If you have a dead, decaying, or otherwise damaged tree in your yard, you may be wondering about the crane-assisted tree removal cost.
Having such a tree poses a danger to your property as well as your safety.1 So, you may need to hire a tree removal service company with enough experience using a crane to carefully remove big, dangerous, and hard-to-reach trees. Knowing how to negotiate tree removal, in this case, can save you money, and so can a list of free tree removal options.
Use this tool to calculate crane assisted tree removal cost right now.
A professional arborist should effectively and without causing damage to your property or remaining trees, remove large and difficult-to-access trees.
Through their years of experience, skilled arborists will be able to keep your property and those of your neighbors safe during the operation.
Crane-Assisted Tree Removal Cost Calculator
By using the calculator above, you can get a good idea of how much your tree removal will cost.
Without a doubt, using a crane to help with tree removal is the best option. In the tree service industry, cranes are the second-best innovation after the chainsaw.
Conventional tree removal practices are often time-consuming and labor-intensive. In comparison to the crane-aided tree removal technique, they typically produce subpar outcomes and need intricate rigging and lowering to avoid impediments.
When a crane is used during the tree removal procedure, both the time needed and the impact on the surrounding area are significantly reduced.
A pro tree removal service can remove trees without causing any damage by operating a crane safely, effectively, and more affordably than anyone could with more traditional processes.
This complete guide explains crane-assisted tree removal processes and more importantly, why the crane-assisted tree removal cost is the price it is for various trees.
Crane tree removal requires a combination of art and science. Because no two trees are the same, each one requires a unique approach.
Understanding the Crane-Assisted Tree Removal Process
Step 1: The tree removal crew will do a site assessment when they arrive, and they will choose the ideal location for the crane setup during their pre-work session. There will be several issues that will be considered. Elevation/grade variations, obstructions in the air, a human’s proximity to the landing and pickup regions, and of course, crane space.
Step 2: The crane will be put up and positioned once it has been securely hauled into the work zone. For cribbing and extra height, plywood and other materials such as 66 wood blocks will be used. The crane has five outriggers or stabilizers that lift it off the ground and provide stability when it is in use. To maintain stability while in operation, the crane has to be completely level all the way around. It often takes thirty minutes or more to set up, which is longer than it does to lift a regular tree.
Step 3: Because each tree is unique, a customized removal strategy will be required. The operator and climber will plan the removal procedure before lowering the tree climber/cutter into position. There will be meticulous planning and discussion for each cut and lift. The task will start after a removal strategy is defined. Numerous factors need to be taken into account initially, including the weight of the parts to be removed, their angle and growth pattern, and the size of the space they will need to be carried through and dropped into. Before the cutting, the climber and operator must be able to precisely determine the weight of the unit.
If the crane’s operational capacity is surpassed, the crane may tip over. The angle and pattern of growth also play a part in the decision-making process. Large horizontal branches on oaks will necessitate different rigging and lifting techniques than a vertically growing Pine Tree.
Step 4: Now to the real fun part of the whole operation—the actual tree removal.3 The climber will fix his support line just above the crane ball and then signal for the operator to elevate him to the predetermined location where the crane will hook to the tree for removal. After the rope to the crane’s hook has been securely fastened to the tree, tension will then be applied. The climber will thereafter descend down the tree to the intended cut point, where he will attach his lifeline to the tree. He will then secure himself and make the right cut for the setting.
Step 5: The ground operations expert will release the cable and give the crane operator the all-clear to reattach it for the upcoming pick. They’ll chop it up like a gang of irate termites with chainsaws. All branches will be removed from pieces bigger than ten inches in diameter, and they will be graded, chopped into certain lengths, and graded so that we may sell them to the mill. The chipper will be used to make mulch out of pieces that are less than 10 inches in size.
Step 6: The hooking and cutting operation is repeated until the tree has been removed completely.
How To Negotiate Crane-Assisted Tree Removal Cost
The tree removal process can be extremely costly, so understanding where you can possibly save money and how to negotiate with the service provider can help you save up to half the given price.
Before you even get started with your first tree removal, you need to ensure that the deck is stacked in your favor. You can achieve this by hiring during the time of year when tree services are cheaper.
If you have already received a tree service quote, this information will be beneficial in contacting them and negotiating a better price.
Tree Removal With Crane Costs
The cost of tree services will vary according to the size of the tree, the ease of access, and the complexity of the task. The price ranges depending on the size and position of the trees on the property are listed below.
