Choosing the right overhead crane isn't as easy as taking the first one that you find available. The overhead crane that's right for your facility will depend on several factors. Here are a few of the factors that will help you narrow your options.
1. Consider Your Warehouse Size and Layout
An overhead crane and its setup can take up a lot of space. You need to know how much space you have to work with inside your warehouse. Take into account all dimensions of the space.
Also, pay close attention to potential space limitations. For example, no matter the height of your space, you'll have to consider any obstructions, such as fans, that may limit how high an overhead crane can go. An overhead crane also requires clearance space above and around it.
Warehouse operations can also represent an obstacle to crane placement. The operation of the crane should not occur close to other warehouse activities that can interfere with it.
If you want to install a permanent or semi-permanent bridge crane, you must ensure your warehouse's structure can support it. Some crane types come with specific structural requirements your facility must meet before attempting an installation. This isn't usually the case for portable crane options. However, portable options have designs geared towards flexibility of use, rather than constant, heavy duty.
2. Consider How You Plan to Use the Crane in Your Warehouse
Some overhead cranes do better with certain materials than others. The application you plan to use the crane for will dictate which type of crane will work best.
For example, if you're only lifting occasional loads of a particular type, then you can use an overhead crane with a lower classification. If you plan to make regular lifts every day over the course of your operations, then a higher class of crane will make more sense.
Because of this, overhead crane classifications will represent how much a crane can lift and how often a crane can lift a load of a particular weight. Even knowing the classification of crane your warehouse needs, you'll still have further decisions to make.
3. Consider Where You Purchase Your Crane From
One of the greatest factors in making an overhead crane decision for your warehouse is which dealer you do business with. A professional overhead crane service will help you figure out what type of cranes will work best for your warehouse operations. Quality, expertise, and reputation count when it comes to choosing an overhead crane. Purchase yours from a reputable dealer.