20 Ton Overhead Crane Buyer's Guide — Selection & Purchase Tips
How to Choose, Configure, and Purchase the Right Crane for Your Plant

Buyers come from a wide mix of industries, but they tend to share similar operational needs:

• Factory owners looking to improve in-house lifting efficiency instead of outsourcing heavy tasks.
• Plant maintenance managers who need a reliable crane for regular equipment repair and replacement.
• Workshop engineers planning production lines for handling steel materials, molds, or machine parts safely and efficiently.

Each buyer may have different floor layouts or workflows, but the goal is usually the same — a crane that lifts safely, runs smoothly, and fits into existing infrastructure.

You'll see 20-ton cranes doing all sorts of tough jobs, including:

• Steel handling: lifting coils, plates, beams, or fabricated frames.
• Machinery assembly: aligning engines, gearboxes, or other large mechanical parts.
• Mold handling: moving injection molds or casting molds between stations.
• Maintenance work: lifting turbines, generators, or other large components for repair.

These are all tasks where a 10-ton crane might struggle — but anything heavier would be unnecessary or uneconomical.

If you're in the process of selecting a 20-ton overhead crane, this guide will help you make practical, informed decisions. It covers:

• Crane type and structure: single vs. double girder, top-running vs. under-running.
• Configuration: lifting height, span, control mode, and power supply.
• Cost factors: what really affects the total price and long-term cost.
• Supplier selection: what to check before placing an order or signing a contract.

Buying a 20-ton crane isn't just about capacity — it's about fitting the right equipment into your working environment and long-term production plans.

When it comes to a 20-ton overhead crane, several basic parameters decide how well it will work in your plant. These are the details suppliers need to prepare an accurate solution and price.

Capacity

A "20-ton" crane means it's rated to safely lift a maximum of 20 tons. But here's the catch — some cranes use two hooks or two trolleys, especially for long or uneven loads. If you're lifting molds, large frames, or spread-out objects, confirm whether you need a single 20-ton hook or two 10-ton hooks working together.

Span

This is the distance between the two runway beams that support the crane. Common spans range from 10 to 30 meters, depending on your building width. The right span ensures the crane travels smoothly without structural stress or misalignment.

Lifting Height

Lifting height refers to how far the hook can travel up and down. Always check your building height and clearance under the roof truss. If the hook can't reach high enough, or if the hoist hits the beam too early, operations will be limited.

Working Class

This defines how frequently and intensively the crane can operate.

• A3–A4: For light to moderate use — ideal for maintenance or low-duty applications.
• A5–A6: For daily, continuous operations in workshops or production lines.
  Choosing the right class helps extend the crane's lifespan and reduces maintenance issues.

Lifting Speed

Lifting speed affects how quickly loads move — and how precisely they stop.

• Single-speed hoists are fine for general lifting.
• Variable-speed (inverter-controlled) systems allow smoother starts and stops, reducing swing and improving accuracy, especially for assembly or mold positioning work.

Control Mode

You can choose how the operator controls the crane:

• Pendant control: Simple and low-cost, ideal for short spans.
• Remote control: Improves safety and convenience; allows the operator to stand at a safe distance.
• Cabin control: For large cranes or long spans where visibility and comfort matter.

Power Supply

Always match the crane's electrical system to your local standard:

• 380V / 50Hz: Common in most Asian and European regions.
• 415V / 50Hz: Common in the Middle East and Australia.
• 440V / 60Hz: Often used in the Americas and some industrial zones.
  Confirm this early — it affects motor selection and control components.

Knowing the technical terms is one thing — understanding how they affect your actual operations is another. Here's what these specifications really mean on the shop floor.

Working Class (A3–A6)

If you see "A5" in a specification, it means the crane is designed for continuous daily use, handling heavy loads frequently. This isn't a light-duty crane for occasional lifts — it's built to work hard every day without wearing out prematurely. Choosing the correct working class ensures reliability and longer service life.

