Mobile Crane vs Franna Crane: Which One Do You Need?

September 8, 2025

Mobile Crane vs Franna Crane: Which One Do You Need?

Not all cranes are created equal—and choosing the right one can make or break a project. Whether you’re working on a tight residential site, a large commercial build, or infrastructure works, knowing whether to hire a mobile crane or a franna crane is critical for efficiency, cost, and safety.


At
Avalon Cranes , we provide both mobile and franna crane hire across Sydney. Our team regularly helps builders, contractors, and project managers decide which crane best suits their job.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the differences—and how to choose the right crane for your project.


What Is a Mobile Crane?

mobile crane is a versatile, heavy-duty crane mounted on a truck. It uses outriggers for stability and can lift heavy loads to significant heights.

Key Features:

  • Large lifting capacities (up to hundreds of tonnes depending on the model)
  • High reach with telescopic booms
  • Stability provided by outriggers
  • Ideal for construction sites requiring heavy or high lifts

Common Uses:

  • High-rise construction
  • Infrastructure projects (bridges, towers, etc.)
  • Lifting heavy equipment or prefabricated structures


👉 Learn more about our mobile crane hire services.


What Is a Franna Crane?

franna crane is a pick-and-carry crane designed for mobility and manoeuvrability. Unlike mobile cranes, frannas don’t use outriggers—they rely on their ability to lift and travel simultaneously.


Key Features:

  • Compact and highly mobile
  • Can “pick and carry” loads across a site
  • Quick setup with no outriggers needed
  • Smaller lifting capacity compared to mobile cranes

Common Uses:

  • Residential or small commercial construction sites
  • Moving materials around tight spaces
  • Loading and unloading deliveries
  • Jobs requiring speed and flexibility over heavy lifting


👉 Explore our franna crane hire options.



When to Choose a Mobile Crane

A mobile crane is your go-to when:

  • You need heavy lifting capacity
  • Your project involves high structures (multi-storey builds, towers)
  • Stability is critical for safety
  • You’re working on large-scale infrastructure


💡 Example: Installing large prefabricated concrete panels on a commercial building site.


When to Choose a Franna Crane

A franna crane is the better choice when:

  • You’re working in a tight site with limited space
  • You need to move loads quickly around the project area
  • The lifting requirements are lighter
  • Flexibility and speed are more important than heavy reach

💡 Example: Moving steel beams across a residential site or unloading roofing materials from a truck.


Safety Considerations

At Avalon Cranes, safety is always the top priority. Both mobile and franna cranes require licensed operators and strict adherence to Australian Standards.

  • Mobile cranes: Safe for heavy lifts but require careful setup with outriggers and ground stability checks.
  • Franna cranes: Safe for mobility but must not exceed load limits when travelling.

👉 With Avalon Cranes, every hire includes access to experienced, licensed operators who ensure your project runs safely and smoothly.


Cost Considerations

  • Mobile crane hire generally costs more due to higher lifting capacity and setup requirements.
  • Franna crane hire is usually more cost-effective for shorter jobs requiring flexibility.

By assessing your project’s lifting requirements and budget, Avalon Cranes can recommend the best fit.

👉 Get a tailored cost breakdown with a free crane hire consultation.


Case Study: Choosing the Right Crane in Sydney

A Sydney contractor recently approached Avalon Cranes for a mid-rise residential build. At first, they considered a franna crane for its flexibility. After assessing the site and lifting requirements, we recommended a mobile crane due to the heavy prefabricated panels involved.


The result:

  • Safer lifts with no risk of overload
  • On-time project completion
  • No unexpected costs from equipment mismatch

This is why expert advice matters when choosing between mobile and franna cranes.


Conclusion: Hire the Crane That Fits Your Project

Both mobile and franna cranes play vital roles in Sydney’s construction industry. The right choice depends on your project’s size, lifting needs, and site conditions.



  • Choose a mobile crane for heavy, high, and complex lifts.
  • Choose a franna crane for quick, flexible, on-site mobility.


At Avalon Cranes, we supply both—backed by expert operators and a reputation for safety and reliability. Whether you’re working on a small residential site or a major infrastructure project, we’ll match you with the crane that ensures success.



Book Your Mobile or Franna Crane Hire with Avalon Cranes Today

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