Derrick cranes are typically the hidden heroes of vertical construction, especially in metropolises like Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi, and Chennai. Tower cranes get all the attention, yet there are specific site conditions where derrick cranes outshine them — saving time, expense, and complexity.
In this blog, we’ll explore practical project scenarios where derrick cranes prove to be the better fit, helping project planners, site engineers, and procurement heads make smarter crane deployment decisions.
Tower cranes are ideal for long-term, large-scale vertical construction. But they come with challenges:
Derrick cranes, however, excel in:
After a tower crane has completed its task, it's difficult to safely remove it — particularly when no second crane is able to reach it. A derrick crane is small, rides on rooftops, and dismantles tower cranes with ease.
Common in: Mumbai, Hyderabad, Pune
Right from commercial buildings to hospitals, HVAC systems have to be lifted after construction. It enables rapid, post-project rooftop lifts without disturbing the adjacent infrastructure.
Shutdown jobs that are time-sensitive demand rapid, reliable lifting solutions. Derrick cranes with 10T capacity and high rope speed provide the adaptability required for these short maintenance windows.
Many locations in cities such as Bangalore or Kolkata are logistically restricted — no access to the ground, restricted swing space. This crane requires little base area and can function in tight areas.
For EPC contractors who do one-off lifts, or testing, renting this crane is cheaper than mobilizing an entire tower crane installation.
Read - Guide on how derrick cranes helps in construction and industry
Load Type |
Recommended Model |
Reason |
|---|---|---|
| HVAC Lifts, Rooftops | 4T DC1830 | Space-saving, affordable |
| Tower Crane Dismantling | 10T DC3023 | Greater lifting range, stability |
| Industrial Shutdown Jobs | 10T DC3023 | Handles heavy-duty maintenance |
Tip: Rope speeds up to 38 m/min reduce total lift time.
Download Derrick Crane Technical BrochureWhen scheduling derrick crane deployment, always:
Check our product - ACD/SLI
If you're still weighing your options, look at this side-by-side:
Factor |
Derrick Crane |
Tower Crane |
|---|---|---|
| Ideal Site Type | Rooftops, shutdowns | Open vertical builds |
| Setup Time | Faster | Slower |
| Cost Efficiency | More for short-term | Better for long-term |
| Operator Access | Moderate | High |
| Safety Systems | SLI/ACD compatible | SLI/ACD compatible |
Talk to a Derrick Crane Expert Request a Custom Rental Quote
Their shallow base requirement and rooftop mounting make them perfect for post-construction hoists.
Yes, it is possible to rent for just 2 weeks with fast dispatch times.
Absolutely. Our cranes have SLI/ACD systems and third-party certification.
See our tech table or consult an expert. The 10T model is used for dismantling and shutdowns.
Yes, certified operators and training can be provided for all projects.
