CraneWorks and Hammar Lift expand Sideloader Solutions across USA
CraneWorks has taken another deliberate step in reshaping the heavy lifting landscape in North America, announcing a strategic partnership with Hammar Lift Inc, the United States division of Hammar, the global specialist in Sideloader trailers and superstructures. The agreement positions CraneWorks as the U.S. installation, service, and parts support partner for Hammar Sideloaders, extending the reach of Hammar’s container-handling technology through CraneWorks’ nationwide footprint.
The move reflects a broader shift across construction, infrastructure, logistics, and industrial markets. Lifting requirements are no longer confined to vertical crane operations on traditional jobsites. Instead, contractors and logistics operators are seeking equipment that blends lifting, transport, and placement into a single, efficient workflow. The CraneWorks and Hammar Lift partnership is designed to meet that demand head on.
Expanding Beyond Traditional Crane Models
CraneWorks has long been recognised as a full-service provider of crane rental, sales, parts, and service across North America, with a strong presence in construction, oil and gas, infrastructure, and industrial sectors. By aligning with Hammar Lift, the company is broadening its portfolio beyond conventional crane solutions into specialised container handling and logistics applications.
Mike Evans, President and COO of CraneWorks, framed the partnership as a natural extension of the company’s strategy: “We’re excited to join forces with Hammar Lift because their best-in-class Sideloader technology complements our goal of expanding lifting solutions beyond traditional crane models and into broader logistics, transport, and specialised lifting applications.”
That expansion is not simply about adding another product line. It reflects an understanding that many customers are operating across increasingly complex supply chains, where speed, safety, and flexibility are non-negotiable. Sideloader technology allows containers, flat racks, and heavy units to be lifted and positioned precisely where needed, often without additional handling equipment.
Why Sideloader Technology Matters
Hammar brings more than 50 years of engineering and operational experience to the partnership, having delivered Sideloader units to over 125 countries worldwide. A Hammar Sideloader integrates two hydraulic sideloading cranes with a semi-trailer or truck, enabling efficient loading, unloading, stacking, and transport of containers and oversized loads.
The appeal of the Sideloader lies in its versatility. Unlike conventional lifting arrangements that may require cranes, reach stackers, or forklifts working in tandem, a Sideloader can often complete the task independently. Operated by a single trained individual, the machine is designed to be intuitive to learn and supported by a comprehensive safety system.
Key capabilities typically include:
- High lifting capacities suitable for heavy containers and flat racks
- The ability to stack containers and transfer units on and off other vehicles
- Precise placement in confined or remote locations
- Reduced reliance on additional lifting equipment
For industries managing time-sensitive or space-constrained operations, those attributes translate directly into reduced handling risk, faster turnaround, and lower operational costs.
Safety, Simplicity, and Single-Operator Efficiency
Safety remains a central consideration in heavy lifting and logistics, particularly as sites become more congested and operations more decentralised. Hammar Sideloaders are designed around what the company describes as a smart and simple philosophy, combining robust engineering with user-focused controls.
The machines’ single-operator model reduces communication errors and coordination challenges that can arise when multiple machines and crews are involved. Integrated safety systems, stable lifting geometry, and controlled hydraulic movements further support safe operations, even in demanding environments.
For CraneWorks customers, access to this technology through a trusted service partner adds another layer of confidence. Equipment performance is only part of the equation. Reliable installation, maintenance, and parts availability are equally critical to keeping assets productive and compliant.
Nationwide Support Through an Established Network
A defining feature of the agreement is CraneWorks’ role as the U.S. installation, service, and parts support partner for Hammar equipment. The partnership will initially focus on establishing localised parts supply and comprehensive service coverage across the country.
That nationwide reach is a significant factor for customers operating across multiple regions or states. Downtime caused by delayed service or unavailable parts can quickly erode the operational benefits of advanced equipment. By leveraging CraneWorks’ existing infrastructure, Hammar gains an established support backbone in the U.S. market.
David Gustafsson, Vice President of Hammar Lift Inc, highlighted the strategic importance of the collaboration: “Joining with CraneWorks is a key step in broadening our footprint in the United States. CraneWorks’ nationwide service network, heavy-equipment expertise, and customer-first culture make them an ideal partner for supporting our Sideloader solutions in the U.S. marketplace.”
Strengthening Market Presence in the United States
While Hammar is a global leader in Sideloader manufacturing, the U.S. market presents unique opportunities and challenges. Infrastructure investment, port modernisation, energy projects, and large-scale logistics operations continue to drive demand for flexible lifting and transport solutions.
The partnership with CraneWorks provides Hammar with a platform to scale more rapidly in the United States, supported by local expertise and established customer relationships. For CraneWorks, the agreement enhances its value proposition by offering clients a broader range of lifting solutions tailored to modern logistics and industrial workflows.
This alignment reflects a wider industry trend. Equipment providers are increasingly expected to deliver integrated solutions rather than isolated machines. Customers want partners who understand their operational realities and can adapt equipment offerings accordingly.
Backed by Long-Term Investment
CraneWorks’ ability to pursue strategic partnerships has been reinforced by its relationship with Equity Group Investments, the private investment firm founded by Sam Zell. In October 2023, CraneWorks partnered with and received an investment from the firm, providing additional capital and strategic support.
Equity Group Investments has a long-standing reputation for building and scaling businesses across economic cycles, with a portfolio spanning healthcare, transportation and logistics, infrastructure, energy, industrial manufacturing, and agri-business. Its approach as a long-term, hands-on investor aligns with CraneWorks’ focus on sustainable growth rather than short-term expansion.
That backing adds weight to CraneWorks’ strategic initiatives, including partnerships like the one with Hammar Lift, which require investment in people, infrastructure, and service capability.
Practical Benefits for Contractors and Operators
For end users, the CraneWorks and Hammar partnership is likely to be measured less by corporate announcements and more by practical outcomes on the ground. Access to Sideloader technology through a familiar service provider simplifies procurement decisions and ongoing support.
Operators in construction, infrastructure development, oil and gas, and industrial logistics stand to benefit from:
- Reduced dependence on multiple pieces of lifting equipment
- Improved safety through integrated lifting and transport
- Faster mobilisation and demobilisation on site
- Greater flexibility in remote or constrained locations
These advantages are particularly relevant as projects face increasing pressure to deliver safely, efficiently, and with minimal disruption.
Positioning for the Future of Heavy Lifting
The partnership between CraneWorks and Hammar Lift is not simply about introducing a new product to the U.S. market. It reflects a broader repositioning of how heavy lifting solutions are defined and delivered. As supply chains evolve and projects become more complex, the boundaries between lifting, transport, and logistics continue to blur.
By combining CraneWorks’ service-driven model with Hammar’s proven Sideloader technology, the two companies are positioning themselves at the intersection of those disciplines. For customers navigating tight schedules, challenging sites, and heightened safety expectations, that integrated approach may prove increasingly valuable.
Rather than replacing traditional cranes, Sideloader solutions add another tool to the lifting toolbox. In doing so, they offer contractors and operators greater choice, adaptability, and control over how heavy loads are moved, handled, and placed across North America.
