Build Process March 2026
One of the first questions people ask when they see our studios is: how do you actually get a finished building into a backyard?
The answer is a crane, a transport crew, prepared footings, and a lot of planning that happens before delivery day. A fully finished, architect-designed dwelling — complete with kitchen, bathroom, electrical, and plumbing — arrives on the back of a truck and gets lifted into position in hours.
This guide covers everything you need to know about crane delivery for modular buildings in South East Queensland: the different crane types, verified 2026 hire rates from our actual suppliers, real load chart data, Outhaus module weights, site access requirements, and practical strategies to keep your delivery cost-effective.
If you’re considering a modular studio, granny flat, or micro home for your acreage property in Brisbane, Moreton Bay, the Sunshine Coast, or the hinterland — this is the most comprehensive crane delivery guide you’ll find.
Why Modular Buildings Need Crane Delivery
A modular dwelling is built in a controlled factory environment, transported to your property on a flatbed truck, and then lifted off and placed onto prepared footings or a slab. That lifting step is where the crane comes in.
Unlike a traditional site-built home where materials arrive in pieces and get assembled stick-by-stick, a modular building arrives substantially complete. Walls, roof, flooring, internal linings, even wet areas — they’re all finished before the module leaves the factory. The trade-off for all that factory efficiency is that you need a way to pick up a large, heavy, finished object and place it with precision.
The crane isn’t just about raw lifting power — it’s about precision placement. Your module needs to land exactly on prepared footings, aligned to engineering specifications, level, and oriented correctly. A good crane operator can place a module to within millimetres of its target position. That’s the difference between a module that bolts straight down and one that requires hours of adjustment.
Outhaus Module Weights — The Key Number for Crane Selection
The weight of your module is the single most important number in planning delivery. It determines which crane you need, how close the crane needs to get, and ultimately how much the lift will cost. Every decision flows from this number.
The industry rule of thumb for estimating modular building weight is approximately 100–170 kg per square metre of floor area for a single-storey, fully fitted light gauge steel frame module.
Outhaus Module Specifications — 3.4m Wide Series (Current)
| Model | Length | Width | GFA | Est. Module Weight | Lift Weight (incl. rigging) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| H5 Workhaus | 4.8 m | 3.4 m | ~16.3 m² | ~3.0–3.5 t | ~3.5–4.0 t |
| H6 Studio | 6.0 m | 3.4 m | ~20.4 m² | ~4.0–4.5 t | ~4.5–5.0 t |
| H8 Fullhaus | 8.4 m | 3.4 m | ~28.6 m² | ~5.5–6.5 t | ~6.0–7.0 t |
Upcoming 4.0m Wide Series
| Model | Length | Width | GFA | Est. Module Weight | Lift Weight (incl. rigging) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Haus 8.4 | 8.4 m | 4.0 m | ~33.6 m² | ~5.5–6.5 t | ~6.0–7.0 t |
| Haus 10.8 | 10.8 m | 4.0 m | ~43.2 m² | ~6.5–7.5 t | ~7.0–8.0 t |
| Haus 13.5 | 13.5 m | 4.0 m | ~54.0 m² | ~7.5–8.5 t | ~8.0–9.0 t |
Weights based on steel frame + full fit-out. Always add 200–800 kg for rigging gear (hook block, slings, shackles, spreader bars). Transport widths: 3.4m series ≈ 3.5m with gutters; 4.0m series ≈ 4.1m. All require pilot vehicle escort.
Why Steel Frame Matters for Delivery
Light gauge steel framing offers one of the best strength-to-weight ratios in construction. A steel-framed module can be structurally stronger than an equivalent timber-framed module while weighing less overall — which means you can often use a smaller crane, translating directly to lower delivery costs and more site flexibility.
Steel frames also handle the stresses of lifting better than timber. When a crane picks up a module, the structure experiences forces it doesn’t encounter in normal use — point loads at the lifting points, dynamic forces during the swing, and different load paths than gravity alone. Steel’s predictable behaviour under these conditions makes it the preferred framing material for modular construction globally.
