Successful Hiab hire starts before the vehicle reaches site. Whether a load is moving within Preston, elsewhere in Lancashire or to another part of the UK, early checks help identify the right lorry, crane reach and lifting arrangements.
Confirm the load details
Record the load's weight, length, width and height. If the manufacturer provides lifting instructions, share them with the transport team. Photographs from several angles are useful, especially when they show lifting points, the space around the item and anything that may prevent the crane from working close to it.
Check access at both addresses
A Hiab vehicle needs sufficient road width, turning space and room to deploy its stabilisers. Check gates, parked vehicles, low branches, bridges, weight restrictions and tight corners. At the delivery point, confirm where the load will be placed and whether the vehicle can stop in a suitable position without blocking unsafe areas.
The required reach is measured from the crane's likely working position, not simply from the gate or kerb. A wall, fence, excavation or landscaped area may mean the load must travel farther through the air than expected.
Consider the ground and surroundings
Stabilisers place significant loads onto the ground. Tell the operator about cellars, drains, soft verges, recently filled ground or hidden services. Overhead cables and nearby structures must also be identified in advance. Some jobs may require a site visit, lift plan, risk assessment or method statement.
Plan the timing
Agree site contacts and opening times at collection and delivery. If access depends on moving other vehicles, unlocking a compound or coordinating site staff, make those arrangements before the lorry arrives.
Our dedicated Preston Hiab hire page explains the services available locally. To discuss a particular load, send whatever details you have through our quote form.
