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Single Girder Cranes. What They Are and When They Are the Right Choice

8 December 2025 by
Single Girder Cranes. What They Are and When They Are the Right Choice
Levi Hough

Single Girder Cranes. A Complete Guide for Performance, Cost and Installation

Single girder cranes are one of the most efficient and cost effective overhead lifting solutions for factories, warehouses and engineering workshops. They offer strong lifting capability, low maintenance requirements and a compact design that fits a wide range of buildings. For many businesses, a single girder overhead crane provides the ideal balance of price, performance and reliability.

What Is a Single Girder Crane

A single girder crane uses one main beam that supports a travelling hoist. The crane runs on runway beams fixed to the building structure. This simple configuration reduces weight, fabrication time and installation cost. It also improves flexibility when space or headroom is limited.

Why Choose a Single Girder Overhead Crane

Lower overall cost

A single girder crane uses fewer structural components, which reduces the cost of steel, fabrication and installation. Businesses often choose this option when they want maximum lifting performance at the best price.

Compact size for low headroom buildings

Modern low headroom hoists allow a single girder crane to achieve excellent hook height even in buildings with restricted vertical space.

Reduced building load

The lighter design places less stress on the building structure, which can avoid the need for costly structural upgrades.

Fast and efficient installation

With fewer parts and simpler fabrication, installation times are shorter, meaning less downtime for your operation.

Low maintenance needs

The straightforward design keeps servicing requirements low and supports long term reliability.

Common Uses

Single girder overhead cranes are widely used in:

• Fabrication workshops

• Manufacturing plants

• Engineering facilities

• Automotive and industrial maintenance

• Warehouses and material handling areas

They are suitable for lifting capacities up to around 20 tonnes, depending on span and duty cycle requirements.

Is a Single Girder Crane Right for Your Site

A single girder crane is the best choice when you want:

• A cost effective crane solution

• Efficient use of available headroom

• Reduced structural load on the building

• Fast installation with minimal disruption

• A reliable long term lifting system

If your lifting needs require higher capacities, extended duty cycles or advanced features, a double girder crane may be more suitable.

How CraneCert Designs and Installs Single Girder Cranes

CraneCert designs and manufactures single girder cranes in house. Every structure is fabricated using high quality British steel and industry leading components. Our engineers design each crane to meet exact span, load and duty requirements. Installation is completed by trained specialists who ensure safe commissioning and full compliance.

We also provide servicing, maintenance and statutory LOLER inspections to keep your crane operating safely throughout its life.