Write one common scope.
Identify the number and type of poles, attachments, foundations and installation locations. Separate mobilisation, staging, lifting and the remaining installation tasks. If one proposal includes a larger work package, account for the missing activities in the other before comparing totals.
Resolve suitability before economics.
For the volvet equipment, the source sheet lists a 12 m pole class and a 300 kg rated load. Neither number alone confirms the pole, flange, foundation or site. A crane-based method also needs a project-specific proposal and assessment. Where the pole-lifter configuration cannot be confirmed, a cheaper cost scenario does not make it suitable.
Collect comparable costs.
For each method, collect project mobilisation and transport, equipment or rental charges, crew size, full-scope crew hours and other recurring costs. Divide a project fixed fee by the poles in that project once. Keep equipment purchase separate from recurring project cost when assessing payback.
Leave unresolved choices open.
A project may need a crane or another assessed method when the load, foundation, connections or site conditions fall outside a confirmed pole-lifter configuration. This page supplies no universal threshold for those conditions. Ask the responsible project team to resolve the method using the actual drawings and reviewed instructions.
Equipment comparison
Four ways to compare.
Consider cost, access, workflow and power across the same project scope.
| Decision dimension | Portable pole lifter | Mobile truck crane |
|---|---|---|
| Cost & equipment | Owned equipment: include transport, crew time, energy and maintenance in each project estimate. Compare full project costs in the calculator. | Rented equipment: include mobilisation, rental days and the quoted crew scope. |
| Access & footprint | 85 kg split system: 45 kg hydraulic module and 40 kg electrical cabinet for separate transport. Plan the route from delivery point to pole base. | Check vehicle access, turning space and the working footprint in the crane proposal. |
| Crew & workflow | The sheet lists 1–2 operators and a reported 20 s lift stroke. Allow time for connection, alignment and fastening. Measure complete installation time for both methods. | Agree the lifting, signalling and installation tasks with the crane contractor. |
| Power & scheduling | 24 V rechargeable battery. The manufacturer reports >50 lifts per full charge. Plan charging and work volume before dispatch. | Include fuel, operator availability and mobilisation in the project schedule. |
Compare the complete assembly, base connection and work area before selecting a method. Use full project costs in the calculator.
Bring the information you have.
Unknown details can be flagged for follow-up. A request starts the configuration review; it does not approve the equipment for use.
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