Crane Types for Modular Building Delivery in Queensland
Choosing the right crane is a balance between lifting capacity, reach, site access, and cost. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what’s available in the SEQ market, based on the actual fleet from our crane suppliers.
1. Franna Cranes (Pick-and-Carry) — 25T to 40T
The Franna is an Australian invention and the workhorse of residential and light commercial crane hire. It’s a pick-and-carry crane, meaning it can lift a load and then drive with it — no outrigger legs needed. This is a significant advantage on residential sites.
Our primary crane supplier, Burpengary Crane Hire (Caboolture, CICA & NATA certified), operates two Franna models ideal for Outhaus deliveries:
Maximum capacity 25 tonnes. Boom ~16 metres. Dynamic LMI system. Road registered — drives to site at highway speed. Ideal for H5 Workhaus at close access.
Maximum capacity 40 tonnes. Boom 19.8 metres. 3-axle with no removable counterweight. 80 km/h road speed. 29,500 kg tare weight. The primary crane for most standard Outhaus deliveries where access is good.
C42 (Terex AT40 Franna) — Verified Pick & Carry Capacity at Radius
This is the critical table. A crane’s rated capacity is only achievable at minimum radius. As you reach further out, capacity drops dramatically:
| Radius | Capacity | Outhaus Suitability |
|---|---|---|
| 1 m | 40.0 t | All Outhaus modules |
| 2 m | 34.1 t | All Outhaus modules |
| 3 m | 22.0 t | All Outhaus modules |
| 4 m | 16.5 t | All Outhaus modules |
| 5 m | 12.8 t | All Outhaus modules |
| 6 m | 8.5 t | All modules up to Haus 13.5 |
| 7 m | 6.1 t | H5, H6, H8, Haus 8.4 |
| 8 m | 4.7 t | H5, H6 only |
| 9 m | 3.8 t | H5 only |
| 10 m | 3.2 t | H5 only (marginal) |
Data sourced from BCH C42 load chart (Terex AT40). Suitable module weight accounts for rigging gear (200–500 kg) and standard safety factor (75–80% utilisation).
The practical takeaway: for a typical Outhaus studio weighing 4.5–5.0 tonnes (lift weight), the AT40 Franna can handle the job provided it can park within about 7–8 metres of the placement location. On most acreage properties in South East Queensland, this is achievable. The Franna drives in on the driveway, positions itself near the pad, lifts the module off the delivery truck, and places it. Simple, efficient, cost-effective.
2. All-Terrain Mobile Cranes — 60T to 100T+
When a Franna can’t get close enough, or the module is too heavy for the available reach, the next step up is an all-terrain mobile crane. These travel on public roads and set up on site using hydraulic outriggers.
Our suppliers operate two Liebherr all-terrain cranes that cover the full range of Outhaus modules:
48-metre main boom. Fly jib 9.5–16 m. VarioBase outrigger system. 3-axle. Hook blocks: 60t / 30t / 13t. TELEMATIK telescoping. The primary crane for most Outhaus modules when reach beyond 8 m is needed.
50-metre main boom plus fly jib to 25 m. Hydraulic swing-away jib. 4-axle. Multiple boom configurations. 75 m max tip height. For heavy modules, long reach, or lifting over obstacles.
