Plan your service call - Two simple options
When comes the time to make major acquisitions, some people prefer to look into used products such as used lifting equipment . The main benefit is undoubtedly the cost savings. Considering the investment involved in purchasing an overhead crane, it is not surprising that some companies keep their eyes open to such opportunities. In addition, some might think “my equipment won’t work hard… a used overhead crane will do the job!” But is this wise?
Apart from the use and amount recorded on paper, it would be appropriate to focus on the indirect costs related to this type of purchase. Indeed, it is appropriate to recall here that a very short-term saving does not necessarily mean a reduction in costs over the long term. Could that kind of surprise really happen with a worn overhead crane? In fact, unexpected costs could occur even before starting to use an equipment! So here are some things to consider before deciding to buy a used overhead crane.
The wear of second-hand lifting equipment can be highly variable. But in all cases, this does not exempt the new owner from meeting all compliance requirements. The CSA B167-16 standard states that the owner of an existing overhead crane must "gather and document the information" specified in the table below "before using the overhead crane” (5.1.9). This means that he must be able to demonstrate the compliance of his equipment at any time by presenting the required documents to the relevant authorities. But will the former owner have provided you with this critical documentation? If this is not the case, it will still fall on you as a new owner since the device is now your responsibility. Therefore, this information will have to be obtained in one way or another from the manufacturer, the supplier or an engineer. For more details on the compliance issue, please see our blog: Compliance of Lifting and Handling equipment.
When compliance documents are missing, the process for obtaining them can vary and become complicated. For example, getting a sealed plan requires engineering, and implies engineering costs as well. These fees must therefore be added to the original purchase price. In addition, the absence of certain documents may result in associated costs. For example, if there is no written evidence to support the rated capacity of the used overhead crane, engineering will be required to establish its actual capacity. If its real capacity is lower than expected, you may decide to make some modifications to the equipment itself to achieve the required lifting capacity. These fees can be high and difficult to predict!
Now let’s see how physical adjustments alone can impact your decision.
In most cases, the span of a worn overhead crane will have to be modified to fit the new structure. Indeed, it is unlikely that the distance between the tracks at the new location would match exactly the previous one. Therefore, whether it is an extension or a reduction in span engineering will be required because any “modifications affecting structural, mechanical, or electrical integrity of an existing overhead crane or hoist shall not be performed unless the modification has been evaluated and stamped by an engineer.” (CSA B167-16 5.1.11). This means that an engineering fee, in addition to the adjustment fee, will be required to adapt the overhead crane’s span to its new location.
But that’s not all. The welds to be made during this operation must comply with current welding standards (see CSA B167-16 5.5; CSA W47.1; CSA W59 and the BCS). These compliance elements are therefore added to the list, and the documents needed to demonstrate them must be included in the logbook in the same way as the others. You’ll also need to demonstrate compliance of the installation and commissioning of your new used equipment.A used overhead crane is subject to the same requirements as a new overhead crane regarding its installation and commissioning. For example, there is no different criteria whether the overhead crane has already been used or not, or has been modified or not. It therefore means doing an initial inspection and a load test before any operation. What will those interventions reveal about the status of your new acquisition? This is a sufficient reason not to ignore the following recommendation.
It may be prudent to request a third-party inspection before deciding to purchase a used overhead crane. The reason is obvious: it helps to avoid unpleasant surprises! For example, many second-hand car buyers have them inspected before completing the transaction, which is a good idea. So what about a lifting device? Imagine that the inspection reveals significant non-compliances that require mandatory repairs prior to use. The costs could be considerable! This would probably challenge your decision! In addition, in the case of worn overhead cranes, essential or major components may be obsolete, such as motors or the hoist itself. The replacement cost of these components could reflect the price gap with new equipment.
Buying a new overhead crane gives you the assurance of up-to-date technology and a manufacturer’s warranty, which is often more reassuring in the long term. This reduces the risk of frequent repairs and ensures the availability of replacement parts. Although the initial investment is higher, the savings on repairs and maintenance can justify the cost.
