Different Types of Hiab Trucks and Their Capabilities

In the world of logistics, construction, and heavy lifting, efficiency and versatility are everything. This is where Hiab trucks come in, the powerful vehicles that combine transport and lifting capabilities in one seamless package. Whether it’s loading heavy machinery on-site or delivering construction materials to hard-to-reach areas, a Hiab truck can do it all.

But not all Hiab trucks are the same. Different types are designed for different loads, industries, and operational needs. In this article, we’ll explore the main types of Hiab trucks, their unique capabilities, and how to choose the right one for your project.

What Is a Hiab Truck?

A Hiab truck (also known as a truck-mounted crane) is a vehicle fitted with a hydraulic lifting arm. The term “Hiab” originally comes from the Swedish company Hydrauliska Industri AB, which pioneered these cranes. Over time, “Hiab” has become a generic term used across the industry for any truck-mounted crane system.

These trucks are designed to lift, load, transport, and unload heavy goods without needing additional equipment like forklifts or static cranes. This makes them a favorite in industries such as:

• Construction

• Logistics and transport

• Waste management

• Utilities and infrastructure

• Machinery relocation

1. Rigid Hiab Trucks

Overview

Rigid Hiab trucks are the most common type of Hiab vehicle. They feature a single rigid chassis with the crane permanently mounted behind the cab or at the rear.

Capabilities

• Ideal for medium to heavy lifting tasks (up to 30 tonnes, depending on configuration).

• Excellent maneuverability for urban or narrow site environments.

• Can load and unload themselves, making them extremely efficient for quick deliveries.

• Suitable for carrying building materials, small machinery, and containers.

Common Uses

• Construction site deliveries

• Palletized goods transport

• Utility and infrastructure work

2. Articulated Hiab Trucks (Knuckle Boom Cranes)

Overview

Articulated Hiab trucks, also known as knuckle boom cranes, use multiple jointed sections that “fold” like a human finger. This makes them compact yet highly flexible for intricate lifting operations.

Capabilities

• Can extend and maneuver around obstacles, perfect for tight spaces.

• Offer impressive precision when positioning heavy loads.

• Suitable for lifting at both short and long reaches.

• Can handle payloads from a few hundred kilograms up to over 80 tonnes (depending on model).

Common Uses

• Machinery installation or removal

• Rooftop deliveries (tiles, HVAC units, etc.)

• Utility pole installation

• Transporting irregular-shaped items

3. Fixed Boom Hiab Trucks

Overview

A fixed boom Hiab truck features a straight, non-articulated crane arm. It’s simpler than an articulated system and is typically used for straightforward, vertical lifts.

Capabilities

• Strong and stable for heavy vertical lifts.

• Easier to operate and maintain.

• Ideal for construction sites with clear overhead space.

Common Uses

• Lifting containers or heavy materials directly up and down.

• Industrial and port operations.

• Short-distance transport of large, dense items.

4. Rear-Mounted Hiab Trucks

Overview

These Hiab trucks have the crane mounted at the rear of the vehicle, which allows for better reach when loading or unloading from behind.

Capabilities

• Provides maximum bed space for carrying large or long loads.

• The rear position gives greater flexibility when loading from behind or the sides.

• Often used where on-site maneuvering space is limited.

Common Uses

• Delivering building supplies to construction sites.

• Loading/unloading plant and machinery.

• Long-distance freight combined with on-site lifting.

5. Front-Mounted Hiab Trucks

Overview

With the crane positioned behind the cab, front-mounted Hiab trucks offer improved weight distribution and visibility for the operator.

Capabilities

• Better balance and stability during lifts.

• Ideal for frequent loading and unloading.

• Easier to use when lifting over the front or sides of the vehicle.

Common Uses

• Material deliveries to difficult or confined sites.

• Landscaping and civil engineering projects.

• Short-haul logistics requiring multiple stops.

6. Trailer-Mounted Hiab Trucks

Overview

Sometimes, the Hiab crane is mounted on a separate trailer rather than the truck itself. This setup allows for more flexible configurations, especially when heavy loads need to be distributed across multiple axles.

Capabilities

• Excellent for long or heavy loads such as steel beams or timber.

• Can detach the trailer for greater maneuverability.

• Offers increased payload capacity.

Common Uses

• Construction material transport.

• Hauling modular homes or prefabricated structures.

• Agricultural and forestry applications.

Choosing the Right Hiab Truck

Selecting the right Hiab truck depends on your load type, environment, and operational needs. Here’s a quick guide:

Advantages of Using a Hiab Truck

• Reduced labour costs – no need for separate crane hire.

• Faster loading/unloading – minimizes downtime.

• Versatility – can handle various types of cargo and environments.

• Improved safety – controlled hydraulic systems and modern stability features.

• Cost-effective transport solution – one vehicle, multiple uses.

Conclusion

Hiab trucks have revolutionized the way industries handle heavy lifting and transport. From compact articulated units to large trailer-mounted configurations, there’s a Hiab solution for nearly every type of job. Understanding the different types and their capabilities ensures you choose the right one, saving time, improving safety, and boosting operational efficiency.

Whether you’re moving building materials, machinery, or specialized equipment, a hire Hiab truck that offers power, precision, and flexibility in one robust package.