Ever tried to move a ridiculously heavy object and wished for a magic wand? A hot tub, a shipping container, maybe even a small car? At Mason Trucking, we don’t have magic wands, but we have the next best thing: HIABs. For the last 14 years, our family-run business has been lifting, shifting, and hauling all sorts of things across the UK. We specialise in HIAB hire, haulage, and grab hire, turning your heavy-lifting nightmares into a walk in the park.
This blog post will explain exactly what a HIAB is, when you might need one, and how it can make your life a whole lot easier. We’ll lift the lid on this powerful piece of machinery and, hopefully, give you a few chuckles along the way.
So, what is a HIAB?
You’ve likely seen them on the road—a lorry with a hefty crane folded up behind the cab. That’s a HIAB. The name “HIAB” actually comes from the Swedish manufacturer, Hydraliska Industri AB, who pioneered this type of crane back in 1944. Much like people say “Hoover” for a vacuum cleaner, HIAB has become the go-to term for any lorry-mounted crane.
Fun fact: when a brand name becomes so ubiquitous it replaces the actual name of the product it’s known as “genericisation”.
Anyway, in simple terms, a HIAB is a lorry and a crane rolled into one convenient package. The hydraulic crane is designed to lift heavy loads onto its own flatbed, transport them to a new location, and then unload them. The whole operation is powered by the vehicle’s engine, which drives the crane’s hydraulic system. Modern HIABs are often operated by remote control, allowing the operator to get the best possible view for safe and precise lifting. This truck-mounted crane is a clever bit of kit that has transformed the world of haulage.
When do you need a HIAB lorry hire?
A HIAB is the hero you call when you have something heavy to move that a standard lorry just can’t handle. Its versatility makes it indispensable across various industries. Here are a few common scenarios where HIAB transport is the perfect solution:
- Construction sites: Moving building materials like pallets of bricks, steel beams, or roofing trusses to exactly where they’re needed.
- Heavy machinery transport: Shifting excavators, generators, or other large pieces of equipment from one site to another.
- Moving shipping containers: Whether it’s for storage or setting up a trendy pop-up shop, a HIAB can lift and place containers with ease.
- Farming equipment: Transporting tractors, ploughs, and other agricultural machinery.
- Events and exhibitions: Lifting and positioning large metal frames, display stands, or even sculptures.
The great advantage of HIAB haulage is its efficiency. You don’t need a separate forklift or mobile crane on-site to load and unload. The HIAB does it all, saving you time, money, and logistical headaches.
How does HIAB truck hire compare to other services?
If you’re wondering whether you need HIAB hire, standard haulage, or a separate crane, here’s a quick breakdown.
Standard haulage is great if your items can be easily loaded and unloaded by other means, like a forklift. However, if the site has no loading equipment or limited access, you’ll run into trouble.
Hiring a separate mobile crane and a lorry is another option, but it involves coordinating two different vehicles and operators. This can be more expensive and complicated, especially for a single job.
HIAB crane truck hire combines the best of both worlds. You get one vehicle that can lift and transport your goods. This is particularly useful for sites with restricted space where getting a large mobile crane in would be a nightmare. For many jobs, a HIAB lorry is the most cost-effective and straightforward choice.
Do you need a licence for a HIAB?
Absolutely. Operating a HIAB crane is not a job for an amateur. It requires specific training and certification to ensure the job is done safely and correctly. In the UK, operators must hold a recognised qualification.
The two main certification bodies are ALLMI (The Association of Lorry Loader Manufacturers and Importers) and NPORS (National Plant Operators Registration Scheme). Courses cover everything from current legislation and pre-operational checks to maintenance and, of course, mastering the crane’s controls. When you hire from a reputable company like Mason Trucking, you can be sure our operators are fully certified and experienced.
Why choose Mason trucking for your HIAB needs?
We know we’re not the only HIAB haulage company in the UK, but we like to think we’re one of the best. Here’s why:
- Experience you can trust: As a family-run business with 14 years in the game, we know our stuff.
- Perfectly placed: Our location near Colchester, just off the A120 and A12, gives us great access to London and the eastern counties.
- Passionate and friendly team: Our operators aren’t just certified; they’re polite, friendly, and genuinely care about doing a good job.
- Fully insured: Our vehicles and your goods (up to £100,000) are fully insured for your peace of mind.
- Eco-conscious: We operate our own recycling plant for soil and hardcore, approved by the Environment Agency.
- Serious lifting power: Our HIABs and crane-assisted vehicles can lift up to 5 tons.
Frequently asked questions
Can a HIAB handle abnormal loads?
Our HIABs can lift a wide range of items up to 5 tons. This includes everything from building materials and machinery to hot tubs and shipping containers. If it’s heavy and needs moving, chances are we can handle it.
Is HIAB hire cost-effective?
For many jobs, yes. Because a HIAB can both lift and transport goods, you save on the cost of hiring a separate crane or forklift. It’s an all-in-one solution that streamlines the process and reduces costs.
Do I need a certified operator for HIAB/crane hire?
Yes, and it’s a legal requirement. All our operators at Mason Trucking are fully certified, insured, and highly experienced, so you can rest easy knowing your project is in safe hands.
What areas do you serve?
We are based near Colchester in Essex but provide HIAB lorry hire to a wide area, including London and the eastern counties. Get in touch to discuss your specific location.
How quickly can I book a HIAB?
We pride ourselves on being responsive. Give us a call, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your schedule, even at short notice.
Let us take the weight off your shoulders
A HIAB is a powerful tool that makes light work of heavy lifting. It’s efficient, versatile, and often the most cost-effective solution for transporting bulky items. When you partner with an experienced company, you can be confident your goods will arrive safely and on time.
At Mason Trucking, we combine the power of our HIAB fleet with the friendly, reliable service of a family-run business. Ready to move that mountain (or at least that shipping container)? Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote and let us lift your worries away.