we will give you a fast, clear, all-in price. No obligation, no hidden charges. Call 0330 107 9400 or use our online form.
Call our team now for a fast, no-obligation quote. We operate across the whole of the UK — North West, Yorkshire, Midlands, Scotland, Wales and beyond.