Lifting Height

This is the distance your hook can move up and down. Make sure your building has enough headroom so the hook doesn't hit the roof, trusses, or trolley. If you're lifting tall molds, equipment, or assembled machines, miscalculating the lifting height can cause delays or even unsafe conditions.

Span

The distance between runway beams affects more than just the crane's coverage. A longer span can increase the crane's overall cost, require heavier girders, and increase wheel load on your building structure. On the other hand, a shorter span may limit your working area. Choosing the right span balances operational flexibility and structural feasibility.

Practical Tip:
A 20-ton crane with a longer span or higher duty class will generally cost more because the main girders, end trucks, and supporting structure must be reinforced to safely handle the load. Planning these details early saves money and avoids surprises during installation.

When it comes to 20-ton overhead cranes, one of the first decisions you'll face is single vs. double girder. This choice impacts cost, installation, and how efficiently you can lift loads in your workshop.

Top Running Single Girder Overhead Crane

• Lower cost — requires less steel and simpler structure.
• Lighter weight — easier to install and maintain.
• Compact design — ideal if your building height is limited or headroom is low.
• Best for: Light-to-moderate lifting frequency, smaller spans, and workshops where budget is a priority.

Top Running Double Girder Overhead Crane

• Higher lifting height — hook can travel higher since the hoist sits on top of the girders.
• Longer span capability — suitable for wider buildings.
• More stable and durable — ideal for frequent, heavy-duty lifting.
• Best for: Busy production lines, steel fabrication plants, or large maintenance shops.

Key Decision Points:

• Building height and headroom
• Load handling frequency and duty class
• Budget and installation constraints

Tip: If your operation is heavy and continuous, double girder cranes usually provide better long-term value despite higher upfront costs.

How your crane is powered and controlled is just as important as its structure. This affects safety, convenience, and operational efficiency.

Overview: Built for heavy-duty, high-frequency lifting.

Span & Height: Supports long spans and higher lifting heights.

Best For: Production lines, steel fabrication, and maintenance facilities with frequent or continuous lifting.

Special Features: Can integrate maintenance platforms, operator cabins, and auxiliary hoists; provides superior stability and durability.

Overview: Modern design focusing on efficiency and smooth operation.

Best For: Workshops seeking energy efficiency and precise load control.

Special Features: Compact structure, inverter-controlled hoist for smooth lifting, reduced energy consumption, lighter overall weight.

Overview: Designed for hazardous environments like chemical plants, paint workshops, or gas-handling areas.

Standards: Conforms to Ex safety standards.

Special Features: Special motors, wiring, and control protection against sparks or ignition; suitable for environments with flammable gases or dust.

Overview: Specialized for high-temperature operations in steel mills or foundries.

Best For: Handling molten metal, heavy ingots, or steel billets.

Special Features: Heat-resistant components, reinforced structure, and robust safety features for extreme environments.

Overview: Built to withstand weather conditions while maintaining safe operation.

Best For: Ports, yards, or open workshops.

Special Features: Rainproof and windproof design, anti-corrosion coating, and optional weather protection covers for motors and electronics.

Buying Tip: Don't choose a crane based solely on tonnage. Consider operation frequency, working environment, lifting height, and span requirements to ensure long-term efficiency and safety.

Determines the frequency and intensity of crane operation:

• A3–A4: Light to moderate use, suitable for occasional lifting.
• A5–A6: Heavy-duty, continuous use in busy production lines.

Selecting the correct duty class ensures durability and reduces maintenance costs over the crane's lifetime.

• Pendant control: Simple and cost-effective, operator stays near the load.
• Remote control: Enhances safety and flexibility; operator can control the crane from a safe distance.
• Cabin control: Recommended for long spans or high-frequency operations; provides excellent visibility and comfort.
• Control choice can be customized to match workflow and operator preferences.

• Cranes can be adapted to local voltage and frequency standards (e.g., 380V, 400V, 415V; 50Hz or 60Hz).
• Ensures reliable operation and avoids costly electrical modifications during installation.

