veteran-crane-construction

Veteran Crane Completes 100 MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Installation in Eloy, AZ

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 19:43:13 GMT

Project Overview

In March 2026, Veteran Crane Construction mobilized to support the installation of a 100 MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) yard in Eloy, Arizona. The scope was straightforward on paper—set battery units—but the scale and pace required a team that could execute consistently without slowing the job down.

Over the course of the project, which wrapped up on April 3, 2026, we operated a 330-ton crawler crane and maintained a steady production rate of 8 to 12 unit sets per day.

Execution in the Field

This type of work demands more than just lifting capacity. Each pick involves coordinated rigging, controlled placement, and constant communication between the operator, rigging crew, and site teams.

When you're setting that many units day after day, consistency becomes everything.

“Jobs like this come down to consistency and trust. When everyone knows their role and executes, you can move a lot of material safely and efficiently in a short amount of time.”

- Mike Boitnott, President of Veteran Crane

That approach showed up in the field every day—steady progress, no surprises, and a crew that stayed locked in from start to finish.

Keeping the Job Moving

Our role went beyond just setting units. We worked alongside other trades to help maintain overall site momentum, making sure our scope supported—not slowed—the broader schedule.

Reliable daily production without sacrificing safety
Qualified rigging and lift coordination
A jobsite-first mindset focused on keeping everything moving

That’s typically how these projects evolve—clients bring us in for one scope, and we end up supporting multiple aspects because they know we’ll follow through.

Project Outcome

By early April, the BESS yard was fully set within the planned schedule. No bottlenecks, no rework—just consistent execution across the entire month.

As utility-scale energy projects continue to grow across Arizona and beyond, jobs like this highlight what it takes to keep them on track: the right equipment, the right crew, and a partner who treats the project like their own.

At Veteran Crane Construction, that’s how we approach every job.

Rigging 101: What Most Project Managers Miss

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 15:46:44 GMT

When a lift goes smoothly, nobody talks about the rigging.

When it doesn’t—that’s usually where the problem started.

Most project managers focus on crane size, schedule, and access. All important. But rigging is the connection between the plan and the pick. If that piece isn’t right, everything else is just theory.

Here’s where we consistently see things get missed.

It’s Not Just “Hook It and Go”

Rigging isn’t a formality—it’s engineered for each lift.

Weight, center of gravity, pick points, sling angles, hardware selection… it all matters. Two loads that look similar on paper can require completely different rigging setups.

We’ve been brought in more than once where the crane was already on-site, but the rigging plan didn’t match the reality of the load. That’s a delay at best—and a safety issue at worst.

Sling Angles Change Everything

This is one of the most common oversights.

As sling angles decrease, tension increases—fast. What looks like a safe configuration can overload rigging gear without anyone realizing it.

A quick adjustment in approach—spreader bars, different sling lengths, or alternate pick points—can make the difference between a clean lift and unnecessary risk.

Rated Capacity Isn’t a Suggestion

Every piece of rigging hardware has a working load limit. That includes slings, shackles, hooks—everything.

But those ratings only apply under the right conditions.

Wear, damage, improper use, or even how the load is balanced can reduce capacity. If nobody is checking tags, inspecting gear, or verifying the setup, you’re relying on assumptions.

That’s not a position you want to be in on lift day.

Communication on the Ground Matters More Than the Plan

You can have a solid lift plan—and still run into problems if the crew isn’t aligned.

Clear hand signals. Defined roles. One point of communication.

We’ve seen confusion on the ground slow lifts down more than any mechanical issue. Good rigging crews don’t just set the gear—they control the process.

Why It Pays to Get It Right the First Time

Rigging issues don’t just create safety risks—they cost time.

Delays, re-rigging, repositioning cranes, rescheduling crews… it adds up quickly. Especially on industrial and energy projects where everything is tied together.

Getting it right upfront keeps the job moving.

How We Approach It

At Veteran Crane Construction , rigging isn’t an afterthought—it’s part of the plan from the start.

We look at the full picture:

Whether we’re supporting a solar field, substation, or industrial facility, our goal is simple:

Handle the lift in a way that keeps your schedule intact and your crew out of trouble.

Because at the end of the day, a successful lift shouldn’t be memorable—it should just be done right.

The Real Cost of Poor Lift Planning on Industrial Projects

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 21:12:06 GMT

On industrial jobsites, heavy lifts are often treated as just another scheduled task. A crane arrives, materials are lifted into place, and the project moves forward.

