Frequently Asked Questions

  • What's the difference between a CAD truck and a regular crane?

    A CAD truck combines transport and precision lifting capabilities, making it ideal for placing heavy bridge components and structural materials with controlled accuracy. Unlike standard cranes, CAD trucks are designed specifically for infrastructure work where exact positioning is critical. At Russell Crane Service, we use them frequently on roadway and bridge projects across Central Washington.
  • How do you choose the right crane size for a lift?

    Choosing the right crane depends on the load weight, lift height, reach distance, and site conditions like terrain and overhead clearances. Russell Crane Service offers cranes ranging from 20-ton to 440-ton capacity to match your project requirements. Our team can perform on-the-job evaluations to ensure safe and efficient equipment selection.
  • What does NCCCO certified crane operator mean?

    NCCCO certification means a crane operator has passed nationally recognized testing for safety, knowledge, and operating skills. All operators at Russell Crane Service are NCCCO trained, ensuring professional handling and adherence to industry safety standards. This certification is a key indicator of operator competence and jobsite reliability.
  • When should I schedule a telehandler for my construction site?

    Schedule a telehandler when you need versatile lifting for truss placement, material staging, or rough terrain access during active construction phases. They're especially useful for reducing manual handling and increasing efficiency on commercial jobsites. At Russell Crane Service, telehandlers are available for short-term or extended rental periods throughout Central Washington.
  • Can excavators handle Yakima's varied terrain and soil conditions?

    Yes, excavators are well-suited for Yakima's diverse terrain, including rocky soils, sandy areas, and clay-heavy ground common in Central Washington. Russell Crane Service maintains reliable excavators designed for demanding earthmoving, site prep, and utility work. Proper equipment selection ensures efficiency regardless of soil type or jobsite complexity.
  • What's the biggest mistake contractors make when renting heavy equipment?

    The biggest mistake is underestimating site conditions like access, ground stability, and overhead clearances, which can delay projects or require equipment changes. Russell Crane Service offers on-the-job evaluations and lift planning to avoid costly surprises. Proper coordination ensures the right equipment arrives ready to work safely and efficiently.
  • How does a lowboy trailer differ from a standard flatbed?

    A lowboy trailer sits lower to the ground and is designed specifically for hauling oversized or heavy machinery like excavators and loaders. This lower deck height allows for taller loads while meeting highway clearance requirements. Russell Crane Service frequently pairs lowboy rentals with crane and rigging services for seamless equipment transport.
  • What factors affect the cost of crane rental services?

    Cost depends on crane size, rental duration, transport distance, jobsite accessibility, and any specialized rigging or lift planning required. Complex lifts or remote locations may also impact pricing. At Russell Crane Service, we provide free estimates and work with contractors to match equipment and budget for projects throughout the Pacific Northwest.
  • Why is precision lifting critical for bridge girder placement?

    Bridge girders must align exactly to ensure structural integrity, load distribution, and long-term safety of roadway infrastructure. Even slight misalignment can cause costly rework or compromise performance. Russell Crane Service uses CAD trucks and experienced operators trained in precision placement for municipal and highway projects across Central Washington.
  • Are crane services available for emergency work after hours?

    Yes, Russell Crane Service operates 24/7 for emergencies, with phones answered by staff around the clock including weekends. This ensures urgent lifts, equipment failures, or storm damage can be addressed immediately. Emergency availability is especially valuable for industrial and infrastructure projects that can't afford downtime.
  • What's the benefit of renting operated equipment versus operator-only services?

    Renting operated equipment means you receive both the machine and a trained, NCCCO-certified operator, ensuring safe and efficient performance from day one. This eliminates liability concerns and ensures compliance with safety standards. Russell Crane Service specializes in operated rentals, providing screened professionals experienced with regional jobsite conditions.
  • How do you prepare a jobsite for crane or heavy equipment arrival?

    Ensure level ground, adequate access routes, overhead clearance, and removal of obstacles like power lines or debris before equipment arrives. Site prep also includes confirming load-bearing capacity for outriggers or stabilizers. At Russell Crane Service, we offer on-site evaluations to help contractors plan safe and efficient setups for lifts across Yakima and surrounding areas.