Moving heavy machinery — whether a production line machine, a large generator or an agricultural implement — requires more than just a big lorry. It requires a vehicle that can get close enough to the final installation point and place the load precisely, which is exactly what a HIAB crane truck does.
Pre-Move Planning
Before any machinery move, we need to know the weight, dimensions and centre of gravity of the load. Manufacturer specifications usually include this data; for older or bespoke machinery, a site visit to assess the load and lift points may be needed. We also need to know the route from the lorry parking position to the machine's final installed location — both at collection and delivery.
Rigging Heavy Machinery
Machinery should only be lifted from designated lift points — typically cast-in lifting eyes, machined lugs or structural frames. Lifting from pipework, shafts, motor housings or non-structural brackets can cause damage or catastrophic rigging failure. Our operators will identify correct lift points and will not attempt a lift if the rigging is unsafe.
Common Machinery Types
We regularly move CNC machining centres and lathes (2–25 tonnes), industrial compressors and generators (500kg–15 tonnes), water treatment and pump sets, printing presses, food processing equipment and agricultural machinery including tractors, combines and specialist implements. For each type, the rigging approach differs and our team is experienced across all sectors.
Positioning at the Final Location
Many machinery installations require placement on a prepared plinth, within a machine pad boundary, or aligned with adjacent equipment. Our crane operators are skilled at precise positioning — lowering slowly, using guide ropes to control swing, and making fine adjustments until the customer is satisfied with the placement.
Visit our machinery transport page or call 0330 175 8197.
