Evaluating Used Cranes Purchased Through Online Auctions

[MikePhua]

The Rise of Online Equipment Auctions
Online platforms like AuctionTime have transformed how contractors and fleet managers acquire heavy equipment. Cranes, once traded through local dealers or private sales, are now listed with photos, specs, and bidding windows accessible worldwide. This shift has increased transparency and competition but also introduced new risks—especially when evaluating complex machines like lattice boom or hydraulic truck cranes.
Cranes are among the most regulated and structurally sensitive machines in construction. Their safe operation depends on precise load charts, structural integrity, and hydraulic performance. Buying one through an online auction requires a blend of mechanical knowledge, document verification, and logistical planning.
Key Inspection Areas Before Purchase
When considering a crane listed online, focus on:

• Boom and structural components
  • Inspect for weld cracks, corrosion, and bent sections
    
  • Verify boom length and configuration matches manufacturer specs
    
  • Check for missing pins, sheaves, or wear plates
    
• Hydraulic system
  • Review pump pressure ratings and cycle times
    
  • Inspect hoses for abrasion and leaks
    
  • Confirm function of outriggers, swing, and telescoping systems
    
• Engine and drivetrain
  • Test cold start behavior and idle stability
    
  • Check for blow-by, oil leaks, and coolant condition
    
  • Review transmission engagement and brake function
    
• Electrical and control systems
  • Verify load moment indicator (LMI) operation
    
  • Inspect wiring harnesses and fuse panels
    
  • Test all lights, alarms, and backup systems
    
• Documentation and compliance
  

• Request inspection logs, maintenance records, and operator manuals
  
• Confirm serial number matches title and registration
  
• Check for OSHA or CE compliance depending on region
  

In Alberta, a contractor purchased a 35-ton truck crane through an online auction and discovered post-delivery that the boom had been sleeved after a prior accident. The repair was undocumented, and the crane failed its first load test. After retrofitting with a certified boom section, the machine was cleared for service—but the lesson was costly.
Common Risks and Mitigation Strategies
Online crane purchases may involve:

• Undisclosed damage: Cosmetic repairs may hide structural fatigue
  
• Missing components: Hooks, counterweights, or jib sections may be absent
  
• Outdated safety systems: Older cranes may lack modern LMI or anti-two-block devices
  
• Transport complications: Oversize permits and disassembly may be required
  
• Title issues: Machines sold without clear ownership can delay registration
  

Mitigation steps:

• Hire a third-party inspector near the seller’s location
  
• Request detailed photos of welds, hydraulic fittings, and control panels
  
• Use escrow services to hold payment until inspection is complete
  
• Budget for transport, reassembly, and certification testing
  
• Contact the manufacturer for service history and parts availability
  

In Shanghai, a fleet manager bought a crawler crane online and arranged a remote inspection via video call. The inspector noticed excessive wear on the swing bearing and recommended a full teardown. The buyer renegotiated the price and used the savings to rebuild the bearing before deployment.
Post-Purchase Setup and Commissioning
After delivery:

• Perform full fluid change and filter replacement
  
• Conduct load testing with certified weights
  
• Calibrate LMI and safety systems
  
• Inspect wire ropes and reeve according to load chart
  
• Train operators on model-specific controls and emergency procedures
  
• Schedule third-party certification if required by local regulations
  

In Ohio, a contractor added GPS tracking and remote diagnostics to their newly acquired crane to monitor usage and maintenance intervals. This helped prevent overloading and ensured compliance with jobsite safety protocols.
Field Anecdote and Practical Insight
In Baghdad, a used truck crane purchased online arrived with mismatched outriggers and a cracked turntable weld. The crew fabricated new outrigger pads and reinforced the weld with a certified repair. After passing inspection, the crane was used to lift irrigation pipe across a canal. A risky purchase turned into a productive asset through careful post-sale work.
Conclusion
Buying a crane through an online auction can be a cost-effective strategy, but it demands rigorous inspection, documentation review, and post-delivery setup. With proper planning and technical oversight, even older machines can be restored to safe, reliable service. Whether lifting steel, setting trusses, or placing bridge segments, a well-evaluated crane ensures safety, efficiency, and long-term value on the jobsite.