HIAB hire cost in the UK varies considerably depending on the vehicle type, crane size, distance, job duration and whether you need a same-day or planned booking. This guide explains the main factors that affect these prices and gives you a realistic picture of what to expect.
The primary factors that affect the cost are the crane and vehicle type, the duration of the hire, the distance involved, the complexity of the lift and the notice given. A rigid HIAB on a straightforward local delivery costs substantially less than a HIAB 858 artic travelling from Manchester to London with a heavy industrial lift at the other end. Understanding which of these factors apply to your job is the starting point for understanding the cost.
Crane size is the single biggest variable in the pricing. A HIAB 558 on an 18-tonne rigid is the most affordable option. A HIAB 858 on a 44-tonne artic is the most expensive. The HIAB 658 and 858 fall between these extremes. For most construction material deliveries — steel beams, block packs, cabin placements — a HIAB 558 or 658 will be sufficient and will represent better value.
Hire is most commonly quoted on a day rate basis — typically covering an 8–10 hour working day including the driver and operator. For shorter jobs, an hourly rate or a fixed price per job may be agreed. For regular contract work — steel deliveries, container collections, site servicing — a contracted rate per journey or per week often gives significantly better value than repeat one-off bookings.
For same-day or very short-notice HIAB hire, a premium typically applies — particularly if the job requires redeployment of a vehicle from another booking. Planning ahead and booking 24–48 hours in advance where possible reduces the cost.
A standard hire price includes the vehicle, crane, driver and operator (often the same person on smaller vehicles), fuel and insurance for normal commercial cargo. VAT applies at the standard rate. For abnormal loads requiring permits, escort or traffic management, these costs are additional and should be discussed and agreed before booking. Standby time — where the vehicle is on site but not working — may be charged if it exceeds an agreed threshold.
The most effective way to get the best price is to be specific about your requirements. Know your load weight, the crane reach you need, the delivery address and the access constraints. With this information, we can quote the right vehicle for your job — not the biggest one — and you avoid paying for more crane than you need. For regular work, ask about contract rates. For multiple deliveries on the same day or route, discuss multi-drop pricing.
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