How do I organize crane hire and delivery for my Plungie pool?
This is one of the most important steps of your Plungie installation journey: coordinating the crane hire for when your pool is delivered. Because each Plungie arrives preformed in one large monolithic piece, a crane is used to lift it from the delivery truck and place it precisely into the prepared foundation space. To ensure a safe, efficient, and cost-effective install, this step requires planning.
1. Why Do I Need a Crane?
All Plungie pools are delivered in one piece. They are large, heavy, and require precise placement. The only safe and effective way to place them is by using a crane.
A crane will lift the pool from the delivery truck and lower it into your prepared foundation.
2. Who Organizes the Crane?
You (or your builder) are responsible for hiring a local crane company. Plungie does not organize the crane for you.
It’s best to work with a crane operator who has experience lifting pools or other heavy prefabricated structures.
3. What Type of Crane Do I Need?
The type of crane depends on your pool model and the access to your site. The crane must be able to lift the weight of the pool and reach from the setup point to the pool location.
Some common setups:
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Vacant Lot: The crane can often drive right up—this is the easiest.
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Side Access: If your home has wide, open access on the side, a slew crane may work.
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Over a House: More complicated and expensive. The crane needs a long reach and overhead clearance.
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Corner Lot or Narrow Street: The crane may need to set up in the street. Check local permits.
4. What Should I Tell the Crane Company?
When you call crane companies, give them:
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Your address and site layout
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The pool model (Arena, Studio, Original, or Max)
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A copy of Plungie’s Crane Lifting Guide (provided by Plungie)
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Info about obstructions (trees, power lines, buildings)
Ask them to:
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Conduct a site inspection (most offer this for free)
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Provide a quote based on reach distance and load weight
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Confirm access and setup locations
5. What Does Plungie Provide?
Each pool comes with a certified Crane Lifting Guide that includes:
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Total weight of the unit
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Lift points
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Center of gravity
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Rigging diagrams
This document is for your crane operator and must be reviewed prior to delivery.
6. How Do I Prepare the Site for Crane Delivery?
On delivery day, the crane will arrive either before or at the same time as the Plungie delivery truck. Here's what must be done:
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Clear Access: Ensure there’s no debris, cars, tree limbs, or power lines in the crane setup area.
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Stable Ground: The crane must set up on stable ground. Wet or soft ground is dangerous.
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Traffic Management: If using the street, arrange traffic control in advance.
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Permits: You may need a permit if the crane blocks a road or sidewalk.
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Communication: Your crane operator and delivery driver should be in sync.
7. Important Tips for Crane Day:
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Be on site and ready. Don’t be late—crane time is expensive.
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Your foundation MUST be fully prepared.
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Review the lifting guide with the operator.
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Allow enough room for the crane to swing and extend safely.
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Make sure weather conditions are safe for lifting.
8. FAQs
Q: Can Plungie deliver the pool without a crane?
A: No. All pools require a crane to lift them into place.
Q: How long does the crane lift take?
A: Most lifts are completed within 1–2 hours once the crane is set up.
Q: What if the crane can’t reach?
A: Delivery will be delayed and rescheduled. Additional fees may apply.
Q: Who pays for the crane?
A: The customer or builder is responsible for all crane-related costs.
Q: Can I use a forklift or excavator instead of a crane?
A: No. Due to the weight and dimensions, only certified crane lifts are approved.
Summary: Crane hire and delivery require detailed planning. Get quotes early, confirm access, and make sure your team is prepared. With the right prep, your Plungie will be safely and smoothly lowered into place—bringing you one step closer to enjoying your pool.