Buying a new overhead crane or a used overhead crane: which option is better?

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.

What are the challenges of buying a used overhead crane?

The compliance

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.

The bridge span adjustment

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.

Installation and commissioning

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.

Pre-purchase inspection: a highly recommended step

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.

Why consider a new overhead crane?

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.

Conclusion

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!

For more information, see our modernization section.