WILBANKS CRANE BLOG

Discover articles covering oil field crane services, heavy lifting cranes, crane rentals, crane leasing, and crane companies serving Roswell, NM, Midland, TX, Pecos, TX, West Texas, and the Permian Basin. Our content explores crane applications in oil and gas operations, construction projects, equipment transportation, rig support, and large-scale industrial lifting throughout the region.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Renting a Crane

If your project involves heavy lifting, renting a crane is usually the most practical and cost-effective choice. No matter if you’re working on an oilfield, a pipeline, an industrial site, or a large commercial build, having the right crane helps your project stay safe and on schedule.

Most companies don’t rent cranes very often, so it’s easy to miss important details that can cause delays, extra costs, safety issues, or other problems. At Wilbanks Crane, we’ve helped customers throughout the Permian Basin in Texas and New Mexico for years, supporting some of the toughest oil and gas projects. We’ve seen what can go wrong when projects aren’t ready for crane work.

If you’re getting ready to rent a crane, here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

 

Choosing a Crane Based on Price Alone

Everyone wants to keep costs down, but choosing a crane rental only because it is the cheapest can end up costing much more over time.

Each project needs the right lifting capacity, boom length, setup, and support equipment. If you rent a cheaper crane that does not fit the job, you might face delays, wasted time, or even safety risks. Sometimes, contractors have to bring in a second crane or more equipment because the first rental could not finish the work.

Rather than just looking at price, consider the overall value. A crane company with experience can help you find the best solution for your project.

 

Not Providing Complete Project Information

A common mistake customers make is not giving enough information during the planning stage.

The more details you share with your crane provider, the easier it is for them to recommend the right equipment and crew. Key details include load weight, size, lift radius, lift height, site conditions, ground stability, access limits, and your project schedule.

Sometimes customers guess weights or leave out details because they are not sure what matters. Even small mistakes can affect which crane is chosen and how the lift is planned.

If you are unsure, share all the information you have. Your crane company can help figure out what is needed.

 

Underestimating the Weight of the Load

Many people are surprised by how often this happens.

Some equipment may look small but actually weighs much more than you might expect. Items like oilfield components, compressors, separators, drilling equipment, pipe sections, and structural steel are often heavier than they seem.

If you estimate the weight incorrectly, it can cause serious problems. The crane you choose might not be able to lift the load safely at the needed distance or setup.

Always check the load weight before you schedule a crane rental. Manufacturer specs, engineering documents, and equipment records can give you accurate numbers and help you avoid unexpected issues on the day of the lift.

 

Failing to Consider Site Conditions

A crane’s lifting capacity matters, but site conditions are just as important.

In the Permian Basin, many projects happen in remote areas with rough ground, soft soil, few access roads, or busy work zones. Plans that seem simple can become much harder once the equipment is actually on site.

A skilled crane company will usually check the site or review project plans ahead of time to spot any issues before they cause expensive delays.

 

Waiting Until the Last Minute

It’s important not to overlook crane rentals when planning your project.

A lot of contractors wait until the end of a project to arrange lifting services. This might look efficient at first, but it often leads to fewer equipment options and makes scheduling harder.

The Permian Basin is still one of the busiest energy-producing areas in North America. The need for crane services can change a lot based on drilling, pipeline work, plant maintenance, and big industrial projects.

By planning ahead, you can get the right equipment, skilled operators, and enough time to prepare for your lifts.

 

Ignoring Weather Conditions

The weather in West Texas and southeastern New Mexico can be unpredictable.

High winds, thunderstorms, dust storms, and extreme temperatures can all affect crane operations. Wind matters most because it influences how well loads are controlled and how stable the crane is.

A lot of project managers do not think about the weather until the day they need to lift. At that point, schedules are often tight and any delay can cost more.

Partnering with a crane company that knows the local weather can help reduce weather delays and make project planning easier.

 

Not Asking About Operator Experience

The crane is just one part of the job. The person operating it is just as important.

Lifting heavy loads can be complicated, especially in oilfields or industrial sites where space is tight and safety rules are strict.

When choosing a crane rental company, make sure to ask about the operator’s qualifications, certifications, and experience. Skilled operators can spot hazards, work well with crews, and get the job done safely and efficiently.

At Wilbanks Crane, we know our operators are one of our greatest strengths. Their skills help keep projects safe and on track across the Permian Basin.

 

Overlooking Safety Planning

Always start each lift by making a safety plan.

Some companies put production schedules first and treat lift planning as less important. This can lead to more risk and problems that could have been avoided.

Good planning should cover the following:

• Lift plans
• Site evaluations
• Hazard assessments
• Communication procedures
• Equipment inspections
• Crew coordination

Safety planning does not slow down the project. It helps prevent accidents, cuts down on delays, and makes sure the job is done right the first time.

 

Assuming All Crane Companies Are the Same

Crane rental companies can differ in their service, equipment, and expertise.

Some companies just supply equipment. Others work closely with you, supporting planning, logistics, safety, and project execution.

Local experience is important for projects in the Permian Basin. Companies familiar with oilfield work know the challenges of energy infrastructure, remote sites, and tight deadlines.

 

Focusing Only on Today’s Lift

A lot of customers rent cranes for just one lift at a time. This makes sense, but it can also mean missing out on better options.

If your project has several phases, future equipment installs, or ongoing maintenance, talk about these plans with your crane provider. Planning ahead can help you save time and money during the whole project.

When your crane company knows your bigger goals, they can suggest lifting solutions that support your project from beginning to end.

 

Partner With a Crane Company You Can Trust

Renting a crane can be straightforward when you plan ahead, have the right details, and work with skilled professionals. By steering clear of common mistakes, you can keep your project safe, on time, and within budget.

Wilbanks Crane serves customers across the Permian Basin, including West Texas and southeastern New Mexico. Our team helps support the region’s oil and gas operations with reliable crane rentals, skilled operators, and a strong focus on safety.

If you need help with a single lift or a bigger project, we can help you find the right equipment and get the job done safely. Reach out to Wilbanks Crane at (575) 746-6318 to talk about your project and see why so many companies in the Permian Basin choose us for crane rentals and heavy lifting.