When people see a massive crane lifting equipment above a skyline, they’re usually watching the final act of a long and complex process.

What they don’t see is everything that happens before the lift ever begins.

Recently, our team at Thackray Crane deployed a 500-ton Liebherr LTM 1400-7.1 crane in Center City Philadelphia for a cooling tower replacement project. While the lift itself may only take a short time, assembling and preparing a crane of this size is a coordinated operation involving lift planning, logistics, certifications, and a skilled heavy lifting and rigging team working together.

For any major crane rental in Philadelphia, the setup process is just as critical as the lift itself.

We invite you to watch this amazing time lapse of the assembly. Then take some time to read below and learn about everything that goes into preparing a 500-ton crane for heavy lifting in a dense urban environment.

The Machine Behind the Lift

The Liebherr LTM 1400-7.1 is one of the most capable all-terrain cranes used in heavy construction, HVAC installation, and industrial lifting projects today. Mounted on a seven-axle carrier, the crane can travel to job sites under its own power and maneuver through tight urban environments thanks to advanced steering and suspension systems.

Despite its mobility, this crane is anything but small. It offers:

• 500-ton maximum lifting capacity
• 197-foot telescopic main boom
• Potential hook heights of over 400 feet with jib configurations
• A working radius of more than 300 feet depending on setup

To safely achieve that lifting power, the crane relies on a massive counterweight system. A fully configured LTM 1400-7.1 can carry over 300,000 pounds of ballast, providing the stability required for major industrial lifting and heavy equipment installation projects.

But none of that capability matters unless the crane is properly assembled and prepared.

Building the Crane on Site

Unlike smaller cranes that arrive ready to work, large all-terrain cranes used for heavy lifting and crane rental services are often transported in multiple pieces. Counterweights, rigging equipment, and accessories typically arrive on separate trucks.

On a Philadelphia crane project, the setup process usually unfolds in stages:

1. Site preparation – verifying ground conditions, clearances, and space for outriggers and crane assembly.
2. Street closures and permits – coordinating with city agencies to secure traffic control and safe working zones.
3. Counterweight delivery – trucks deliver multiple loads of ballast that are staged and installed.
4. Crane assembly – counterweights are stacked, boom sections are configured, and rigging equipment is prepared.
5. System checks and inspections – verifying load charts, safety systems, and communication protocols.

Once fully assembled, the crane spreads its outriggers to create a stable footprint that can exceed 30 feet wide, ensuring the machine remains balanced while lifting hundreds of tons.

For a crane company operating in a dense urban environment like Philadelphia, careful planning and coordination are essential to ensure the setup process runs safely and efficiently.

Lifting Above Active Infrastructure

One of the most complex aspects of this project wasn’t just the size of the crane—it was what was happening beneath it.

While the 500-ton Liebherr LTM 1400-7.1 was being assembled and operated in Center City Philadelphia, subway trains continued running directly below the jobsite.

In dense urban environments, ground conditions are always a critical factor. When underground infrastructure like subway tunnels or utilities are present, lift planning becomes even more detailed.

Before the crane could be set up, planners had to evaluate:

• Structural capacity of the ground above the tunnel
• Outrigger placement and load distribution
• Total crane weight including counterweights
• Coordination with city and transit authorities

Large cranes rely on outriggers to distribute their load across the ground surface. In situations like this, engineers must ensure that ground pressure remains within safe limits so underground infrastructure is not affected.

Careful lift planning and coordination allowed the crane to operate safely while the subway system below continued running normally. It’s just one example of the many complex challenges Thackray Crane navigates when performing heavy lifts in the heart of a major city.

The People Behind the Operation

A crane like the LTM 1400-7.1 doesn’t run on horsepower alone—it runs on expertise.

Major heavy lift and rigging operations require a coordinated team that can include:

• Certified crane operators
• Professional riggers and signal persons
• Lift supervisors and project managers
• Truck drivers transporting crane components and counterweights
• Safety personnel monitoring the jobsite

At Thackray Crane, every lift is supported by trained professionals who specialize in heavy lifting, crane operations, and lift planning for complex construction and industrial projects.

