Crane rental questions

Most small to mid-size operated crane jobs in the Bakersfield area land between about $1,000 and $3,500 for a short day, including the operator. Larger all-terrain or crawler cranes, long jobs, extra rigging crew and permits push it higher. See the pricing guide for ranges by crane type.

For mobile cranes, almost always. Most crane jobs are "operated and maintained" rentals: the crane company supplies a certified operator and is responsible for the machine. Bare rentals (crane without operator) exist for some equipment, but you then need your own certified operator and your own insurance.

Give as much notice as you can. One to two weeks is comfortable for routine lifts. Busy periods for oilfield, construction and solar work can stretch lead times to several weeks. Same-day or next-day lifts are sometimes possible for small cranes and boom trucks, so say so on the form if it is urgent.

The heaviest item and its dimensions, how far it must travel horizontally from where the crane can set up (the radius), how high it must go, the ground conditions, any power lines or obstructions, and the date. A few photos of the site make quoting much faster.

No. Bakersfield Crane Rental is a free referral service. We pass your request to independent local crane companies, who quote you and do the work. You contract with them directly. Read how it works.

If the crane or its outriggers sit in a public street, alley or sidewalk, you will usually need an encroachment permit: from the City of Bakersfield inside city limits, or from Kern County Public Works in unincorporated areas. Lifts near airports may need FAA notice. Your crane provider can usually tell you what applies and often handles it.

California requires operators of most cranes to hold a certification from an accredited body, such as NCCCO (Cal/OSHA, Title 8 Section 5006.1). Cranes also need an annual inspection and certification by a Cal/OSHA licensed certifier. Ask for the operator card and the current crane certificate before the lift.

Yes. Many requests come from project managers outside the area who need a local crane for a plant shutdown, equipment set, tank or vessel move, or a solar or utility job. Describe the scope on the form and the providers will follow up.