Crane Hire Cost Calculator
Estimate the cost to hire a crane in Australia. Choose the crane size, how long you need it and whether you need an operator.
Your crane hire details
Your estimate sits within the typical range.
Your estimate sits within the typical range.
Where the money goes
Estimated breakdown for your configuration
Lifting over a road or public area usually needs permits and traffic control, allow lead time to arrange them.
Ways to save
- Book the smallest crane that can safely do the lift, capacity is the main price driver.
- Schedule all lifts for one visit rather than calling the crane back.
How we estimate this
Crane hire in Australia in 2026 typically costs $170–$1,000+ per hour depending on crane size, or roughly $800–$2,500 for a full day with a small mobile crane including an operator.
Pricing reviewed: October 2026.
Crane hire prices by city
Costs vary by city. See the local breakdown for your capital.
Pricing reviewed October 2026. Indicative Australian costs, not a quote.
Understanding crane hire costs in Australia
Crane hire in Australia in 2026 typically costs $170–$1,000+ per hour depending on crane size, or roughly $800–$2,500 for a full day with a small mobile crane including an operator.
Wet hire includes a qualified operator and is most common; dry hire is cheaper but you supply your own ticketed operator. Transport, permits and setup add to the cost.
Frequently asked questions
How much does crane hire cost in Australia?
Around $170–$1,000+ per hour depending on size in 2026, or roughly $800–$2,500 for a full day with a small mobile crane and operator.
What’s the difference between wet and dry crane hire?
Wet hire includes a qualified operator; dry hire is equipment only and requires you to supply your own ticketed operator. Wet hire is most common.
Do I need permits for crane hire?
Lifting over public areas or roads usually requires permits and traffic management, which the hire company can often arrange.
Are you a hire business?
Everyone on this page is working out what crane hire costs because they are ready to hire. Put your business right beneath the calculator, in your state, so you are who they find. From $1,000/mo.