John Sutch Cranes has lifted a tracked Multidrill PL G geotechnical drilling rig onto a VolkerMarine Services barge at Liverpool’s Cruise Terminal, carrying out a precision lifting operation along the River Mersey.
The company deployed its Liebherr LTM 1040-2.1 mobile crane to transport the heavy equipment from a flatbed lorry directly onto the barge.
The barge had already been loaded with hydraulic power packs, generators, and drill casing required for marine ground investigation and borehole drilling.
This operation called for a high degree of accuracy, as the transfer involved moving a multi-tonne tracked machine from a stationary vehicle to a floating barge while taking into account tidal movements and load balance.
John Sutch Cranes, familiar with work across Liverpool’s maritime infrastructure, executed the lift in full view of ferry passengers and others at the busy waterfront location.
Spectators included passengers on the Mersey Ferry, those awaiting departures to the Isle of Man from the terminal, and cruise ship visitors docked nearby.
John Sutch Cranes technical sales representative Mick Turner organised the operation.
Turner said: “It’s not all about the sheer size of the crane or the load. It’s about doing it properly and safely. We do that every time.”
The company, established as a family-run business, has long provided precision lifting services within Liverpool and across the country.
John Sutch Cranes states that safety and precise execution are central to its work, often delivering complex lifts in environments where reliability and careful planning are essential.
In July 2025, John Sutch Cranes expanded its fleet with a Sany SAC600E all-terrain crane, which has a 60t lifting capacity.
The crane features a six-section telescopic boom that extends to 50m, with the option to reach 66.5m when fitted with a jib.