C60 (Liebherr LTM 1060) — Capacity at Radius
| Radius | Capacity | Suitable For | Boom Length | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 m | ~55 t | All modules | 10.4 m | OK |
| 5 m | ~34 t | All modules | 10.4 m | OK |
| 8 m | ~19 t | All modules | 18 m | OK |
| 10 m | ~14 t | All modules | 18 m | OK |
| 14 m | ~8.5 t | All modules up to Haus 13.5 | 26 m | OK |
| 18 m | ~5.5 t | H5, H6, H8, Haus 8.4 | 34 m | Limited |
| 22 m | ~3.8 t | H5 only | 34 m | Insufficient |
| 26 m | ~2.8 t | Below module range | 40 m | Insufficient |
| 30 m | ~2.0 t | Below module range | 48 m | Insufficient |
C90 (Liebherr LTM 1090) — Capacity at Radius
| Radius | Capacity | Suitable For | Boom Length | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 m | ~82 t | All modules | 11.3 m | OK |
| 5 m | ~48 t | All modules | 11.3 m | OK |
| 8 m | ~28 t | All modules | 20 m | OK |
| 10 m | ~21 t | All modules | 20 m | OK |
| 14 m | ~13 t | All modules | 30 m | OK |
| 18 m | ~8.5 t | All modules up to Haus 13.5 | 36 m | OK |
| 22 m | ~6.0 t | H5, H6, H8, Haus 8.4 | 40 m | Limited |
| 26 m | ~4.5 t | H5, H6 | 44 m | Limited |
| 30 m | ~3.5 t | H5 only (marginal) | 50 m | Insufficient |
| 35 m | ~2.5 t | Below module range | 50 m + jib | Insufficient |
| 40 m | ~1.8 t | Below module range | 50 m + jib | Insufficient |
60T and 90T values are approximate based on Liebherr manufacturer load charts at typical boom configurations. Always verify with the crane supplier for your specific setup.
Maximum practical crane radius for any Outhaus module — using a 90T crane for lighter models. Beyond 25 metres, no crane in our suppliers’ fleet can lift a complete Outhaus module.
All-terrain cranes need outriggers — hydraulic legs that extend out from the crane body and press down on pads to stabilise the crane during lifting. For a 60-tonne crane, you need a firm, level area of about 6 m × 6 m minimum. The crane itself can weigh 30–80 tonnes, so the ground must support this concentrated load.
3. Crane Truck (HIAB)
A crane truck is a flatbed truck with a hydraulic knuckle-boom crane mounted behind the cab. Capacities typically range from 3 to 12 tonnes, with working reach of 8–18 metres. For modular studios, a crane truck can work for very compact, lightweight modules — a 15–20 m² garden office pod weighing under 3 tonnes. For anything larger, the capacity at useful reach distances is generally insufficient.
4. Telehandler (Lull / Manitou)
A telehandler is essentially a forklift with a telescopic boom. Capacities run from 2.5 to 4 tonnes at height, with reach of 6–17 metres. At around $600 per day to hire, they’re significantly cheaper than a crane — but they generally can’t handle a complete, fitted-out module. Some modular builders design their systems to be telehandler-compatible by breaking buildings into sections light enough for a telehandler to manage.
Reach vs. Capacity — The Physics That Drives Everything
This is the concept that most people don’t grasp intuitively, and it’s the single biggest factor in crane selection and cost.
Think about holding a heavy object. If you hold it close to your chest, you can manage significant weight. Now extend your arm fully and hold the same object straight out. Much harder. You might not be able to hold it at all. This is exactly how a crane works. The further the crane has to reach, the less it can lift.
The formal term is load radius — the horizontal distance from the crane’s centre pin to the centre of the load. As load radius increases, lifting capacity decreases steeply. A crane rated at 40 tonnes at 1 m radius manages just 4.7 tonnes at 8 m and 3.2 tonnes at 10 m.
The difference between parking the crane 5 metres vs 15 metres from the pad could be the difference between a $1,500 Franna hire and a $6,000 all-terrain crane.
Crane Selection Matrix — Which Crane for Which Module?
