Perry Crane Services has deployed a National Crane NTC45-2 boom truck for tree-removal projects involving restricted access, difficult terrain and trees positioned near buildings.
The West Bridgewater, Massachusetts-based company uses the crane to lift sections from trees that are dead, structurally compromised or positioned over homes and other buildings.
Its work includes sites where hand removal would present a safety risk or where larger cranes cannot reach the tree.
Perry Crane Services owner and operator Travis Perry said: “Most of the work we handle involves extremely difficult removals where access is constrained, or the terrain is too steep, or other equipment simply can’t reach the tree. The NTC45-2 gives us the reach, capacity and compact footprint we need to complete these jobs safely and efficiently.”
The truck is fitted with a 127ft boom and has a lifting capacity of 45USt. Perry Crane Services uses it to remove tree sections weighing between 3,000lb and 5,000lb, as well as base logs weighing nearly 18,000lb.
The National Crane NTC45-2 measures just under 38 ft in overall length, according to its maker, Manitowoc.
The short-wheelbase configuration is intended to help the vehicle enter confined sites and move between jobs without the restrictions associated with larger cranes.
The company also uses the crane for work beside live roads. Perry said the truck’s compact footprint, four-position outriggers and two-camera system can allow his crew to keep one lane open during some lifting operations, rather than closing the entire road.
Perry bought the NTC45-2 after operating an earlier National Crane model and launched his own business in 2023. He has 20 years of experience in tree removal, including 15 years as a crane operator.
“I knew I needed a crane that combined strong lifting performance with a compact package. The NTC45-2 checked every box. The longer outrigger stroke, super-compact configuration, counterweight design and overall versatility make it an incredible machine for the type of work we do,” Perry said.
Shawmut Equipment supported the purchase and provides ongoing service for the truck. Its work includes annual inspections, software updates, repairs and component replacement.