But experienced crews know the truth: the success of a lift is determined long before the crane ever arrives.

Poor lift planning can create delays, safety hazards, damaged equipment, and major schedule disruptions. On complex industrial and energy projects, those problems multiply quickly.

At Veteran Crane Construction , we’ve seen firsthand how proper planning turns complicated lifts into smooth, predictable operations.

Why Lift Planning Matters

Heavy lifts involve far more than just crane capacity. Every lift requires coordination between equipment, personnel, site conditions, and the project schedule.

Without proper planning, projects often run into issues like:

Cranes unable to access the lift location
Insufficient ground support for crane setup
Improper rigging configurations
Conflicts with other trades working nearby
Delays caused by last-minute adjustments

Even small oversights can result in hours or days of lost productivity.

Proper lift planning helps prevent these problems before they start.

The Hidden Costs of Poor Planning

Many project teams focus only on the hourly cost of crane equipment. In reality, the biggest expenses come from jobsite disruptions caused by unplanned complications.

Poorly planned lifts can lead to:

Schedule Delays

If a crane arrives and the site isn’t ready, crews may spend hours preparing access routes or repositioning materials.

That delay affects not just the lift, but every trade waiting on that work to be completed.

Safety Risks

Improper lift planning increases the chances of load instability, poor communication between crews, and unsafe operating conditions.

Careful preparation dramatically reduces these risks.

Equipment Damage

Incorrect rigging or lift angles can put unexpected stress on equipment and materials, potentially leading to damage or costly replacements.

Increased Labor Costs

Every hour a lift is delayed means additional crew time, rescheduling subcontractors, and lost productivity.

Key Elements of Effective Lift Planning

Successful lifts start with clear coordination and site evaluation. Experienced crane teams typically focus on several key areas:

Site Access

The crane must be able to safely reach the lift location. That includes:

Clear access roads
Adequate turning radius
Sufficient space for crane setup and outriggers

Unexpected obstacles can quickly create delays.

Ground Conditions

Cranes generate significant ground pressure. If the soil isn’t properly compacted or stabilized, additional support may be required.

Planning ahead ensures the crane can operate safely and efficiently.

Material Staging

Where materials are placed on the jobsite affects lift efficiency.

Well-planned staging areas reduce unnecessary crane repositioning and keep lifts moving smoothly.

Rigging Strategy

Proper rigging ensures the load remains stable throughout the lift. This includes selecting the correct slings, attachment points, and load balance configuration.

Qualified rigging crews play a critical role in this process.

Communication and Coordination

Successful lifts require clear communication between:

Crane operators
Ground crews
Site supervisors
Other trades working nearby

Pre-lift coordination helps everyone understand their roles and avoid conflicts during the operation.

Planning Makes Complex Lifts Routine

Industrial projects often involve heavy equipment, tight access points, and strict schedules. Without careful preparation, even simple lifts can become complicated.

But when the right team is involved early in the process, complex lifts become predictable and efficient.

That’s why many project teams bring in experienced crane partners during the planning phase—not just when equipment is needed.

A Partner That Looks at the Whole Jobsite

At Veteran Crane Construction, we approach every lift as part of a larger jobsite operation.

Our team works alongside project managers, contractors, and crews to help coordinate the moving pieces that make heavy lifts successful. From crane operations and qualified rigging to equipment logistics and jobsite support , our goal is simple:

Make the lift go smoothly so the project keeps moving.

Because on complex industrial projects, experience and preparation make all the difference.

Understanding Different Types of Cranes & Jobsite Equipment for Industrial Projects

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 22:50:00 GMT

When people hear the word crane, they often picture one piece of equipment doing one job.

In reality, successful industrial and energy projects require a coordinated combination of cranes, rigging, material handling equipment, hauling, and jobsite support. Choosing the right equipment — and the right team — can determine whether a project runs smoothly or falls behind schedule.

Here’s a practical breakdown of common crane types and support equipment used in industrial construction, substations, manufacturing facilities, and green energy projects.

All-Terrain Cranes

All-terrain cranes are among the most versatile lifting machines in the industry. They are road-legal, capable of highway travel, and designed to perform on improved jobsite surfaces.

Best used for:

Substation projects
Transformer setting
Industrial facility work
Projects requiring frequent relocation

They mobilize efficiently and provide strong lifting capacity while maintaining flexibility across different environments.