In the United States, crane operators must meet strict training and certification requirements. Federal safety regulations require operators to be qualified and evaluated to ensure they can safely operate the equipment and understand lifting procedures and safety protocols.

Communication between the operator, riggers, and signal personnel is critical during both setup and lifting operations.

Planning the Lift Before the Crane Arrives

Long before the crane rolls onto a jobsite, the lift is already being engineered.

Professional lift planning and engineering analysis are essential for large crane operations.

Lift planning can include:

• Calculating load weights and lifting radius
• Selecting the correct crane configuration
• Reviewing structural and ground bearing conditions
• Coordinating transportation of equipment and counterweights
• Scheduling road closures and work windows

For urban crane services in Philadelphia, planning becomes even more important. Streets may need to be temporarily closed, sidewalks protected, and staging areas carefully mapped to ensure equipment can safely reach the site.

Proper planning helps ensure every heavy lift project is completed safely and efficiently.

Precision in Motion

Once the crane is assembled, inspected, and fully configured, the actual lifting operation can begin.

Modern cranes like the Liebherr LTM 1400-7.1 use advanced control systems that allow operators to make precise movements while monitoring load conditions, boom angles, and stability limits in real time.

For experienced crane operators and rigging crews, this technology allows complex lifts to be performed with exceptional accuracy.

To the outside observer, the lift may appear smooth and effortless.

But behind that moment is hours—sometimes days—of preparation.

More Than Just a Lift

Heavy lifting in urban environments is never just about moving equipment from one place to another. It’s about engineering, teamwork, and careful execution.

Every truckload of counterweights, every permit, and every safety check plays a role in ensuring the operation is completed efficiently and safely.

And when everything comes together, the result is what you see in the final timelapse: a 500-ton crane rising piece by piece in the middle of Center City Philadelphia, ready to get to work.

For companies that rely on professional crane services, heavy lifting, and specialized rigging, that preparation is what makes safe and successful lifts possible.

Each year from March 1st through March 7th, the construction industry celebrates Women in Construction Week, organized by the National Association of Women in Construction. It’s a time to recognize the incredible contributions women make across every part of our industry—from the jobsite to the boardroom.

Over the past two years, the Thackray team has had the immense pleasure of hosting the Mentoring Young Women in Construction (MYWIC) camp. Personally, it has been one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve been part of. Watching young women explore the construction industry—especially the world of cranes and rigging—has been truly inspiring.

As someone who grew up in this business as an operator, and as the son and grandson of crane operators, sharing my passion for the industry means a lot to me. Seeing the curiosity, creativity, and excitement these young women bring when they get up close with cranes and learn how the work happens behind the scenes is something special. Moments like that remind me how important it is to open doors and share knowledge with the next generation.

Women on construction sites today are far more than just team members—they’re part of the family that makes this industry so strong. They serve in many different roles, from skilled trades in the field to leadership and management positions that help guide projects and companies forward. Their dedication, talent, and perspective make a real difference. They bring creativity, innovation, and collaboration to the jobsite and beyond.

That’s why this week is so meaningful. Women in Construction Week gives us a chance to celebrate the hardworking women who help build our communities every day, while also encouraging the next generation to see the opportunities that exist in the trades.

Programs like MYWIC are an important part of that future. When experienced professionals take the time to mentor and introduce young people to the construction trades, we help ensure the industry continues to grow stronger for years to come.

At Thackray Crane, we’re proud to support these efforts and honored to have played a small role in helping inspire the future women of construction

For the second year in a row, Thackray Crane Rental proudly partnered with the Mentoring Young Women in Construction (MYWIC) Camp, an incredible program hosted by the NAWIC Philadelphia Foundation.

The camp is held during the summer months and is a free, week-long camp that introduces girls in 7th–12th grades to the diverse and rewarding careers available in the skilled trades—many of which are often overlooked as career paths for young women.

