Performing construction jobs without using lifting equipment is impossible to imagine. Construction companies need different equipment to ensure the fast and safe delivery of numerous logistical tasks. From lifting heavyweight materials to transporting them from place one to another, these pieces of lifting equipment are the first thing that comes to our mind. However, while most companies prefer using cranes, many opt for hoists. Now, if you are new in the construction industry, you may not even know the differences between a crane and a hoist as both perform similar functions of lifting and moving heavy loads. Similarly, if you have undertaken a mining project, you may get confused about whether you should hire a company that offers the best mine crane services or use hoists.

While cranes and hoists are both machines that move and lift heavy loads, they have many fundamental differences in design and usage. This blog will explain the major differences between a crane and a hoist and how they work. By knowing the basics, you will be able to decide on the ideal lifting equipment for your specific requirements. Keep reading the blog till the end.

What is a Crane?

A Crane is a complex device that’s used for lifting and moving loads or materials sideways, up, down, horizontally, or vertically. And with the ability to move through gravel, sand, or asphalt and an all-wheel driving steering suspension system, a crane has the mobility to get around and complete distinct construction projects. These are some of the major reasons companies offering crane rental services, like mine crane services, are now getting hired predominantly by corporate units where heavy-duty goods, especially tools, machinery, waste materials, and others are being lifted regularly basis. Some of the most popular cranes include tower cranes, overhead cranes, all-terrain cranes, rough-terrain cranes, and mobile cranes.

When operated safely, cranes are the most reliable machines that can simplify complex lifting procedures. Whether you need lifting equipment on land or water, cranes are our all-time favorite mode of transport.

What is a Hoist?

A hoist is a simple device that can only move loads vertically. It is situated on the primary horizontal beam of the crane and is used as part of a crane’s wider application. One common example of a hoist is an elevator which can perfectly transport loads vertically but in no other direction. As a hoist does not provide any horizontal moving action to loads, it is not a multi-purpose device.

Hoists are generally categorised by their suspension, power type, and lifting medium. Additionally, based on the mechanism and how it works, a hoist has four types: electric, hydraulic, pneumatic, and manual hoist.

Primary Differences Between a Crane and a Hoist

Although both cranes and hoists perform similar functions, they have fundamental differences. The main differences between the two are how they operate, their applications, and their components.

  • While the capacity of a crane to carry a load is beyond human capability, a hoist can lift loads below 5 tons.
  • Cranes can be used on different terrains, while hoists are difficult to operate on rough terrains. So, if you live in Perth or nearby areas and are looking for a company that can provide the best all-terrain cranes in Perthreach out to ABC Crane Hire. We offer a wide range of cranes at reasonable rates and adhere to all the crane safety rules and standards.
  • A hoist is only used to move loads up and down. On the other hand, cranes are equipped with components that help the crane to move in two or three dimensions.
  • While hoists are only used to raise the loads, cranes are used for picking waste materials, demolishing, and more.
  • A hoist is a simple device while a crane is a complex machine that uses other simple machines, including the hoist, to carry out various construction tasks.

Final Thoughts


Before you decide whether to use a crane or a hoist, you will need to understand your logistical requirements to determine which one is right for you. Should you be looking for a company that offers the best mine crane services, you can consider contacting ABC Crane Hire. Besides offering world-class crane equipment, we also take pride in having the best safety record and hiring only skilled and well-qualified operators. For details, call 0895245502.

About ABC Crane Hire

With more than 17 years in the crane hire and lifting equipment industry in Western Australia, we have established ourselves as one of the most reliable and efficient crane hire companies in the country.