Getting materials on and off site quickly and safely is part of every project, from a single delivery of steelwork to repeat collections of plant and equipment. For many of these jobs, a mobile crane is more than you need. This is where HIAB hire comes in.
In this guide, we explain what a HIAB is, the jobs it suits best, how it compares with crane hire, and what to expect when you book one with Buzzard.
What Is a HIAB?
A HIAB is a lorry with its own loader crane mounted on the vehicle. The name comes from Hiab, the manufacturer that pioneered the lorry loader crane, and the word is now widely used across the UK for this type of vehicle. You may also hear it called a lorry loader, a crane lorry or a grab lorry.
Because the crane and the lorry are one unit, a HIAB can carry a load to site and then lift it off the vehicle and into position without separate lifting equipment. That makes it one of the most efficient ways to move and place materials.
What Is HIAB Hire Used For?
HIAB hire suits a wide range of jobs across construction, industrial and commercial sites, including:
- Delivering and placing building materials such as steel, timber, blockwork and precast concrete
- Moving plant and equipment between sites or around a large site
- Installing site welfare and cabins, including containers and modular units
- Delivering machinery to factories, plants and workshops
- Loading and unloading where no other lifting equipment is available on site
- Repeat deliveries and collections throughout a project programme
The main advantage is placement. With a properly planned HIAB lift, materials can be set down exactly where they’re needed, not just as close as the lorry can get.
HIAB Hire vs Crane Hire: Which Do You Need?
HIAB hire and crane hire both lift loads, but they suit different jobs.
Choose HIAB hire when:
- You need to transport and lift the load in one visit
- The loads fall within the safe working limits of a lorry loader crane
- You need a quick, cost-effective lift without setting up a full mobile crane
- Access is suitable for a rigid or articulated lorry
Choose crane hire when:
- The load is heavier or bulkier than a lorry loader can safely handle
- The lift needs greater height or reach
- The load needs to be placed over buildings, structures or longer distances
- The job is complex enough to need a full lift plan and a dedicated crane team
If you’re not sure which you need, talk to us. Buzzard provides HIAB hire, crane hire, contract lifting and specialist haulage within one operation, so we recommend the equipment that’s right for the job, not just whatever is available.
Why Use ALLMI-Trained Operators?
ALLMI, the Association of Lorry Loader Manufacturers and Importers, sets the recognised training standard for lorry loader operators in the UK. An ALLMI-trained operator has been trained to set up, operate and lift safely with a lorry loader crane, in line with industry best practice.
Every HIAB operator Buzzard supplies is ALLMI-trained. So you get a competent operator who understands safe working loads, stability, ground conditions and correct slinging, as well as the vehicle itself.
How HIAB Hire Works with Buzzard
Booking a HIAB with Buzzard is simple.
- Get in touch. Tell us what needs moving: the load’s weight and dimensions, the site, access details and your timescale. We aim to respond the same day.
- Load and site check. We check access and ground conditions, and confirm the load falls within safe working limits, so the right vehicle and operator are booked.
- Quote and confirmation. You receive a clear, itemised quote covering the vehicle, the operator and any lifting accessories the job needs, with no hidden extras.
- On the day. Our ALLMI-trained operator arrives with the HIAB, ready to load, unload and position materials where they’re needed.
- Job complete. Once everything is offloaded and positioned, we check the area is clear and sign the job off with you.
Planning Your HIAB Hire: What to Check
A little preparation makes HIAB hire faster and safer. Before the vehicle arrives, check:
- Access: gate widths, road widths, turning space and any weight or height restrictions
- Ground conditions: the vehicle and its stabilisers need firm, level ground
- Overhead hazards: power lines, trees and structures near the lifting area
- Load information: accurate weights, dimensions and lifting points
- Set-down area: a clear, level space where the load will be placed
Sharing this information when you book helps us match the right HIAB to your job and avoid delays on the day.
HIAB Hire Across the UK
Buzzard is based in Teesside and supplies HIAB hire, crane hire, contract lifting and specialist haulage to projects across the UK. Because lifting and transport are managed within one operation, we can plan the whole movement of your materials, from collection to final placement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does HIAB stand for?
HIAB comes from Hiab, the manufacturer that pioneered lorry loader cranes. It is now a common term across the UK for any lorry with a loader crane.
Does HIAB hire include an operator?
Yes. Buzzard’s HIAB hire includes an ALLMI-trained operator who sets up the vehicle and carries out the lift.
Is a HIAB cheaper than a crane?
For loads within its safe working limits, a HIAB is often more cost-effective. It transports and lifts in one visit and needs no separate crane setup. For heavier loads or longer reach, a mobile crane may be the safer and more efficient choice.
How quickly can I book a HIAB?
Contact us with your load and site details and we aim to respond the same day. Availability depends on the job and the date you need.
Can you help if I’m not sure whether I need a HIAB or a crane?
Yes. Tell us about the load and the site, and we’ll recommend the right solution, whether that’s HIAB hire, crane hire or contract lifting.
Book HIAB Hire with Buzzard
Whether it’s a single delivery or a regular service across a project, Buzzard provides safe, efficient HIAB hire with ALLMI-trained operators and clear pricing. To discuss your requirements or request a quote, call our team on 01642 989812.
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