How All-Terrain Models Live Up to Their Name

When jobsites demand mobility, fast setup, and strong lifting capacities, all-terrain (AT) cranes rise to the challenge. These cranes are the preferred choice for projects ranging from tower crane erection to urban construction and wind turbine maintenance.

"These cranes are ideally suited for tower crane and cell tower erection, urban construction, and general lifting applications," said Dustin Hamburg, product manager at Tadano.

Why All-Terrain Cranes Dominate Heavy Lifting

• Superior Mobility – AT cranes are engineered to traverse difficult terrain with ease.

• Long Boom Reach – With substantial boom length, these cranes can lift heavy loads at steep angles.

• Flexible Transport – AT cranes comply with road regulations thanks to quick connections for the main boom, outriggers, and axles.

• Growing Demand – The 400+ ton AT crane market is booming, driven by data center construction and wind energy projects.

"The rise in data center construction has increased demand for AT cranes over 400 tons," said Joshua Boyer, GMK application sales manager at Manitowoc Cranes. "Many sites require cranes with a 300-foot-plus radius to lift chillers deep into roof systems."

New Technologies Enhancing AT Cranes

Manufacturers are innovating to increase efficiency, precision, and safety:

Link-Belt’s Latest AT Models (175|AT, 225|AT, 300|AT)

• Cummins X15 engines & ZF TRAXON transmissions
• Smart Stack counterweight detection
• Pulse 2.0 Rated Capacity Limiter
• Wireless rigging remote for single-operator efficiency

Grove GMK6450-1: 500-Ton Capacity with MAXbase Stability

• 197-foot, five-section boom
• 259-foot luffing jib option
• Self-rigging MegaWingLift for increased lift capacity
• Grove Connect telematics for real-time monitoring

Tadano AC 5.250L-2: 30% Higher Lift Capacity

• 259.2-foot main boom
• 357.6-foot max system length
• IC-1 Plus for live capacity calculations
• Surround View for enhanced safety and positioning

"The AC 5.250L-2 is perfect for urban applications, like lifting air conditioning units over obstacles onto tall buildings," said Hamburg.

The Future of All-Terrain Cranes in North America

According to industry experts, the AT crane market is set for continued growth:

"Large-scale infrastructure and industrial projects are fueling strong demand," noted Boyer.
"We foresee continued expansion in civil, energy, and technology sectors through 2025," added Hamburg.

"Smaller-tonnage ATs are entering the taxi crane market, while larger models with extended reach are tackling bigger projects," said Andrew Soper, product manager at Link-Belt.

Real-World AT Crane Success Stories

D Crane Rental: High-Rise Apartment Construction

For a 100-unit apartment complex in Lexington, Kentucky, D Crane Rental deployed its 175-ton Link-Belt 175|AT to lift prefabricated room bundles at a 210-foot radius.

"As we went up with the structure, we needed a bigger crane with the right boom angles," said Lehigh Mocsh, crane operator at D Crane Rental.

NessCampbell & Western Towboat: Precision in Shipyard Lifting

A 500-ton Grove GMK6450-1 played a central role in assembling a new towboat in Seattle.

"Bringing the GMK6450-1 into a crowded shipyard required meticulous planning," said Josh Buege, project manager at NessCampbell. "Its reliability and precision ensured a smooth assembly."

The Power of AT Cranes in Construction & Beyond

With cutting-edge technology, increased lifting capacity, and growing demand, all-terrain cranes continue to be the go-to solution for complex lifting projects across multiple industries.

For the latest innovations in all-terrain crane technology, trust leaders like Tadano, Manitowoc, and Link-Belt to deliver power, precision, and efficiency.