This table shows the recommended crane class based on your module type and how far the crane needs to reach:
| Module | Lift Weight | 0–6 m Radius | 6–12 m Radius | 12–18 m+ | Over Obstacles |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| H5 Workhaus | ~3.5–4.0 t | 30 T | 30 T | 30–55 T | 55–70 T |
| H6 Studio | ~4.5–5.0 t | 30 T | 30–55 T | 55–70 T | 70–100 T |
| H8 Fullhaus | ~6.0–7.0 t | 30 T | 55–70 T | 70–100 T | 100 T+ |
| Haus 10.8 | ~7.0–8.0 t | 30–55 T | 55–70 T | 70–100 T | 100 T+ |
| Haus 13.5 | ~8.0–9.0 t | 55 T | 70–100 T | 100 T+ | 100–120 T |
Final selection must always be confirmed against the specific crane’s load chart for the intended setup and configuration.
Overhead Clearance: The Other Critical Dimension
Load radius gets all the attention, but vertical clearance matters too. The crane’s boom needs to extend high enough to clear any obstacles between the crane and the placement point, then lower the module down. Power lines, tall trees, and existing structures all affect this.
Australian workplace safety regulations require a minimum 4-metre exclusion zone around overhead power lines for cranes (this distance varies with voltage — higher voltage lines require greater clearance). The crane operator has legal responsibility for maintaining this clearance and will not proceed if there’s any risk. If power lines cross your property near the crane route or placement area, you may need to coordinate with your electricity provider to temporarily de-energise or relocate lines.
Transport: Getting the Module to Your Property
Before the crane can do its work, the module has to arrive at your property on a transport vehicle.
Road Transport Limits in Queensland
| Dimension | Standard Limit | With Oversize Permits |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 2.5 metres | Up to 5+ m with pilot vehicles, restricted times, route assessment |
| Height (incl. trailer) | 4.3 metres | Up to 4.6 m with permits; higher requires route-specific approval |
| Length | ~19 m (semi) | Longer combinations possible with specific permits |
The width constraint is the most significant for modular design. A module under 3.5 metres wide can travel on most roads with standard oversize permits and a single pilot vehicle. Push beyond 4.5 metres and you’re looking at multiple escorts, restricted travel hours, detailed route surveys, and significantly higher transport costs.
For properties in areas like Laceys Creek, Samford, Mount Glorious, the D’Aguilar Range, or throughout the Moreton Bay region — typical Outhaus territory — the roads are often winding, narrow, and tree-lined. Keeping modules to a transport-friendly width isn’t just about cost; on some roads, it’s about what’s physically possible.
Access to Your Property
Key access requirements for the delivery truck include: a minimum driveway width of 3.5–4 metres (wider at corners), adequate overhead clearance for the module height on the trailer, firm ground supporting 20–30+ tonnes combined weight, and sufficient turning radius — at least 15–20 metres for a semi-trailer at bends.
The delivery truck ideally parks as close to the crane as possible, and as close to the final module position as possible. Every extra metre of distance between truck, crane, and pad either requires a larger crane or a more complex lift plan.
Crane Hire Rates in South East Queensland — 2026 Verified Pricing
The following rates are actual quoted prices from our two primary crane suppliers, current as at March 2026. All rates are ex-GST.
Burpengary Crane Hire (BCH) — Caboolture
11 Roseby Rd, Caboolture QLD 4510 | Ph: 07 5428 1118 | CICA & NATA Certified | 5% fuel levy applies | Rates valid to 30/06/2026
| Crane / Service | Rate (ex GST) | Min Hire | Fleet ID | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15T Franna | $170/hr | 2 hr | — | |
| 22T Franna | $190/hr | 2 hr | — | |
| 25T Franna | $210/hr | 2 hr | C26 | Terex MAC 25-SL. ~16 m boom |
| 40T Franna | $300/hr | 2 hr | C42 | Terex AT40. 19.8 m boom. Primary for Outhaus |
| 60T All Terrain | $330/hr | 2 hr | C60 | Liebherr LTM 1060. 48 m boom |
| 90T All Terrain | $450/hr | 4 hr | C90 | Liebherr LTM 1090. 50 m boom |
| Dogman / Rigger | $110/hr | — | — | Per person |
| Electrical Spotter | $110/hr | — | — | Per person |
| 9T Crane Truck | $160/hr | 4 hr | — | Within 100 km from depot |
Travel charged depot to depot. Normal hours: 7am–3pm Mon–Fri. Overtime $55/hr per person outside normal hours. Spreader bars and block cages included free with hire.