Depending on your materials and workflow, additional attachments can be installed:

• Magnet: For steel plate or billet handling.
• Grab: For bulk material lifting.
• C-hook: For lifting coils or rolls.
• Spreader beam: For oversized or irregular loads.

• Outdoor coating: Guards against rain, sun, and dust exposure.
• Heat-resistant design: Suitable for foundries and high-temperature operations.
• Explosion-proof features: For chemical plants, paint shops, or flammable environments.

• Anti-sway systems: Reduce load swing for safer handling.
• Position memory: Ensures precise, repeatable lifts.
• Semi-automatic operation: Improves efficiency in repetitive or continuous lifting tasks.

Practical Note: Providing workshop drawings, building dimensions, lifting requirements, and environmental conditions is essential for precise customization. Accurate details help design a crane that fits your site safely, efficiently, and reliably.

Customizing a 20-ton overhead travelling crane ensures it isn't just a standard piece of equipment — it becomes a site-specific, high-performance lifting solution for your workshop.

In steel workshops, 20-ton cranes are frequently used to lift steel plates (5–15 tons), beams (10–20 tons), and bundled sections (12–18 tons).

• Why 20 tons is chosen: It covers the majority of heavy steel handling tasks without overloading building structures or requiring oversized cranes.
• Recommended crane type: Double girder cranes with magnet lifting attachments.
• Special features: Strong main girders, high duty class (A5–A6), smooth trolley movement, and optional inverter-controlled hoists for precise positioning.

For machinery assembly and component movement, a 20-ton crane handles machine frames (8–15 tons), engines (10–18 tons), and large gearboxes (5–12 tons).

• Why 20 tons is chosen: Most industrial machines fall under this weight range, making it efficient without oversizing the crane.
• Recommended crane type: European-style double girder cranes with inverter-controlled hoists.
• Special features: Smooth lifting, precise positioning, low vibration — essential when assembling delicate or heavy machinery parts.

Moving molds, formwork, or reinforced concrete products often involves loads of 8–20 tons per unit, including large molds and concrete panels.

• Why 20 tons is chosen: Provides enough capacity for heavy precast elements while fitting standard workshop or yard layouts.
• Recommended crane type: Double girder or top-running cranes.
• Special features: Adjustable lifting height, higher span capacity, optional remote control for outdoor or large-area operation.

Maintenance tasks require lifting pumps, motors, turbines, and spare equipment ranging from 5–20 tons.

• Why 20 tons is chosen: Covers most maintenance tasks in a single crane without needing multiple smaller cranes.
• Recommended crane type: Single or double girder depending on space and load frequency.
• Special features: Compact design for smaller workshops, easy installation, moderate duty class (A3–A5) for intermittent heavy lifts.

Handling turbines, generators, and transformers can involve loads from 10 up to 20 tons for smaller units; larger equipment may require multiple cranes or higher capacity.

• Why 20 tons is chosen: Suitable for medium-sized components, repairs, and routine maintenance without oversizing the crane system.
• Recommended crane type: Heavy-duty double girder or European-standard cranes with high duty class (A5–A6).
• Special features: Precision positioning, semi-automatic operation, inverter control for smooth lifting, and optional anti-sway systems.

Buyer Tip: The 20-ton overhead crane is adopted widely because it balances lifting capacity, building compatibility, and cost efficiency. Typical loads in most workshops and plants fall within this range, making it the practical choice for steel, machinery, maintenance, and precast operations. Consider the operating environment, load frequency, and special features like magnet hooks, inverter speed control, or anti-sway systems to match your exact needs.

• Measure available headroom to ensure the hook can travel the full lifting height without obstruction.
• Check lateral clearance so the crane can move freely across the span.
• Take into account overhead piping, lighting, or other equipment that may interfere with crane operation.

• Verify your facility's voltage and frequency (380V, 400V, 415V, 50Hz, 60Hz).
• Correct voltage avoids motor issues, ensures smooth operation, and prevents costly electrical modifications.

