If you have never hired a crane before, the idea of coordinating a lift can feel overwhelming. Whether you are a builder, project manager, or homeowner managing a residential lift, knowing what to expect on lift day can make all the difference. From safety checks to site setup and lift execution, each stage is planned with precision.At Green Cranes, we believe that a well-informed client is a confident client. This guide breaks down the crane hire process, so you know exactly what happens — from the moment we arrive on site to the final pack down.
Why Lift Day Preparation Matters
A successful lift is not just about the crane — it is about preparation, timing and teamwork. Any delays or miscommunication on lift day can result in extended hire time, added costs or unnecessary risks. Understanding how crane hire works helps you prepare your site, your team and your timeline. Whether you are lifting air conditioning units, steel beams, trusses, pool shells or construction materials, our team ensures everything is safely planned and executed with minimal disruption.
Step-by-Step: The Crane Hire Process on Lift Day
Here is what you can expect when you book a lift with Green Cranes:
1. Arrival and Site Induction
Our crane and crew will arrive at the scheduled time, typically early morning to maximise daylight. We begin with a site induction, meeting with your site supervisor or manager to confirm access, conditions, lifting zones and safety procedures.
All crew will be in PPE
Safety documentation and licences will be presented
Traffic control or road closures (if required) will already be in place
Tip: Make sure the site is clear of obstructions and ready for the crane to access the lift zone.
2. Setup and Crane Positioning
Positioning the crane is one of the most critical parts of the process. The crane must be placed on stable, level ground to ensure safe lifting. Outriggers will be deployed, mats may be used to protect the surface and weight distribution will be checked.The team will block off exclusion zones
Communication protocols will be established between the dogman, rigger and operator
All equipment is double-checked before the lift begins
Tip: Ensure other trades or deliveries are not scheduled in the same area during the lift window.
3. Pre-Lift Safety Checks
Before the first lift, a final series of checks are completed:Load weight and centre of gravity are confirmedRigging equipment is inspected and testedWeather conditions (wind speed, visibility) are assessedAll personnel are briefed on the lift sequence and signals
At Green Cranes, safety is our number one priority. Every lift is carried out in full compliance with industry regulations and WorkSafe requirements.
4. Executing the Lift
Once everything is approved, the lift begins.The dogman communicates directly with the crane operatorLoads are lifted slowly and steadily, avoiding swing or shock loadingEach movement is controlled and monitored from multiple angles
Depending on the complexity, a lift may take a few minutes or several hours. Our team works efficiently while maintaining maximum control and safety.
Tip: Have your crew or contractors ready to receive and secure the load on the delivery point to avoid delays.
5. Pack Down and Site Clearance
After the lift or series of lifts is completed, the crane is demobilised. This includes:Retracting outriggers and packing up gear
Ensuring the site is clean and safe
Completing post-lift paperwork if required
Confirming all equipment and assets have been delivered correctly
Our team leaves your site exactly how we found it — clear, safe and ready for the next stage of your project.
FAQs: Common Questions About Lift Day
Q: How early should I book the crane?
A: As early as possible — at least one to two weeks in advance, especially if traffic control or permits are required.
Q: Can you help with permits and road closures?
A: Yes. Green Cranes can organise traffic management, permits and liaise with councils if your lift impacts public access.
Q: What if the weather is bad?
A: We monitor conditions closely. For high wind or heavy rain, lifts may need to be rescheduled for safety.
Q: Do I need to provide lifting gear?
A: No — we bring all required lifting gear including slings, spreader bars and shackles.
Local Expertise Across Sydney Suburbs
Green Cranes proudly services a wide range of suburbs across Sydney, providing expert crane hire and lift coordination for residential and commercial clients. Whether you are in Castle Hill, Penrith, Parramatta, Blacktown, Rouse Hill, Box Hill, Seven Hills, Quakers Hill, Kellyville, Marsden Park, Schofields, The Ponds, Norwest, or Riverstone, we ensure your lift is handled with precision, safety and care.
We understand the local regulations, site access challenges and construction requirements unique to each region. With mobile cranes and tight-access specialists like our Cranky Crane GC002, we are equipped to handle projects of all sizes and conditions.
Book With Confidence
At Green Cranes, we are not just crane operators — we are your lifting partners. From lift day preparation to final sign-off, our experienced team is committed to delivering safe, efficient and stress-free crane hire services across Sydney.
Book Your Lift or Request a Free Quote today and let us help you plan your next project with confidence.