When it comes to choosing between a used and a new overhead crane, carefully assess your budget, durability needs and safety objectives. The condition of the used crane for sale and the modifications you’ll need to make to bring it up to standard can have a significant impact on your choice. What’s more, the regulations governing lifting equipment are the same, regardless of whether the equipment is used lightly or intensively. So don’t be seduced by tempting offers and apparent savings! When it comes to investing in machinery at the heart of your production, it’s best to be vigilant and discerning. It’s true that the investment in a new overhead crane can be considerable. But if you’re not careful, the overall cost of a used overhead crane could be much worse!
Groupe Picard- Jean-Denis Perron
“ Their ability to listen to our specific needs was a major strength. They have always responded quickly and efficiently, especially in emergency situations, which has greatly contributed to the continuity and success of our operations... I highly recommend Premium Industrial Group to any company looking for a reliable, structured and responsive partner. Their professionalism and commitment to quality and safety make them a model in the industry. „
Université Laval
Michel Lafrance
“ Since the beginning of our collaboration, Groupe Industriel Premium was able to help us target our needs while respecting our high safety criteria. At every step of the project, from the engineering to the completion of the project, we benefited from courteous, efficient and fast service. In addition, I would like to specify that this project was delivered within the deadline in collaboration with the various subcontractors present on the field. I have no doubt about the expertise of Groupe Industriel Premium. „
Modern Event Furniture – Jean-Francois Delisle
“ Nowadays, everyone claims to offer exceptional service, but very few know the real definition. Throughout the project of our new plant, the work done by Industrial Premium Group took place on time, at cost, and especially in a super-efficient way. This collaboration was a real pleasure from beginning to end, and they really can claim to offer exceptional service. Thank you all! „
Fabrinov – Rémi Poulin
“ I want to thank you all for the good work you’ve done at Fabrinov. I am extremely satisfied by both the quality of the product and the professionalism of your crew. Job was finalized quicker than expected and everything went smoothly. While no one was running on site, there was no waste of time! Your crew knew exactly what they were doing! „
Continental
Benjamin Cloutier
“ We are fully satisfied with the result. The whole project met our expectations in terms of budget, deadlines and quality. Even the tidiness of the old structure in the roof beams was done as requested. „
Les Entreprises Carco inc.
“ Groupe Industriel Premium is a team of professionals! We have done several overhead crane installation projects with them. A reliable, experienced and qualified team that listens to the needs of the client and respects deadlines and safety. „
Unisson Structures
Marc Sauriol-F
“ I wanted to personally thank you for all your hard work. Sometimes accolades are hard to come by, especially when there are a few surprises along the way, but I really mean it: Thank you! „
RMH Industries
Gaétan Dionne
“ Thank you to the Groupe Industriel Premium team for their great work on this project. They presented a personalized offer answering to the specific needs of our company. The project was delivered on time and respected the initial specifications. „
CR Nouvel-Air- Jonathan Milette
“ Very good specialized company. Extraordinary value for money. Company with very human service. „
TMS Solution
Marc-Antoine Coulombe
“ Thanks to the support of the Groupe Industriel Premium, we made the right decision according to our needs. We had the equipment delivered on time with a fast installation. Thank you for helping our company on its journey. „
Danaca Transport
“ Thank you to Groupe Industriel Premium team for their excellent service! „
Structures RBR
Alain Lebel
“ We have Premium who takes cares of our overhead cranes and we can rely on them. „
Stornoway
Yves Perron
“ To the Groupe Industriel Premium team, thank you for the excellent work. You have greatly participated in the success of the Renard project. „
AnodiQ inc.
Steve Fontaine
“ After 5 years of operation, we are proud to have kept their service, the quality of our Gorbel structure allows us to successfully complete our activities. „
Groupe Machinex
Jean-Michel Paré
“ We usually had a traditional crane come out to pick up the baler and set it on transport. Now, we are saving a lot of time because we just pick it up with those two overhead cranes, set it on transport, and it's off to our client's facility. „
Robover
Gordon McAllister
“ Professional and safe work, consistent habits of all staff. „
Comairco
-Marjorie Pleau
“ "Nous avons fait affaire avec l’équipe de Premium, car ils nous ont proposé une structure adaptée à nos besoins. Ils ont su respecter l’échéancier de production afin que notre équipe soit opérationnelle rapidement." „
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