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All Terrain Crane Overview and Market Context
All terrain cranes are engineered to combine the mobility of truck cranes with the off-road capability of rough terrain models. Typically equipped with multi-axle steering, high-capacity suspension, and telescopic booms reaching 100–200 feet, these machines are ideal for modular home lifting, infrastructure work, and urban construction. In the 120-tonne class, leading manufacturers include Liebherr, Grove, and Tadano—each offering distinct advantages in build quality, support, and transport logistics.
Terminology Note
In British Columbia’s mountainous terrain, road restrictions and steep grades demand careful planning. Most operators use a dedicated support truck to carry counterweights, mats, and rigging. A tandem flatbed with a cheater axle and 18–20 ft bed can carry 20–30k lbs of gear, reducing wear on the crane’s drivetrain and improving maneuverability on tight job sites.
Owning a 120-tonne AT crane involves significant upkeep. Based on auction repair records:
Rental and Revenue Planning
For owner-operators entering the modular home market, a typical rental rate of $375 CAD/hour can be broken down as follows:
Conclusion
Selecting a 120-tonne all terrain crane requires balancing lifting charts, transport logistics, terrain demands, and long-term operating costs. Liebherr offers premium build quality, Grove provides strong support, and Tadano delivers simplicity and reliability. With proper planning, a modular home manufacturer can transition into broader lifting services, leveraging the crane’s versatility while managing costs through smart support truck configurations and preventive maintenance.
All terrain cranes are engineered to combine the mobility of truck cranes with the off-road capability of rough terrain models. Typically equipped with multi-axle steering, high-capacity suspension, and telescopic booms reaching 100–200 feet, these machines are ideal for modular home lifting, infrastructure work, and urban construction. In the 120-tonne class, leading manufacturers include Liebherr, Grove, and Tadano—each offering distinct advantages in build quality, support, and transport logistics.
Terminology Note
- Boom Dolly: A trailer used to support the crane’s boom during road transport, reducing axle loads and complying with road weight limits.
- Counterweight: Removable slabs of steel mounted on the crane to balance lifting loads.
- Telma Brake: An electromagnetic retarder that supplements braking on steep grades, reducing wear and heat buildup.
- Liebherr LTM 1120: Known for precision engineering and solid axle design. Offers superior durability in hilly terrain and is often considered the “Cadillac” of the category. Operators praise its reliability and smooth controls.
- Grove GMK5120B: Features MegaTrack suspension and strong factory support. Slightly more complex in maintenance but widely available in North America.
- Tadano ATF 110G-5: Highly regarded by operators for simplicity and robustness. Requires a boom trailer in some configurations due to weight distribution. Popular in regions with limited dealer support for European brands.
In British Columbia’s mountainous terrain, road restrictions and steep grades demand careful planning. Most operators use a dedicated support truck to carry counterweights, mats, and rigging. A tandem flatbed with a cheater axle and 18–20 ft bed can carry 20–30k lbs of gear, reducing wear on the crane’s drivetrain and improving maneuverability on tight job sites.
- Advantages of a straight truck: Easier to navigate crowded areas, less prone to getting stuck, and cheaper to repair than a crane’s transmission.
- Disadvantages: If the truck breaks down, the crane is immobilized unless the load is transferred.
- Alternative: A truck-trailer combo allows swapping tractors if needed, offering more flexibility.
Owning a 120-tonne AT crane involves significant upkeep. Based on auction repair records:
- Annual maintenance costs: $25,000–$50,000 CAD, excluding fuel, tires, and labor.
- Tire replacement: Up to $30,000 for a full set.
- Boom cylinder repairs: Can exceed $75,000 if outsourced.
- Transmission damage: Often results from towing counterweights on steep grades without proper braking systems.
Rental and Revenue Planning
For owner-operators entering the modular home market, a typical rental rate of $375 CAD/hour can be broken down as follows:
- $50/hour for maintenance
- $50/hour for operator wages
- $30/hour for fuel
- $20/hour for insurance and support vehicle costs
- $25/hour for miscellaneous expenses
- Net revenue: Approximately $200/hour toward crane repayment
Conclusion
Selecting a 120-tonne all terrain crane requires balancing lifting charts, transport logistics, terrain demands, and long-term operating costs. Liebherr offers premium build quality, Grove provides strong support, and Tadano delivers simplicity and reliability. With proper planning, a modular home manufacturer can transition into broader lifting services, leveraging the crane’s versatility while managing costs through smart support truck configurations and preventive maintenance.