• Self-installation with guidance: Suitable if your team has experience and tools; supplier can provide technical support and manuals.
• On-site professional installation: Recommended for complex setups or high-duty cranes to ensure safety, proper alignment, and commissioning.

• Provide accurate building layouts, runway beam positions, and lifting points.
• Include photos of the installation area to highlight potential obstacles.
• Detailed documentation helps suppliers provide precise design, quotation, and customization options.

☑ Confirm lifting requirements (load weight, frequency, and special attachments)
☑ Provide workshop drawings or clear photos
☑ Describe the working environment (indoor, outdoor, high temperature, hazardous)
☑ Mention any special lifting attachments needed (magnet, grab, C-hook, spreader beam)

Practical Note: Preparing these details before requesting a quotation ensures your 20-ton crane fits your workshop perfectly, operates safely, and avoids costly changes during installation. This preparation step is critical — it saves headaches, ensures accurate pricing, and guarantees a smooth installation process.

Many buyers add features to improve efficiency, safety, or versatility. These optional upgrades will affect overall cost:

• Inverter for smooth speed control
• Automation systems (anti-sway, positioning memory, semi-auto operation)
• Special lifting attachments (magnet, grab, C-hook, spreader beam)
• Safety devices (overload protection, limit switches, warning alarms)

Choosing the right optional features ensures efficiency and long-term reliability.

• Transport cost depends on crane span, weight, and container requirements.
• Long-span cranes may require flat-rack shipping or special handling.
• For local delivery, consider crane lifting and placement at site.

• Building height and span: Higher or wider spans require more steel and stronger structures.
• Installation complexity: Tight spaces, uneven floors, or special foundations can increase cost.
• Outdoor vs indoor: Weatherproofing or environmental protection adds to the price.

• Maintenance costs: More durable components reduce frequent repairs.
• Spare part durability: Ensures the crane can operate without unexpected downtime.
• Operational efficiency: Smooth, precise, and energy-efficient cranes save money over time.

Buyer Tip: The lowest quote is often incomplete — it may not include optional features, shipping, installation, or environmental protection. Always confirm the full configuration and after-sales support before comparing prices.

Proper lubrication reduces wear and keeps moving parts running smoothly:

• Follow the manufacturer's lubrication schedule for hoists, bearings, and gears.
• Use specified grease or oil; avoid generic alternatives that may cause premature wear.
• High-temperature or dusty conditions may require more frequent lubrication.

• Inspect contactors, fuses, and wiring for wear, corrosion, or overheating.
• Check insulation and ensure all electrical connections are tight and secure.
• Confirm proper grounding to prevent electrical faults and equipment damage.

• Monthly: Trained technician performs basic inspection of mechanical and electrical components.
• Yearly: Full inspection including load testing, rope replacement, and brake adjustment to comply with safety regulations.

• Stock essential items such as wire ropes, contactors, fuses, and brake components.
• Monitor usage and plan replacements based on manufacturer guidelines and actual crane workload.
• Keep fast-moving spares on-site, especially for remote or high-demand operations.

Yes. Outdoor cranes require weather protection, such as waterproof motors, corrosion-resistant paint, and enclosures for electronics. Consider wind, rain, and temperature conditions at your site for safe operation.

A structural engineer should verify that your building or workshop can support the crane, trolley, and maximum load. Proper runway beams and foundation support are essential for safety.

Most suppliers provide a standard 12-month warranty after commissioning. Some may extend coverage for major components like motors or hoists. Always check the contract for details.

Professional suppliers often provide installation guidance, on-site commissioning, and operator training. Clarify what is included, especially if your staff is inexperienced with overhead crane operation.

Suppliers should provide comprehensive documentation:

• Operation and maintenance manuals
• Test and load certification reports
• Safety and compliance certificates (ISO, CE, or third-party inspection)

Having these documents ensures compliance and supports long-term maintenance planning.