At Thackray, we believe that education comes in many forms—and MYWIC is a wonderful example of what it looks like when you expand the conversation beyond traditional college degrees. This camp opens eyes and builds confidence, helping girls see that they can pursue fulfilling, well-paying careers in fields that have long been male dominated.

Hands-On Learning in Action

As part of our ongoing commitment to lifting the next generation, Thackray got heavily involved with MYWIC 2025 and have campers the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of our most powerful equipment. Our cranes were on-site to hoist the official MYWIC banner high into the air—an exciting visual that kicked off a day filled with learning, teamwork, and hands-on experience.

Under the guidance of our skilled operators, campers got the chance to climb into crane cabs and learn about the controls, safety procedures, and real-world applications of this essential machinery. Many of the girls had never been that close to a crane before, let alone operated the controls—and seeing their reactions was a powerful reminder of why this program matters.

Inspiring the Next Generation

We were thrilled to have Mark W. Thackray serve once again as the camp’s instructor for crane operations, bringing passion, patience, and a deep knowledge of the industry to every interaction. His leadership and enthusiasm helped create a welcoming environment where the girls felt comfortable asking questions and trying something new.

This year, we were especially honored to welcome a father-daughter team to the event: Juan and Celeste Sanchez. Juan is a seasoned crane operator with Thackray, and his daughter Celeste is a fourth-year apprentice, crane oiler, and operator who is blazing a trail for women in the trades.

Together, they shared their experiences, answered questions, and showed the campers what’s possible when skill meets opportunity and support.

Celeste’s presence was particularly impactful for these young girls. Seeing another young woman confidently operating cranes and making a career in construction showed campers firsthand that they, too, belong in this space.

Her story is a living example of MYWIC’s mission: to break barriers, inspire leadership, and create access to long-term, family-sustaining careers.

A Community Effort

MYWIC wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of local construction firms and community partners. From providing equipment and facilities to offering time, mentorship, and logistical support, companies across the region come together each year to make this camp a reality. We’re proud to be part of that network, and especially proud of the Thackray team—including our staff and volunteers—who went above and beyond to make the day meaningful for every camper.

We’re also grateful to the team at the NAWIC Philadelphia Foundation for organizing such a thoughtful, empowering program and continuing to provide young women with new perspectives and opportunities.

Lifting the Future, Together

As the cranes soared and the campers smiled, one thing became clear: the future of construction is in good hands.

These young women are curious, capable, and eager to explore what’s possible. With the right exposure and encouragement, they can—and will—become the project managers, operators, engineers, and leaders of tomorrow.

At Thackray, we’re more than a crane company. We’re builders of opportunity. And we’ll continue to support programs like MYWIC that make space for every young person to rise.

In a powerful step towards shaping the future of women in construction, Thackray Crane is proud to host the Mentoring Young Women in Construction (MyWIC) Camp at the Fraternal Order of Police Hall on Caroline Road, right here in Philadelphia. This unique and inspiring camp, designed for girls aged 12 to 17 from the Philadelphia region, is entirely free and aims to open doors to a traditionally male-dominated field. The MyWIC Camp is the brainchild of the NAWIC Philadelphia Foundation and the NAWIC Philadelphia Chapter, both dedicated to promoting and supporting women in the construction industry.

For more details on the fantastic work NAWIC Philadelphia is doing, visit their websites at NAWIC Philadelphia Foundation and MyWIC.

Thackray Crane Rental is thrilled to announce the nomination of two outstanding team members at this year’s Subcontractors Association of Delaware Valley (SADV) 2024 Professional Showcase. This prestigious event serves as a platform to recognize and honor individuals who consistently demonstrate exceptional performance in their respective roles.

Recognizing Excellence and Dedication

The SADV 2024 Professional Showcase is an esteemed occasion that shines a spotlight on individuals who exhibit unparalleled commitment and proficiency within the industry. It celebrates those who continually strive for excellence and go above and beyond in their craft, setting a high standard for their peers.