A tree’s cost will be significantly lower if it is in a front yard without any obstructions than if it were behind a back shed with electric cables running through it.
It’s important to note that there’s also an emissions eco-cost to tree removal, but you can use an ecological footprint calculator to measure those impacts.
Time is money; thus, the more quickly and easily a tree can be removed by a tree service, the less money it will charge. Getting multiple quotes is a good idea because tree prices vary based on the location and tree service.
Check out the prices shown below if you need to get rid of a tree for landscaping or because it is an invasive species.
Tree Types | Size | Front Yard | Backyard |
Small Tree | Up to 15 ft. | $355 | $580 |
Medium Tree | 15 to 25 ft. | $620 | $1,190 |
Large Tree | 15 to 60 ft. | $1,390 | $3,250 |
Extra Large Tree | 60 to 120 ft. | $4,100 | $7,850 |
Multiple Trees (3) | 25 to 60 ft. | $2,700 | $12,500 |
Factors That Influence Crane-Assisted Tree Removal Cost
The number of trees, the height, diameter, and accessibility of a tree all influence how much it will cost to remove it. Because a tree service has such high overhead and operating expenses, tree removal businesses have to charge a lot of money.
Any tree removal project requires a climber and a ground team of at least three people.
The majority of businesses spend $200,000 or more on capital expenditures only to buy the large, appropriate equipment needed to run their businesses. This might include a cherry picker, crane, bobcat, chipper, and truck. Since the grounds crew and climbers are paid so handsomely,5 operating expenses are also raised.
The cost of insurance for tree services includes public liability insurance, workers’ compensation insurance, and coverage for any large, sophisticated equipment.
You can see that the business has to earn far over $1,500 every day to break even. This explains why massive tree removal projects are so expensive.
Cost Per Foot: How Tall Is Your Tree?
Depending on how tall the tree is that need to be removed, this will impact the crane assisted tree removal cost. In contrast to larger trees, smaller trees often cost less per foot. Trees under 30 feet tall are thought to be shorter and less expensive to cut down.
Even the smallest trees may be removed for as little as $8 per foot, while larger trees might cost $15 or more.
Finding Crane-Assisted Tree Removal Cost Near You
The cost of tree removal varies depending on where you live. To remove trees in some areas, permits or other particular criteria are required. You may also need to seek permission to remove native and/or protected tree species, which may incur additional costs.
If you reside in a sunny area and need a problematic palm tree removed, you may actually spend less (between $40 and $320) since palm trees are softer wood that is easier to cut down. On the other hand, residents in areas with changing seasons can take advantage of off-season reductions offered by some tree removal services during the colder months.
The price of removing a tree might vary depending on state restrictions, such as environmental legislation or approval requirements.4 Here are the prices for cutting down trees in a number of states in the United States.
Urban vs. Rural
Rural vs urban areas may well have different crane-assisted tree removal cost. In a city, services are more accessible and are probably not going to charge you for the time it takes to get to your property.
If you reside in a remote region, a tree removal company will charge a fixed cost of $50 to $200 or around $0.50 per mile to get to your property.
Tree Removal by Type
Some trees have the potential to reach heights of up to 100 feet or even more. Bur oak, American ash, and maple are believed to be more expensive to remove than the others and, as a result, will cost more to do so.
Cost Per Tree
Removing a tree that is small and has a short trunk, few branches, and is accessible will cost at least $200. Before an expert can remove the tree itself, some with extensive branches may even require certain pieces to be tugged down using ropes.
The most difficult tasks may cost up to $2,000 or more.
Also, know that if you have more than one tree that is damaged and needs to be removed, the crane assisted tree removal cost can be discounted.
Oak
The removal of an oak tree is prohibited in certain places, including California, as they are treasured historical trees.
Trees like the Redwoods, Douglas fir, and Santa Cruz cypress are also included in this category. So, for these, you’ll need to find out the answer to can I cut down a tree on my property without getting a permit.
If you find out you can remove an oak tree after getting in touch with your city’s planning and construction department, you’ll probably pay $800 for a 60-foot tree; oak trees may grow up to 100 feet, so the typical range is between $200 and $2,000.
Palm Tree Removal
Palm trees are incredibly heavy, weighing anything from 100 to 1,000 pounds per truck foot, based on the variety.
As a result, the cost of removing a palm tree between 35 and 60 feet tall is $650. Prices for palm trees taller than 80 feet will range between $1,100 and $1,500.
