When planning a large construction project, one of the first logistical questions is, “How long can you rent a crane?” The answer isn’t always straightforward, especially when it comes to tower cranes. Tower crane rental duration depends on several factors, including the size and scope of your project, the availability of equipment, and your contractor’s schedule. Whether you’re building a multi-story structure or handling a long-term industrial job, it’s essential to understand the many variables that can influence your timeline.

At American Erecting & Ironworks, we’ve spent over 30 years helping contractors in Racine, Kenosha, Milwaukee, and surrounding areas plan their projects efficiently. With expert operators, modern equipment, and a flexible rental approach, we make tower crane rentals as smooth as possible, whatever your needs may be.

Typical Tower Crane Rental Durations

Short-Term Rentals

In some cases, a tower crane may only be needed for a short window of time. This could mean just a few days to erect or dismantle a structure, install heavy rooftop equipment like HVAC units, or assist with a machinery move. At American Erecting & Ironworks, we understand that flexibility is key, which is why we offer daily and weekly rental options for a variety of projects.

Long-Term Rentals

Larger construction projects, like commercial buildings or industrial complexes, can require a crane on-site for several weeks or even months. A typical long-term tower crane rental might run anywhere from eight weeks up to a full year depending on the job. American Erecting & Ironworks supports monthly and extended rental agreements, making it easier for builders and contractors to maintain uninterrupted workflow on job sites.

Factors That Affect Tower Crane Rental Duration

Project Scope and Size

The more complex the job, the longer you’ll need a crane. A single-level building project might require a crane for just a few days, while a multi-level construction or industrial installation might need weeks or months of crane access. Assessing your project’s scale early in the planning stage can help determine the appropriate tower crane rental duration.

Construction Schedules

Your project timeline plays a major role in determining how long you will need crane support. Delays due to weather, supply chain issues, or unexpected site challenges can extend timelines. Working with a company that offers flexible contracts—like American Erecting & Ironworks—can help you adapt if your schedule changes along the way.

Equipment Availability

Peak construction periods can affect equipment availability. If demand is high, you may need to reserve your crane well in advance or adjust your project timeline. American Erecting & Ironworks maintains a well-equipped fleet of late-model cranes and has the capacity to serve multiple clients, but early booking is still encouraged to ensure the right equipment is available when you need it.

Permitting and Setup Time

Installing and dismantling a tower crane takes time and often requires permits, especially in urban or restricted areas. If these steps aren’t handled efficiently, they can reduce your productive time on site. With American Erecting & Ironworks managing your tower crane logistics, you’ll benefit from our extensive experience obtaining permits and coordinating smooth crane erections and takedowns.

Site Accessibility

Crane setup can be delayed if the job site isn’t prepared or accessible. Tight or restricted spaces can complicate setup times, while remote locations might need additional equipment or manpower. Because we operate throughout Racine, Kenosha, Milwaukee, and parts of Lake County, IL, American Erecting & Ironworks has a strong understanding of local conditions and can help you plan for efficient setup and operations.

Type of Crane Needed

The duration of a tower crane rental can also depend on the specific type of crane required for the job. Some projects may benefit from self-erecting tower cranes, which can be set up and dismantled faster than traditional models. At American Erecting & Ironworks, our team works with you to determine the best crane option based on load weight, height, and reach so you get optimal performance for the duration of your rental.

Flexible Rental Agreements Offer Better Control

One of the biggest advantages of working with American Erecting & Ironworks is the flexible nature of our rental agreements. We offer:

– Daily rentals: Ideal for short tasks and installations

– Weekly rentals: Perfect for medium-sized jobs or shorter projects with multiple phases

– Monthly and extended rentals: Suitable for longer-term projects like commercial builds and industrial installations

These options allow contractors and builders to select plans suited to their specific needs without paying for more time than necessary.

In addition, our rental plans are customizable. If you need to switch from a weekly to a monthly rental due to expanding project needs, our team is ready to make adjustments quickly and with minimal disruption. This level of responsiveness has made American Erecting & Ironworks a trusted name in crane rentals across the region.