Brisbane City Cranes (BCC) — Northgate
5 Frederick St, Northgate QLD 4013 | Ph: 0419 176 743 | 8% fuel levy applies | Normal hours: 6am–2pm Mon–Fri
| Crane / Service | Rate (ex GST) | Min Hire | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20–25T Franna | $205/hr | 2 hr | |
| 28T Franna | $215/hr | 2 hr | Superlifter CWT $200/day metro |
| 40T City Crane | $280/hr | 2 hr | |
| 60T City Crane | $340/hr | 3 hr | CWT delivery $275 each way metro |
| 90T Crane | $400/hr | 4 hr | CWT delivery $550 each way metro |
| 100T Crane | $420/hr | 4 hr | CWT delivery $550 each way metro |
| 130T Crane | $530/hr | 4 hr | |
| Dogman / Rigger | $105/hr | 2 hr | Per person |
| Electrical Spotter | $155/hr | 4 hr | Per person |
Depot to depot. Metro = 50 km radius from Northgate. After minimum hours, 15-min increments. Overtime $60/hr per crane & dogman.
BCH vs BCC — Key Differences at a Glance
| Factor | BCH (Caboolture) | BCC (Northgate) | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel Levy | 5% | 8% | BCH saves 3% on total — adds up on larger jobs |
| Normal Hours | 7am–3pm | 6am–2pm | BCC starts and finishes 1 hour earlier |
| Depot Location | Caboolture | Northgate | BCH closer for northern SEQ / Sunshine Coast sites |
| Spreader Bar | FREE with hire | $75/day | BCH saves $75+ per job |
| 90T Hourly Rate | $450/hr | $400/hr | BCC $50/hr cheaper on the big crane |
| 60T Hourly Rate | $330/hr | $340/hr | BCH $10/hr cheaper |
| 90T CWT Delivery | $400 each way | $550 each way | BCH saves $300 on the round trip |
| Accreditation | CICA & NATA | — | BCH has industry certification |
What Most Outhaus Deliveries Actually Cost
For the typical Outhaus scenario — an acreage property in South East Queensland with a reasonable driveway, no major overhead obstructions, and a prepared pad location within 8–10 metres of where the crane and truck can access — crane hire for a single module delivery generally falls in the range of $2,000 to $4,000 including rigging and operator.
At the more complex end, where the module needs to be lifted over a house, over significant trees, or the crane can’t get close to the pad due to terrain, costs can reach $5,000–$8,000. These situations require a larger crane and more careful lift planning, but they’re absolutely achievable. We’ve delivered to properties throughout the Brisbane hinterland, Moreton Bay, and the Sunshine Coast where the only way in is over the top — and it works perfectly with the right crane.
Additional Costs to Factor In
Beyond crane hire itself, several additional costs may apply. An experienced dogman or rigger is usually required on site ($105–$110/hr), though this is sometimes included in the crane hire. Mobilisation fees of $500–$2,000+ apply for larger cranes travelling significant distances. Lifting equipment (spreader bars, slings, shackles) may be included or charged separately — BCH includes spreader bars free; BCC charges $75/day. A formal lift plan adds $250 (BCH fixed fee) or $160/hr (BCC). And if overhead power lines need de-energising, coordination with your electricity distributor can cost $1,000–$5,000+.
Site Planning: The Key to a Smooth and Affordable Delivery
If there’s one takeaway from this entire guide, it’s this: the earlier you think about crane access and delivery logistics, the better the outcome. Site planning isn’t an afterthought — it should inform where you position the module on your property, how you prepare the access route, and in some cases, even the module dimensions.