Rough Terrain Cranes

Rough terrain cranes are built specifically for off-road conditions. With large rubber tires and a compact footprint, they perform well on uneven ground and in tighter industrial spaces.

Best used for:

Manufacturing facilities
Industrial plant maintenance
Confined jobsite access
Pick-and-carry operations

When maneuverability matters as much as lift capacity, rough terrain cranes are often the right solution.

Crawler Cranes

Crawler cranes operate on tracks, providing exceptional stability and higher lifting capacities for larger, longer-duration projects.

Best used for:

Solar field installations
Battery storage facilities
Heavy transformer sets
Large industrial components

Because they distribute weight across tracks, they perform well on soft ground and provide reliable stability for critical lifts.

Boom Trucks

Boom trucks are truck-mounted cranes designed for lighter lifts and quick mobilization.

Best used for:

Equipment placement
Maintenance support
Smaller industrial lifts
Projects requiring quick response

They offer efficiency and cost-effectiveness when heavy lift capacity isn’t required.

Telehandlers (Reach Forklifts)

Telehandlers are not cranes, but they are essential on many jobsites. They combine forklift capability with an extendable boom, making them ideal for material handling.

Best used for:

Solar projects
Material staging
Palletized loads
General jobsite support

On many projects, telehandlers keep material moving so crane operations stay efficient.

Rigging Equipment

The crane is only part of the equation. Proper rigging ensures safe load control and lift execution.

Rigging equipment includes:

Slings (wire rope, synthetic, chain)
Shackles
Spreader bars
Lifting beams
Engineered lift plans

Qualified rigging and lift planning are critical for safety, compliance, and efficiency — especially in industrial and energy environments.

Support Equipment & Hauling

Large projects require more than lifting. Coordinated trucking, hauling, debris removal, and site logistics keep schedules on track.

This may include:

Lowboy trailers
Heavy hauling
Water trucks
Trash and debris removal
Equipment staging

When these services are fragmented across multiple vendors, communication gaps can slow progress. When coordinated properly, they streamline operations.

Why Equipment Coordination Matters

Industrial and green energy projects are rarely single-scope operations. A typical project may require:

Operated crane rental
Qualified rigging
Telehandlers
Heavy hauling
Site cleanup and support
Project coordination

Managing these scopes through multiple vendors can introduce delays and risk. Working with a partner who understands lift planning, sequencing, and jobsite logistics reduces friction and improves accountability.

At Veteran Crane Construction , we support complex industrial and energy projects with operated crane rentals, rigging, equipment rental, hauling, and software-driven project management — always coordinating under licensed contractors when required.

Because at the end of the day, successful projects aren’t just about equipment.

They’re about reliability, communication, and follow-through.

What It Really Takes to Support a Solar Field Build: Behind the Scenes with Crane & Rigging Services

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 19:57:47 GMT

Building a solar field looks clean and simple once it’s finished — rows of panels neatly lined up, inverters humming quietly, and miles of cable tucked out of sight. But anyone who's been on-site during the build knows the early phases are a whole different story. Tight timelines, evolving scopes, and remote access challenges can throw even the best teams off track.

At Veteran Crane Construction , we’ve supported solar and battery storage builds across Arizona and the entire United States. And from where we stand, crane work is just one piece of the puzzle. Here’s what it really takes to keep these jobs moving — and how we help general contractors stay ahead of the curve.

Cranes Are Just the Start

Sure, we bring in the cranes. But not just for lifting panels.

From the moment the first truckload of steel arrives, we’re involved in hoisting racking systems, setting inverter skids, placing transformers, and handling oversized or awkward equipment that needs precision movement. Our operated crane rental service is built around jobsite efficiency — the right crane, with the right operator, ready to work when you are.

Rigging That’s More Than Just Safe

On a solar jobsite, every lift counts — and every delay ripples through the schedule.

That’s why we don’t just show up with gear. We show up with qualified riggers who understand the pace of these jobs. Our crews coordinate directly with your site superintendent, staying a step ahead and helping plan lifts that keep the workflow smooth. Safety is the baseline — but experience, timing, and coordination are what make it all click.

Equipment and Jobsite Support That Keeps Things Moving

Solar fields can be spread out and hard to access. You’ve got containers that need moving, debris that needs clearing, and access roads that turn to mud. We’ve seen it all — and we bring the equipment and support to stay ahead of it.

