A boom truck is a truck with a telescoping crane mounted on the back, so it can drive to the site, set up quickly, and start lifting.
What is a boom truck?
A boom truck, sometimes called a boom crane or knuckleboom, combines a flatbed truck and a crane boom. It carries its own materials on the bed, which is why contractors use it for deliveries as well as lifts.
Setup is fast because there's no assembly. The truck parks, the outriggers go down, and the boom extends. For many small and medium jobs, that speed is what keeps the price reasonable.
At a glance
| Best for | Roofing materials, HVAC units, trusses, signs, and deliveries |
|---|---|
| Setup | Drives in, outriggers down, boom extends. No assembly |
| Site needs | Room for outriggers, firm ground, and clearance from power lines |
| Pricing | Usually by the hour with a minimum, plus travel |
| Booked as | Operated rental, with the operator running the boom |
| To quote, we need | Material and weight, lift height, address, and your date |
Typical boom truck jobs
- Roofing: shingles, tile, and materials to the roof
- HVAC condensers and rooftop units
- Roof trusses and framing lumber
- Pipe, conduit, and utility material
- Billboard, sign, and light pole work
- Landscape boulders, pavers, and pool equipment
What to know before you book
A boom truck needs room. The outriggers spread out wider than the truck, and the ground under them has to carry the load. Overhead power lines are the other big factor, because boom trucks must keep a safe distance from them.
- Space for the truck and fully extended outriggers
- Firm, level ground or a plan for pads and mats
- Clearance from wires, trees, and overhead structures
- Street parking or a permit if the truck sits on a public road
Boom truck pricing factors
Boom truck work is generally priced by the hour with a minimum, plus travel to the site. The size of the truck, the reach required, and the time on site move the number the most. Extra rigging or a second crew member can add cost, and we'll spell that out when we send your quote.
Information that gets you a faster quote
- Material or equipment being lifted, with weight if known
- Pick-up and drop height and distance
- Address and a note about wires or tight access
- Preferred date and estimated time on site
Boom truck service across the region
We handle boom truck jobs in Philadelphia and throughout Delaware County, Montgomery County, Bucks County, Chester County, and South Jersey. If the lift is in a tight yard or indoors, a mini crane may be the better call.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a boom truck and a crane?
A boom truck is one type of crane that's mounted on a truck. It sets up faster than most cranes but usually has less reach and capacity than a larger mobile or crawler crane.
Can a boom truck lift onto a roof?
Yes, this is one of the most common uses. We'll check reach, setup space, and nearby power lines before the job is scheduled.
Do boom trucks come with an operator?
Typically, yes. The operator runs the boom and rigging gear is normally part of the job. We'll confirm exactly what's included in your quote.
Can a boom truck work on a Philadelphia street?
Often it can, but you may need a permit for street occupancy. Tell us the address and the date and we'll flag what to arrange.