What We Assess on Every Outhaus Site
Driveway width, surface, and load-bearing capacity. Can a semi-trailer with a 3.5 m wide module navigate the full length? Are there tight corners? Is the surface sealed, gravel, or dirt? Will it support 25+ tonnes?
Distance from crane parking position to module pad. This determines the required reach and therefore the crane size. Every metre counts — as our load charts show, the difference between 6 m and 10 m can eliminate half the crane options.
Overhead obstructions. Power lines, trees, existing structures, and anything the boom or load needs to clear. Power lines require minimum 4 m clearance and potentially temporary disconnection.
Ground conditions for crane setup. A Franna is less critical (operates on wheels). For an outrigger crane, you need stable ground handling 30–80+ tonnes of concentrated load through the outrigger pads.
Slope and terrain. Acreage properties often have varied terrain. Steep slopes reduce crane stability and capacity. If the crane pad area is on a slope greater than about 5° (roughly 1-in-12), special precautions are needed.
Weather conditions. Crane operations are weather-dependent. High winds (generally above 20–25 km/h for modular lifts), heavy rain, or storms will cause postponement. Modules present a large surface area to wind, and safety is never compromised.
Staging area. After the module is lifted off, the truck needs somewhere to park or exit. On acreage properties there’s usually plenty of room, but it’s worth confirming.
How to Save Money on Your Crane Hire
The single biggest cost lever is getting the crane as close to the placement point as possible.
Clear the access route before delivery day. Remove overhanging branches, temporary fences, or any obstacles along the driveway and between the crane position and the pad. This is free and can make the difference between a Franna and a larger crane.
Prepare a firm crane pad area in advance. If you’re on soft or uneven ground, lay down some road base or hardstand at the crane setup point. A few hundred dollars in site prep can save thousands in crane hire.
Think about module orientation and pad placement during design. If you can position the pad so the crane has a clear, short reach from the driveway, you’re designing cost out of the delivery before it happens.
Coordinate with your electricity provider early if power lines are an issue. Temporary disconnection takes time to arrange. Don’t let this become a delivery-day surprise.
Book the crane well in advance. Crane operators have busy periods. Booking ahead gives you flexibility on timing, potentially better rates, and ensures availability. In the SEQ market, particularly with Brisbane 2032 Olympics-related construction activity, crane demand is increasing.
The Outhaus Approach to Delivery
We think about delivery from the very first conversation. When we do a site visit, we’re not just looking at where the building will sit — we’re mentally planning how it gets there. The route from the road to the pad, where the crane parks, what’s overhead, what’s underfoot. This informs everything from module dimensions to pad positioning.
Our steel-frame modules are designed with certified lifting points engineered into the structural frame. This isn’t an afterthought; it’s integral to the design. The crane operator connects rigging to purpose-built attachment points, and the module is lifted as a complete, rigid unit. No flexing, no racking, no risk of damage during the lift.
Because we’re building for acreage properties in South East Queensland, we have a natural advantage. Our typical client has more space, wider driveways, and fewer neighbouring constraints than a suburban backyard. That means the vast majority of our deliveries can be handled with a standard Franna crane — the most cost-effective option.
We coordinate the crane hire, the transport, and the on-site crew. You don’t need to become an expert in crane load charts or transport permits — that’s our job. But we believe in transparency, which is why we publish this level of detail. When you understand the process, you can make better decisions about site positioning and access preparation.
Delivery Day Checklist
- Footings / slab complete and inspected, ready to receive the module
- Driveway clear of vehicles, bins, overhanging branches, temporary fences
- Gates opened or removed if they restrict access width
- Crane pad area firm, level, and accessible
- Power lines de-energised or confirmed safe distance from crane swing arc
- Neighbours notified (courtesy, and in case of any road or access impacts)
- Weather check confirmed — calm conditions, no rain forecast for delivery window
- Someone available on site from early morning (most crane sets start at first light)
The Bigger Picture
The crane lift is one of the most visually dramatic moments in the modular construction process. It’s the moment everything comes together — months of design, engineering, and factory construction, reduced to a few hours of carefully choreographed lifting.
