Choosing a Crane Inspection Company

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT CRANE INSPECTION COMPANY

1. Choose a company that focuses on safety rather than sales. Many crane companies use low-bid inspections as a "loss leader" in order to get in the door to sell additional - and often very costly - maintenance or repair services. Even a few of the national, chain-type crane companies resort to this somewhat underhanded tactic in order to generate high-dollar maintenance sales. We don't operate that way. PCI simply performs the highest quality, most thorough crane inspections in the industry. We don't rely on tricks or deceptive sales practices. If you want a real inspection, call a real inspection company.

2. The low bid is not always the best buy. Ask each bidder what components are covered and how long they will take to perform the inspection. Inspection times should be nearly equal on all quotes, very low time estimates are suspect and may not include a comprehensive inspection of all the essential crane components. Low bid estimates are also an indication of a company trying to "get in the door".

3.Ask for proof of insurance. This is a very basic but often overlooked issue, but it is of vital importance to all parties involved. Proper insurance for this type of business is very expensive, and many small companies simply cannot afford it so they do not carry liability and errors & omissions coverage. This is a hazzardous practice and puts everyone involved at risk. A conscientious inspection company protects itself and its customers by maintaining proper insurance coverage at all times.

4. Demand personal service. Ask potential inspection companies to visit your site for a walk-through prior to submitting a bid. This will give you a chance to meet their field representative and get a feel for the way the company does business. Any company who cannot meet your request for a meeting might be too busy or simply does not place a great value on developing a business relationship with you. You should also be able to reach your crane company at any time, day or night. Crane emergencies happen, make sure you can get the level of response you need to keep your company up and running.

5. Buy American! Two of the largest crane companies operating in this country are owned and operated entirely by foreign-based companies (Finland and Germany). The profits made by these companies are shipped back overseas to line foreign pockets. Spend your dollars to strengthen the American economy by supporting 100% American-owned companies. Help keep Americans and your local economy working.