Need trash and debris pickup? We’ll handle it. Need a skid steer or a trailer moved to the other end of the job? We’ve got it. Our crews work under your licensed contractor to deliver the support that keeps your team focused on what they do best — building.

Why General Contractors Stick With Us

Most of our long-term clients didn’t start by hiring us for everything. They brought us on for a crane lift — and quickly realized we could handle a lot more.

When your crane vendor also handles equipment moves, rigging, hauling, and trash management, you make fewer calls, hold fewer subs accountable, and deal with fewer delays. That’s the trust we build. That’s why people keep us around.

At Veteran Crane, we don’t just lift. We solve. Give us a call today.

Full-Service Crane Rental & Jobsite Support in Arizona: Why Veteran Crane Construction Is the Go-To Partner for Industrial Projects

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 15:31:14 GMT

Based in Prescott, AZ, Veteran Crane Construction supports critical infrastructure, green energy, and manufacturing projects across the state with operated crane rental, qualified rigging, equipment rental, and full-service jobsite support. Our clients trust us not just to show up with the right equipment — they count on us to keep the job moving, safely and efficiently.

Why Choose Veteran Crane Construction?

One Call. One Crew. Every Solution.

Most companies rent you a crane. We bring the crane, the operator, the rigging team, hauling, debris pickup, and even project management software — all in one. That means fewer vendors to manage, faster timelines, and smoother coordination.

Operated Crane Rental for Critical Lifts

Whether you’re setting transformers, supporting a substation upgrade, or moving large solar components, our operated cranes and experienced crews are ready to mobilize quickly across Arizona. Our crane capacity charts are easy to access and tailored to real-world industrial lifts.

Rigging That Gets It Right the First Time

Our rigging teams are qualified, precise, and trained to handle complex industrial and green energy components. We’re not learning on your dime — we’re bringing real experience to the table.

Trusted in Green Energy, Substations, and Heavy Industry

We regularly support solar farms, battery storage facilities, and high-voltage transformer installations. We understand the unique safety and timing demands of high-voltage and green energy work — and we work under your licensed GC to get it done right.

Industries We Serve

Solar Field Construction and Maintenance
Transformer Installation and Substation Work
Manufacturing and Plant Maintenance
Heavy Equipment Relocation
Infrastructure Upgrades
Battery Storage Projects

Built on Relationships — Not Just Contracts

At Veteran Crane Construction, we believe that “handshakes and relationships matter.” That means doing what we say we’re going to do, showing up ready, and becoming the team you trust — not just for one job, but for every job after.

Need a crane? Need a full-service partner?

Let’s talk. We’ll handle the lift, the rigging, the transport, and the cleanup — all under one roof. Serving Arizona and the entire United States.

Veteran Crane Unloads 594 Tesla Megapacks in Tonopah, AZ

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 14:49:38 GMT

Veteran Crane Construction recently completed a major support project involving the offloading of 594 Tesla Megapack battery storage units in Tonopah, Arizona. Each unit weighed in at 84,000 pounds, requiring heavy-duty equipment, detailed planning, and a committed team to keep the schedule on track.

Project Overview

Location: Tonopah, AZ
Units Handled: 594 Tesla Megapacks
Weight Per Unit: 84,000 lbs
Timeline to Start: 36 hours from initial call
On-Site Duration (Offloading): 11 days

Team Approach Once mobilized, our crew operated in two 12-hour shifts every day to keep the process moving continuously. From day one through day eleven, this was a full-tilt logistical operation where every Megapack had to be handled with care and coordination.

Execution Highlights

Operated cranes specifically suited for extreme weight handling
Qualified rigging crews ensuring safe and precise offloads
Tight coordination with site leads and logistics managers
Ability to adapt in real-time to shifting site needs and conditions

Project Wrap-Up From initial offload to final transport, the entire project was completed successfully. The team stayed on schedule, maintained strict safety protocols, and supported the client’s operational goals at every stage.

We’ll be sharing more photos and insights soon. If you have questions about large-scale equipment handling, we’re always here to talk.

Veteran Crane Construction is a Prescott, Arizona–based company specializing in operated crane rental, qualified rigging, equipment rental, and software-driven project management. We support industrial and green energy projects across the region, offering dependable, full-service jobsite support under licensed contractors. Known for reliability, strong relationships, and a “we’ll take care of it” approach, we’re the partner clients call when precision and trust matter most.