– Meet the Thackray Crane Nominees –

RoccoDiSalvo – Operator of the Year Nominee

RoccoDiSalvo has been nominated for the esteemed title of Operator of the Year. This nomination stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication, expertise, and exemplary performance in the field. Rocco’s commitment to delivering top-notch service reflects Thackray Crane Rental’s core values of excellence and professionalism.

JohnNewnam – Warehouse Manager of the Year Nominee

John Newnam’s nomination for Warehouse Manager of the Year is a well-deserved recognition of his exceptional leadership and outstanding contributions. His proactive approach, attention to detail, and commitment to operational excellence have made a significant impact, further solidifying Thackray Crane Rental’s position as a leader in the storage and warehousing industry in the Philadelphia area.

Save the Date: Event Details

The SADV 2024 Professional Showcase will take place on Thursday, February 29th, at Live! Casino Philly from 5-8 pm. This highly anticipated event promises an evening filled with networking opportunities, a delightful dinner, and ending with these prestigious awards.

Join Thackray Crane Rental in honoring and supporting our esteemed nominees as they represent our commitment to excellence.

Let’s come together as a community to celebrate the remarkable achievements of RoccoDiSalvo and JohnNewnam! Remember, at Thackray Crane Rental, excellence is not just a standard – it’s our way of life.

October marks an important occasion for the construction industry as it celebrates “Careers in Construction Month.” It’s a time to recognize and appreciate the hard work, dedication, and opportunities that the field of construction provides. One company that stands out in this industry is Thackray Crane. With a rich family heritage and a commitment to excellence, Thackray Crane offers a remarkable working environment that sets it apart as an employer of choice in the Philadelphia area.

A Legacy of Family Values
Thackray Crane is a family-owned business that has been serving its community for over four generations. Since Walter and Anna Thackray started the company in 1947, it has grown to become the most trusted crane rental company in the Delaware Valley. The foundation of Thackray Crane is built upon strong family values, which are deeply ingrained in the company’s culture. From day one, you’ll feel like a part of the Thackray family, surrounded by a supportive and inclusive team.

A Respected Employer
Thackray Crane’s employment team is not just a group of colleagues; they are considered family. This distinction makes Thackray Crane one of the best construction companies to work for in the Philadelphia area. The company takes pride in fostering a positive and collaborative work environment, where every team member is valued and respected. When you join Thackray Crane, you become part of a team that supports and uplifts one another, creating a sense of belonging and camaraderie.

Faith, Family & Country
Thackray Crane embodies the motto of “Faith, Family & Country.” These core values drive the company’s operations and define its relationship with employees. The founders, Walter and Anna Thackray, would be proud to see multiple generations of the Thackray family working alongside project managers, dispatchers, supervisors, operators, oilers, back-office, and support staff. At Thackray Crane, every team member is treated like family, and there is a shared vision to serve each customer with the highest level of integrity.

Opportunities for Growth
Working at Thackray Crane means being part of a company that believes in investing in its employees’ growth and development. The company offers various training programs and advancement opportunities, allowing individuals to enhance their skills and progress in their careers. Whether you’re starting as an operator, sales, or joining the management team, Thackray Crane is committed to helping you reach your full potential.

Making a Difference
Thackray Crane’s work extends beyond merely providing crane rental services. The company takes pride in contributing to the community it serves. As an employee, you’ll have the opportunity to be part of philanthropic initiatives, volunteer programs, and community events organized by Thackray Crane. This provides a chance to make a difference and give back to the communities that have supported the company throughout its long-standing history.

In Conclusion
If you’re considering a career in construction and want to be part of a company that values family, integrity, and growth, then Thackray Crane is the ideal choice. With its rich legacy, renowned reputation, and commitment to its employees and the community, Thackray Crane offers an amazing opportunity to build a fulfilling career. Join the Thackray family and become part of a company that takes pride in its people and the important work they do.