Free Standing Bridge Cranes for Sale
Freestanding Bridge Crane System Design, Installation & Price

A free standing bridge crane is a type of overhead crane that supports itself. It doesn't rely on your building’s structure—instead, it stands on its own steel columns and beams. This makes it a great option for workshops or factories where the building can’t support a crane, or where structural changes are too expensive.

So, why choose a free standing crane instead of a building-supported one?

• You don’t need to modify your building.
• It’s easy to install in older or lightweight structures.
• You can move or expand the system later if needed.

These cranes are commonly used in:

• Manufacturing plants
• Warehouses
• Maintenance and repair shops
• Small- to mid-sized workshops

They’re ideal for places that need safe and efficient overhead lifting, but can’t or don’t want to install a crane on the building structure.

In this guide, we’ll explain how these cranes work, how to design the right system, and what to know about installation and pricing—so you can choose the right freestanding bridge crane for your needs.

Free Standing Bridge Crane System Design Overview

A free standing bridge crane system is built from several core components, all working together to provide safe, efficient overhead lifting—without relying on your building for support.

Key Components of a Free Standing Crane System

• Runway columns – Vertical support structures that are anchored to the floor. They form the main support framework of the crane system.
• Runway beams – Horizontal beams mounted on the columns that guide the bridge's travel along the system length.
• Bridge girder – The beam that spans between the runway beams and carries the trolley and hoist.
• Hoist and trolley – The hoist does the lifting, while the trolley allows it to move across the bridge.

Design Variations to Match Your Lifting Needs

• Single girder cranes – More compact and cost-effective. Ideal for light to medium loads (like 1 to 10 tons).
• Double girder cranes – Provide more lifting height and handle heavier loads (10 tons and above). Suitable for longer spans or higher frequency use.

Modular Design and Customization

One of the great things about free standing crane design is how modular it is. That means:

• Easy to expand or reconfigure as your workflow changes
• Compatible with different hoist types (electric chain, wire rope, manual)
• Options for custom span lengths, lifting height, and column spacing
• Can be fitted with accessories like festoon systems, limit switches, or remote controls

Fits Around Your Facility, Not the Other Way Around

Unlike building-supported cranes, free standing systems are flexible. You don’t have to redesign your space—they’re designed to fit your space. Whether your workshop is narrow, has low ceilings, or needs to avoid certain equipment or paths, the system layout can be tailored to:

• Your available floor space
• Obstructions or clearance limits
• Material flow or workstations
• Load types and lifting paths

With a solid free standing bridge crane system, you're not locked into one setup—it adapts with your operations.

Pricing Guide

Keywords: free standing bridge crane price, free standing crane for sale cost

Understanding the cost structure of a freestanding bridge crane helps you plan and budget effectively.

Key Factors Affecting Price

• Lifting capacity: Heavier capacities require stronger structures (e.g., 10-ton vs. 5-ton).
• Span length and lifting height: Longer spans and higher lifts need more material and custom engineering.
• Design type: Single girder is more economical; double girder adds cost but improves hook height and stability.
• Features: Options like radio remote control, anti-sway, and inverter control add to the price.

Price Comparison: Free Standing vs. Building-Supported Cranes

Additional Costs to Consider

• Foundation work: $2,000–$10,000 depending on soil and size
• Installation & commissioning: Typically 10–15% of crane cost
• Routine maintenance: Annual cost varies by usage, but plan ~3–5% of crane cost per year

Typical Price Ranges

Prices vary depending on customization, span, control type, and country-specific installation services.

Advantages of Free Standing Bridge Cranes

Free standing bridge cranes offer clear benefits, especially for facilities where building structure support isn't practical or even possible. These systems stand on their own steel columns and don’t rely on your building’s roof or walls for support.

Here’s why many workshops and factories prefer them:

• Independent from Building Structure
  Perfect for leased spaces or older buildings with weak ceilings or low load-bearing capacity.
• Easier to Relocate or Expand Later
  Planning to move or expand in the future? A freestanding bridge crane can often be dismantled and reinstalled elsewhere.
• Ideal for Temporary Setups
  In cases where operations might move within a few years, free standing cranes are far more flexible than fixed alternatives.
• Space-Saving in Tight Layouts
  Column positions can be customized to avoid interfering with your workflow or machinery.

If your facility changes often, or you're renting your space, these freestanding systems could be the right long-term investment.

How to Choose the Right Free Standing Bridge Crane

Picking the right crane starts with knowing your space and your lifting needs. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution—especially for freestanding systems, which are typically tailored to fit.

Here’s what to consider when choosing:

• Understand Your Facility Conditions
  Look at ceiling height, floor strength, available space, and any potential obstructions.
• Match Capacity and Span to Your Loads
  Know your maximum load weight, how often you'll lift it, and the working area the crane should cover.
• Think About Control and Safety
  Do you need simple push-button control or wireless remote control? Is load visibility critical?
• Keep Installation and Budget in Mind
  Don’t just look at crane cost—foundation work, shipping, and local installation all add up.
• Consult with Crane Suppliers or Engineers
  A quick talk with an expert can help avoid over- or under-designing the system.

Remember, choosing a freestanding bridge crane is about balancing what your facility needs now and how it might evolve in the next 5 to 10 years.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the floor requirements for a free standing bridge crane?
A reinforced concrete floor is typically required. The thickness usually ranges from 6 to 12 inches, depending on the crane’s capacity and the column base design. Specific requirements are provided in the technical documentation.

Can a freestanding crane be relocated?
Yes. Freestanding bridge cranes are designed for flexibility and can be dismantled and moved to a new location, making them ideal for leased facilities or evolving production lines.

What kind of maintenance is needed?
Regular maintenance includes inspecting the hoist, checking fasteners and anchor bolts, lubricating moving parts, and verifying electrical controls. Most systems are built for easy servicing and long-term reliability.

How long does installation take?
Installation time varies by crane size and site conditions. A typical 5-ton freestanding bridge crane may take 3 to 5 days to install, including alignment, anchoring, and testing. Larger or more complex systems may require more time.

Send Us An Inquiry

If you're looking for a free standing bridge crane for sale, we’re here to provide expert guidance and fast support.

To get started, send us your facility layout and lifting requirements. We'll prepare a customized solution with:

• Technical drawings and crane specifications
• A detailed quotation based on your application
• Optional support for installation and maintenance

For a personalized consultation and accurate quote on freestanding cranes , contact our team today.