Workshop Cranes from MEILLER – Lifting Power Up to 3,000 kg

Workshop cranes are indispensable tools for lifting and moving heavy machine parts, motors, tools, and components in workshops and production environments. At MEILLER, we offer a wide selection of high-quality workshop cranes engineered for industrial use. This guide will walk you through the key considerations when selecting the right workshop crane, its applications, technical specifications, and the advantages of choosing MEILLER as your supplier.

What Is a Workshop Crane?

A workshop crane is a compact lifting device designed to hoist and move heavy items within confined indoor spaces. Unlike fixed lifting systems, workshop cranes are mobile, flexible, and can be maneuvered even under low ceiling heights. Thanks to their compact frame and precise lifting mechanism, workshop cranes are ideal for environments such as repair shops, assembly lines, production floors, and maintenance areas.

A typical workshop crane consists of a base frame with swivel and fixed castors, a vertical mast, a telescopic jib arm, and a hydraulic lifting unit. By activating the hydraulic pump, the jib arm raises, lifting the attached load securely via a crane hook. The telescoping function of the arm increases reach and flexibility, allowing workshop cranes to access difficult or remote positions.

What Makes Workshop Cranes Unique?

Unlike forklifts that pick up loads from below, workshop cranes lift from above using a hook. Moreover, workshop cranes can be moved while carrying a load, which sets them apart from fixed column or wall-mounted cranes. This feature makes workshop cranes especially practical when space is limited or when equipment needs to be lifted through machine frames or over barriers.

Because of their small footprint, workshop cranes can easily be pushed under vehicles or machines. This makes them perfect for installing engines or loading heavy parts directly into chassis frames. That’s why workshop cranes are often referred to as engine hoists or assembly cranes.

Counterweight Workshop Cranes

Workshop cranes with counterweights provide added operational flexibility. The crane mast and arm are located at the front of the chassis, allowing the crane to approach loads directly. With a counterweight workshop crane, it’s easy to place or remove parts precisely where needed without structural interference.

Folding Workshop Cranes Without Counterweight

At MEILLER, we also manufacture workshop cranes without counterweights, with lifting capacities up to 3,000 kg. These cranes are foldable and designed for space-saving storage. Available with either parallel or spread chassis, these workshop cranes are optimal as engine hoists or general-purpose lifting aids. Their compact design enables easy handling and positioning, even in tight environments.

Where Are Workshop Cranes Used?

Workshop cranes are essential wherever heavy components need to be lifted with accuracy. Common use cases include industrial production, repair services, technical maintenance departments, and logistics. With a workshop crane, even low-clearance areas or confined workstations can be serviced efficiently. Their ability to lift loads through narrow access points or machine enclosures makes workshop cranes a flexible tool for modern operations.

Key Buying Criteria for Workshop Cranes

1. What Is the Required Lifting Capacity?

Choosing the right workshop crane starts with understanding the maximum load you need to lift. MEILLER offers a broad range of workshop cranes with different capacities:

• Counterweight workshop cranes: 500 kg or 1,000 kg
• Foldable workshop cranes without counterweight: 1,000 kg, 2,000 kg, or 3,000 kg
• Forklift-mounted crane arms: up to 5,000 kg

2. What Lifting Height Is Required?

The vertical reach of your workshop crane is equally important. Our models offer:

• Counterweight workshop cranes: up to 3,200 mm lifting height
• Foldable workshop cranes: up to 4,050 mm lifting height

Please note that load capacity decreases at higher extension levels according to the load diagram.

3. Is the Jib Telescopic?

All MEILLER workshop cranes come with a height-adjustable and telescopic jib arm. This increases the reach of the workshop crane, enabling it to service positions that would otherwise be inaccessible. Some versions are equipped with a hand winch for even finer control during lowering.

4. How Much Space Do You Have?

If your workspace is tight, our workshop cranes are ideal. Their compact design allows them to be folded and stored with minimal space requirements. Despite their compact footprint, our workshop cranes can be used under vehicles or through narrow aisles due to their low mast height and maneuverable chassis.

5. What Type of Lifting Mechanism Is Preferred?

MEILLER workshop cranes are available with:

• Manual hydraulic lifting: operated by pump lever
• Electro-hydraulic systems (for specific models): for even smoother operation

All lifting systems include finely adjustable release valves for controlled load lowering.

6. Do You Need to Access Equipment Directly?

If your crane needs to reach over machine bases or barriers, a counterweight workshop crane is the right choice. With free reach in front of the base frame, these workshop cranes can approach the exact lifting point without obstruction.

Variants of Workshop Cranes

We offer several types of workshop cranes for different operational needs:

• Parallel chassis: Ideal for working with pallets or cages
• Splayed chassis: Allows close access to machinery and installations
• Counterweight models: Maximum outreach with integrated balance weight
• Stainless steel models: Especially suited for environments with special hygiene requirements
• Rotating workshop cranes: Crane arm rotates 360° for complete freedom of motion

All our workshop cranes come with robust castors (either polyamide or polyurethane) suited to the load class and environment.

Polyamide Wheels

Durable and chemically resistant, these are ideal for general use in industrial environments with temperature ranges from -20°C to +80°C.

Polyurethane Wheels

Highly wear-resistant and quiet, these wheels are designed for high loads, oil resistance, and sensitive floors.

Most Popular Workshop Cranes from MEILLER

1. Foldable Workshop Crane with Splayed Chassis

Lifting up to 3,000 kg, this workshop crane is ideal for tight spaces and can be folded to save storage space. The open base allows close approach to machines.

2. Foldable Workshop Crane with Parallel Chassis

Perfect for pallet-based storage and easy lifting of stored goods, this workshop crane is equally compact and easy to store.

3. Counterweight Workshop Crane

With up to 1,000 kg capacity, this workshop crane can be used right at the application point. The telescopic jib enhances reach and flexibility.

Additional FAQs

Can Workshop Cranes Be Used Outdoors?

While workshop cranes are primarily intended for indoor use, custom outdoor versions can be developed on request.

Is a License Required?

No crane license is needed. However, operators should be trained and familiar with the crane’s operation manual.

Is MEILLER a Manufacturer?

Yes, MEILLER has over 130 years of experience in manufacturing workshop cranes and industrial lifting solutions. All workshop cranes are produced in Germany under strict quality controls and are CE-compliant.

Conclusion – Why Choose Workshop Cranes from MEILLER?

At MEILLER, we provide a wide range of workshop cranes engineered for safety, efficiency, and durability. Whether you need a compact lifting solution for narrow spaces or a powerful crane with extended reach, our workshop cranes offer German quality and reliability.

With lifting capacities ranging from 500 kg to 3,000 kg and optional customization, we are your trusted partner for industrial-grade workshop cranes. Contact us today to find the right workshop crane for your operation.