Jib Crane vs. Alternatives: Which Lifting Solution Is Right for You?

But with alternatives like gantry cranes, davit arms, and overhead hoists also available, how do you determine which system is the right fit for your operation?

This article will guide you through a comparison between jib cranes and their common alternatives, analyzing applications, benefits, and limitations—so you can make an informed purchasing decision based on your workspace, budget, and operational goals.

To explore specialized models, visit The specification of Jib Cranes

Understanding Jib Cranes

Jib cranes are lifting devices consisting of a horizontal jib or boom that supports a hoist, which is fixed to a wall or floor-mounted vertical mast. They are ideal for repetitive, localized lifting in manufacturing cells, warehouses, or near assembly lines.

Learn more at Manufacturing Jib Crane

Common Jib Crane Types:

• Freestanding Jib Crane – Mounted on the floor, offering 360° rotation.

• Wall Mounted Jib Crane – Attached to structural walls, ideal for compact spaces.

• Ceiling Mounted Jib Crane – Suspended from ceilings, saving valuable floor area.

• Articulating Jib Crane – With dual arms for maneuvering around obstacles.

• Pillar Jib Crane – Heavy-duty versions mounted on steel columns.

Comparing Jib Cranes and Common Alternatives

1. Jib Crane vs Gantry Crane

• Use Case: Gantry cranes are mobile and can span larger areas, suitable for moving heavy loads across distances. Jib cranes, in contrast, are best for repetitive lifting in defined work zones.

• Installation: Gantry cranes require a flat surface but no permanent installation. Jib cranes (especially freestanding and wall-mounted) need bolting or welding into place.

• Mobility: Gantry cranes can be moved throughout a facility. Jib cranes are fixed.

• Cost: Jib cranes are more cost-effective for workstations. Gantry cranes tend to be more expensive but offer greater range.

Explore more on Jib Crane comparison

2. Jib Crane vs Davit Arm

• Davit Arm: Often used for small-scale or rooftop applications. Limited in load capacity and arc range.

• Jib Crane: Handles higher capacities with broader coverage and is more rugged for industrial use.

• Safety: Jib cranes have standardized load ratings and are engineered for consistency. Davit arms are sometimes DIY or temporary.

3. Jib Crane vs Overhead Crane

• Overhead Crane: Covers large factory spaces with tracks mounted on building girders.

• Jib Crane: More economical for spot-lifting at specific stations.

• Flexibility: Jib cranes can be installed independently of building structure.

View the full installation details in this Step by step guide to install a jib crane

Use Case Examples

Example 1: Wall-Mounted Jib Crane in Sheet Metal Fabrication

A facility in Victoria installed the Wall-mounted Jib Cranes in Industry to lift metal sheets onto cutting tables. With 180° rotation and a 250kg capacity, handling time was reduced by 30%.

Example 2: Articulated Jib Crane in Auto Assembly

At a plant in Melbourne, operators used the Articulated jib cranes wall-mounted to install engine blocks into vehicles. The articulated design allowed precise placement despite tight layouts.

Example 3: Pillar Jib Crane in Mold Changes

A plastics facility in NSW opted for a pillar jib crane mounted centrally in their mold zone. It enabled fast, safe lifting of heavy tooling with reduced downtime.

When to Choose a Jib Crane

You should consider a jib crane over gantry cranes or hoists if:

• The lifting task is repetitive and localized

• Space is constrained or walls are load-bearing

• You require ergonomic lifting with limited operator fatigue

• You need to avoid ceiling rail installations

Advantages of Jib Cranes

Cost Considerations

• Installation Costs: Wall-mounted units are more economical than freestanding versions.

• Customization: Arm length, hoist type, and material finishes affect pricing.

• Aardwolf’s Value: Aardwolf offers a wide selection of competitively priced, engineered jib cranes.

Summary: When to Choose Each Option

• Choose Jib Cranes for fixed, repetitive tasks in defined work zones.

• Choose Gantry Cranes for flexibility and wide-area lifting needs.

• Choose Davit Arms for compact, low-capacity lifting (e.g., rooftop equipment handling).

For product selection assistance, visit The specification of Jib Cranes

References

1.     How to operate a Jib Cranes safely

2.     What is a Jib Crane?

3.     Over brace jib crane wall mounted

4.     Wall mounted Jib Crane

5.     Is a Jib Crane a Gantry Crane

6.     Articulated Jib Crane Wall Mounted

7.     Where is Jib Crane used?

8.     Manual Counterbalance Crane

9.     Floor Mounted Jib Crane

10.  Over Braced Jib Crane Column Mounted

11.  Powered counterbalance Crane

12.   Portable Gantry Crane