For us, the crane is just one link in a chain that starts with good design and careful site planning. When we design a module to be transportable and craneworthy, and when we plan the site with delivery in mind from day one, the actual lift day is almost anticlimactic. That’s the goal. The best crane days are the boring ones — where everything goes exactly to plan because the planning was thorough.
If you’re considering an Outhaus studio or dwelling for your property anywhere in South East Queensland, one of the first things we’ll do is assess your site access and talk through delivery logistics. It’s not the most glamorous part of the conversation, but it’s one of the most important. Get it right, and everything else follows.
Frequently Asked Questions — Crane Delivery for Modular Buildings
How much does crane hire cost for a modular building in Queensland?
For a typical single-module delivery in South East Queensland, crane hire ranges from $2,000 to $4,000 including rigging and operator. A Franna crane (25–40T) costs $170–$300/hr from Burpengary Crane Hire or $205–$215/hr from Brisbane City Cranes. All-terrain cranes for longer reach or heavier modules run $330–$450/hr. Complex lifts over buildings can reach $5,000–$8,000.
What size crane do I need for a granny flat or modular studio?
It depends on two things: the module weight and how far the crane needs to reach. An Outhaus H5 Workhaus (~3.5–4.0 t lift weight) can be placed with a 25–30T Franna at close range. An H6 Studio (~4.5–5.0 t) typically needs a 30–40T crane. For modules over 6 tonnes or reach beyond 12 m, a 60T–90T all-terrain crane is required.
How far can a crane reach to place a modular building?
Maximum practical radius for Outhaus modules is approximately 22 metres using a 90T crane (for lighter models only). At 40 m radius, even a 90T crane can only lift ~1.8 tonnes — far below any complete module weight. The key principle is that every extra metre of distance dramatically reduces lifting capacity.
Can a modular building be craned over a house or trees?
Yes, with the right crane. Lifting over obstacles requires a larger crane with a longer boom to clear the height while maintaining sufficient capacity. A 60–90T all-terrain crane with 48–50 m boom can typically clear single-storey houses and established trees, though costs are higher than a straight lift.
What ground conditions does a crane need?
A Franna crane operates on wheels and needs a firm surface but no special preparation. All-terrain cranes with outriggers need firm, relatively level ground capable of supporting 30–80+ tonnes of concentrated load. For soft ground, laying road base or hardstand at the crane pad before delivery day can save significant cost.
Do power lines affect crane delivery?
Yes. Australian safety regulations require a minimum 4-metre exclusion zone around overhead power lines (more for higher voltages). If lines cross near the crane route or placement area, you may need temporary de-energisation or relocation through your electricity provider. This adds $1,000–$5,000+ but is non-negotiable for safety.
How wide can a modular building be for road transport in Queensland?
Standard road limit is 2.5 m. Modules under 3.5 m wide travel with standard oversize permits and a single pilot vehicle. The Outhaus 3.4 m series is ~3.5 m with gutters. Beyond 4.5 m requires multiple escorts, restricted travel hours, and route surveys. On narrow hinterland roads, width is often the limiting factor.
Ready to Talk About Your Site?
Get in touch with us at Outhaus to book a site visit. We’ll assess your access, discuss module options, and give you a clear picture of what delivery looks like for your specific property. No obligation, no sales pressure — just honest information so you can make a good decision.
Sources: Crane specifications from Terex MAC 25-SL, Terex AT40, Liebherr LTM 1060-3.1, and Liebherr LTM 1090-4.1 datasheets. Crane hire rates from Burpengary Crane Hire (March 2026 schedule) and Brisbane City Cranes (2026 schedule of rates). Transport regulations from Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads. Australian crane safety standards: AS 2550 Series, Safe Work Australia guidelines.