What is the difference between a telescopic crane and a fixed crane arm?

A fixed or modular arm is set to one length before the shot. A telescopic crane extends and retracts its arm while the camera rolls, so the camera can travel toward or away from a subject without moving the base. Telescopic cranes also need a trained operator.

Which documents should come with a used camera crane?

The maker's manual, service and repair history, the latest inspection record and any load test paperwork, proof of ownership with the serial number, and the title or registration for any trailer included.

Can I see a used crane working before I buy?

Ask for a demonstration at full reach with a realistic payload, or a video of the full range of movement, and have a crane technician you trust look it over. Condition on every listing is the seller's own grade.

Does a used crane come with a remote head?

Sometimes. If a head is included, check that its payload and mounting suit both the crane and your camera before you buy them as a pair.

Used camera crane for sale: what to check before you buy

A used camera crane is an arm that carries a camera, usually on a remote head: either a fixed or modular arm built to length, or a telescopic crane whose arm extends and retracts during the shot. Before you buy, check the structure, the counterweight set, the base and the inspection and service records, and confirm it carries your camera, lens and head at the reach you need. Price follows the crane type and maximum reach, the make, age and condition, and how complete the package is.

What to check before you buy

Inspection and load test records: when it was last inspected, by whom, and any load test paperwork. Some productions and rental clients ask to see it.
Structure: tubes and sections free of dents, cracks and bends; welds, pins and safety clips intact.
Rated payload at full reach, compared with your camera, lens and remote head together.
Counterweights: the full set the maker specifies, with matching markings.
Base: the dolly, turret, track or tripod that comes with it, and that it fits this crane.
Cables, pulleys and brakes on cable-driven and telescopic arms. Ask for a video of the arm through its full range.
Transport: cases, or a crane trailer with its own title or registration.

Questions buyers ask

What is the difference between a telescopic crane and a fixed crane arm?: A fixed or modular arm is set to one length before the shot. A telescopic crane extends and retracts its arm while the camera rolls, so the camera can travel toward or away from a subject without moving the base. Telescopic cranes also need a trained operator.
Which documents should come with a used camera crane?: The maker's manual, service and repair history, the latest inspection record and any load test paperwork, proof of ownership with the serial number, and the title or registration for any trailer included.
Can I see a used crane working before I buy?: Ask for a demonstration at full reach with a realistic payload, or a video of the full range of movement, and have a crane technician you trust look it over. Condition on every listing is the seller's own grade.
Does a used crane come with a remote head?: Sometimes. If a head is included, check that its payload and mounting suit both the crane and your camera before you buy them as a pair.