Just Bought a Crane, Bucket Truck, or Digger Derrick at Auction? Here’s What You Need to Do Next.
So, you landed a good deal at auction—scored a crane, bucket truck, or digger derrick for a fraction of the new price. Nice. But before you put it to work, there are a few critical things you should do to make sure it’s actually safe, certifiable, and ready for service.
1. Get It Inspected—Now
Start with a thorough structural inspection. Auction units often have unknown histories, and cracking is one of the most common—and most overlooked—issues we find. That includes boom pedestals, weld seams, outrigger mounts, and other stress points. Whether it’s been sitting in a yard or worked hard in the oil patch, cracks don’t discriminate. Get it checked.
2. Check the Paperwork
Auction listings rarely come with a clean folder of documents, so now’s the time to go through what you’ve got. You’re looking for:
The most recent structural inspection report
Annual certifications
Manufacturer load charts
And most importantly—proof of a stability test
If you can’t find confirmation that a stability test has been done, you’ll need to get that done before using the unit. This is especially true for digger derricks, bucket trucks and cranes—without this paperwork, you’re likely non-compliant.
3. Was It Modified?
A lot of auction equipment has been customized in the field. Not all modifications are created equal. If the unit has been altered in any way, you’ll need engineer-stamped documentation confirming the modification was reviewed and approved by a licensed professional engineer. No stamp, no go.
4. Dielectric Testing for Fiberglass Sections
If your unit has fiberglass booms or buckets, it must pass a dielectric test before it’s used anywhere near power lines. The test ensures that the insulating properties are intact and the fiberglass hasn’t degraded. This is especially important if the unit was stored outdoors or hasn’t been tested in over a year.
Bottom Line?
Auction buys can be smart business—but only if you do your due diligence before putting them into service. At Grizzly Inspections Ltd., we specialize in post-auction inspections and can help you get the documentation and testing you need to stay compliant and safe.
Book your inspection today—before that “deal” turns into a liability.