What Happens If Your Project Timeline Changes?

No matter how much planning you do, construction schedules can shift. This is why American Erecting & Ironworks supports adjustments to rental timelines when needed. Whether you’re ahead of schedule or facing delays, we work with you to adjust rental periods, ensuring your crane usage lines up with your real-time requirements. Our top priority is to keep your project on track without unnecessary rental costs or disruptions.

Adding Additional Equipment

Sometimes, your needs might evolve mid-project. You might start with a tower crane and later realize you’ll also need a genie boom lift, forklift, or telehandler to supplement your lifting capabilities. American Erecting & Ironworks offers a full range of rental equipment to support your project from all angles. This one-stop rental experience is built to keep your project moving, no matter how your needs change.

Changing Equipment Types Mid-Project

It’s not uncommon for clients to need different types of cranes as a project progresses. A tower crane might handle structural steel at the start, but a mobile crane may be more efficient for finishing touch installations. American Erecting & Ironworks can help you transition between machines smoothly to stay on schedule and on budget.

Why Choose American Erecting & Ironworks?

For over three decades, American Erecting & Ironworks has been a trusted name in crane services, machinery moving, and equipment rental. Our team of NCCCO-certified crane operators upholds the highest safety and operational standards. Clients from Wisconsin’s Racine, Kenosha, and Milwaukee counties and parts of Illinois rely on our experience, customer-first service, and modern equipment fleet.

In addition to tower crane rentals, we provide:

– Crane services for HVAC installations, steel erection, and heavy lifting

– Forklifts and telehandlers with or without rigger booms

– Genie boom lifts for high-access tasks

– Professional machinery moving tailored to your schedule

– Steel sales, including beams and columns in various sizes

We pride ourselves on being able to support projects across multiple industries. Whether you’re handling residential, commercial, or industrial builds, American Erecting & Ironworks has the resources and knowledge to be your reliable partner from beginning to end.

Commitment to Safety

Safety is always the top priority at American Erecting & Ironworks. All crane rentals come with expert operators who follow strict guidelines to ensure both efficiency and site safety. We regularly inspect and service our fleet to maintain peak performance and compliance with all OSHA standards, so you can rent from us with confidence.

Planning Your Rental With Confidence

If you’re asking, “How long can you rent a crane?” you likely have a major project on the horizon. The best way to plan your tower crane rental duration is to start by discussing your goals with a trusted professional. At American Erecting & Ironworks, we offer detailed consultations to help you identify the right equipment, schedule, and rental terms for your job.

By taking into account all critical factors—like your timeline, project scope, and site conditions—we help you avoid delays and manage costs effectively. Our goal is to give you the equipment you need when you need it and to adjust terms based on your evolving schedule.

Scheduling Your Crane Rental

We recommend contacting us as early as possible, especially if your project will occur during peak construction season. This ensures both equipment and personnel availability. During our initial consultation, we’ll discuss your expected timeline, lift requirements, and any special conditions on-site so we can tailor your rental plan specifically to your needs.

When you work with American Erecting & Ironworks, you’re not just renting a tower crane—you’re securing a dependable partner who’s ready to adjust, advise, and provide the tools you need every step of the way. From the first lift to the last bolt, we’ll be with you to ensure your project’s success.

Contact American Erecting & Ironworks Today

Whether you’re preparing for a short-term lift or a long-term construction project, the team at American Erecting & Ironworks is here to help. With expert crane operators, top-tier equipment, and flexible rental terms, we provide everything you need to complete your job safely and on time.

Give us a call at (262) 637-7177 or visit AEAIWI.COM to request a quote and learn more about how we can support your project. Our team is based at 2108 Clark St, Racine, WI 53403 and is available Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

At American Erecting & Ironworks, we’re proud to be a second-generation, family-owned business committed to excellence. Let us help you plan your tower crane rental with confidence and ease so you can focus on building something great.