Used Truck Crane Buying Guide: SANY, XCMG and Zoomlion Inspection Points
How to compare used truck cranes for export, including boom length, counterweight, engine condition, road chassis, inspection flow and FAQ for overseas buyers.
Expert reviewed by Lee, Mobile Crane Export Consultant
Truck crane sourcing and loading coordinator at Sxmachine
Lee helps buyers compare Chinese used truck cranes by capacity, boom configuration, chassis condition, engine type and export packing requirements.
1. Start with real lifting tasks, not only rated tonnage
A 50-ton or 100-ton label is only the starting point. Buyers should compare main boom length, counterweight, outrigger condition, chassis mileage, emission requirements, engine brand, hydraulic performance and available spare parts.
For example, a SANY STC500E5 with 45.5 m main boom and Weichai engine is a different buying case from a 100-ton class STC1000V7-1 configured for heavier infrastructure lifts.
2. Inspect the upper crane and the road chassis separately
For the crane upper, review boom sections, extension/retraction, winch, wire rope, hook block, slewing, hydraulic leaks, operator cabin and load moment indicator. For the chassis, inspect engine, gearbox, axles, tires, brakes, steering and frame condition.
A short running video should show engine start, boom movement, outrigger deployment, slewing, winch operation and dashboard warning lights.
Used truck crane inspection table
| Item | Good signal | Risk signal |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Stable start, clean idle, no obvious smoke | Hard start, heavy smoke, abnormal noise |
| Boom | Smooth telescoping, no obvious dents | Weld repair, deformation, stuck extension |
| Hydraulics | Dry hoses and cylinders under operation | Oil leakage, slow action, weak pressure |
| Chassis | Straight frame, usable tires, responsive brakes | Accident repair, tire mismatch, brake issues |
Truck crane brand comparison for export buyers
SANY: strong global recognition
Good for resale and common spare parts
XCMG: broad model coverage
Good for mixed fleet buyers
Zoomlion: competitive configurations
Good value in mid-to-large tonnage
Truck crane buying workflow
Define lift cases
Capacity, working radius, boom length and terrain
Review photos
Upper, chassis, engine, cabin and tires
Request test video
Start, outrigger, boom, slewing and winch
Confirm shipping
Ro-ro, flat rack or breakbulk route
Prepare documents
Invoice, packing list, bill of lading and customs support
Different crane types and applications
FAQ
Is a used truck crane easier to export than a tower crane?
Often yes, because many truck cranes can be shipped by ro-ro or breakbulk with less component packing. The best route still depends on size, port, shipping schedule and destination rules.
What is more important: year or condition?
Condition is usually more important. A newer machine with poor maintenance can be worse than an older crane with clear records, good hydraulics and clean structure.
Can Sxmachine provide inspection photos before payment?
Yes. We can provide real equipment photos and help arrange additional video inspection before confirming the order.