A boom truck carries the load and lifts it, which suits lighter jobs on narrow Chicago streets and alleys. When the reach over a bungalow is too long, a larger crane is the better fit.
A boom truck is a truck with a crane mounted on its bed. It carries the load and lifts it, which makes it a good fit for lighter work: a condenser onto a garage roof, glass panels for a storefront, signs, steel lintels, a hot tub over a fence, or pallets onto a low roof. It is smaller and quicker to set up than a full truck crane, which helps on narrow Chicago streets and alleys.
A boom truck still has limits. Its reach and capacity are smaller than a big truck crane's, and the load chart drops fast as the boom goes out. A light load set 40 feet back over a bungalow may be past what a boom truck can do. We check the weight and the distance before we choose between a boom truck and a larger crane.
Boom trucks still need outriggers set on firm ground, a clear swing path away from power lines, and often a permit if they stand in the street. In winter, ice on the street or the roof and snow banks along the curb can slow things down. We plan the spot and the time of day with you, and put it all in the written quote.
Boom truck service in Chicago: common questions
What can a boom truck lift?
Lighter loads such as condensers, signs, glass, small steel and pallets. The exact limit depends on the truck and how far the boom reaches.
Is a boom truck cheaper than a crane?
Often, for small lifts, because it is a smaller machine and sets up faster. National price guides list lower hourly rates for boom trucks, but your quote depends on the job.
Does a boom truck need a permit on the street?
If it sets up in the street or on the sidewalk, usually yes. In Chicago that goes through CDOT, and a crane permit from the Department of Buildings may apply.
How it works
- Free site look: Call, text or send photos. We look at the load, the access and where the crane can set up.
- Lift plan & written quote: Crane size, crew, time on site and price in writing.
- Permits & set-up: We check which street, sidewalk or airspace permits the lift needs before the day.
- Lift day: The crew sets up, rigs the load, makes the lift and packs up.