You can also use a palm tree removal cost calculator to figure the amount you’ll pay, or try finding out how much to trim palm trees by using a palm tree trimming cost calculator.
Maple Trees
Because of their massive branches and 100-foot height, a maple tree can be expensive to remove.
You should budget $250 to $2,000 for this.
Cedar Trees
The cedar tree in your yard might be a “real cedar,” which is endemic to high-altitude areas such as the Himalayas or the Mediterranean and can grow to 160 feet tall. Faux cedars, on the other hand, are more widespread in North America and appear quite similar to actual cedars.
The fake variant can grow to be 50 to 230 feet tall. A cedar can cost between $250 and $1,500 to remove, depending on its height.
Ash Tree
These 80-foot-tall trees have branches that may extend as far as 25 feet, and removal can run anywhere between $250 and $1,800.
Ash tree removal, like all trees, will be determined by the specific conditions.
Aspen Tree
Aspen trees, like cottonwoods and balsams, are poplars. These trees may grow to heights of 90 to 115 feet. Aspens can cost $1,000 to $1,800 to remove due to their intricate and extensive root structure.
The Japanese Knotweed
Japanese knotweed is a shrub, not a tree. It is often misidentified as a tree because it may grow up to 10 feet tall and is quite invasive; in fact, some jurisdictions, including Michigan,2 restrict its possession or introduction. It spreads quickly and aggressively through rhizomes (underground stems) that can grow to be 40 feet long.
Japanese knotweed has been reported to grow so vigorously that it has ripped the flooring out from beneath some people’s homes. If you find a few young plants, remove them right away, taking care to eliminate all the roots and rhizomes as well.
A professional would most likely charge based on the square footage of the area infested with knotweed and the severity of the infestation. Prices will most likely range from $2,000 to $10,000.
What Is the Cost of Crane-Assisted Tree Removal Near California and Other States?
In California, the costs of tree removal usually include the permit required to remove a tree on your property.
However, it’s important to double-check to make sure before signing an agreement.
State | Cost |
Crane-assisted tree removal near Florida | $766 |
Crane-assisted tree removal near Georgia | $810 |
Crane-assisted tree removal near Hawaii | $1106 |
Crane-assisted tree removal near Idaho | $766 |
How Can I Get a Low-Income Tree Removal Service?
If you are working on a tight budget and want to have multiple trees removed, you may have to prioritize the trees that pose a hazard and have the rest removed at a later time.
The lowest price you should anticipate paying for tree removal is $200. One small tree, usually between 15 and 30 feet tall, will be cut down for this amount. However, stump removal would be more expensive; therefore, if money is tight, the stump is likely to remain in place.
Again, without including the cost of stump removal, the removal of a tree roughly 30 feet tall will cost $420. For about $1,200, you may have a tree up to 60 feet tall removed. You might also manage to cut down two or three small trees for this amount.
Large trees have thicker trunks than smaller trees, which makes removal more challenging even when they are taller. You’ll spend about $800 for large trees with thick trunks that are about 60 feet tall. Costs for trees up to 80 feet tall will be roughly $1,500. For this price range, you could also have three to four tiny trees or two medium-sized trees removed.
Even though very large trees might look lovely, their enormous tree roots can destroy lawns, pipelines, roadways, and even home foundations, which can be problematic for homeowners.
The crane-assisted tree removal cost for a tree that is 80 feet tall or taller is at least $2,000. If you have a budget of $1,000 to $2,000 and you don’t have a very large tree to remove, you may potentially get up to ten small trees, roughly three or four medium-sized trees, or two large trees removed for this sum.
To get rid of any remaining stumps, you can also contact a nearby professional stump removal service.
If you are looking for a tree removal service that is within your budget, you can compare crane assisted tree removal cost amounts by contacting different companies and requesting a quote.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crane-Assisted Tree Removal Cost
What Is a Tree Removal Cost Calculator?
A tree removal calculator is a tool that uses industry-standard techniques and updated costs to estimate the costs of tree removal services.
How Long Does Crane Tree Removal Take?
While some trees may be felled in only 15 minutes, others may require several hours. It usually takes longer to remove a tree in an area that is more congested or populated.
How Much Does It Cost To Cut Down a 100 ft Tree?
The cost to remove a smaller tree is $400 or less. Tree removal can cost up to $2,000 for trees up to 100 feet tall.
How Much Does Tree Removal With Crane Cost?
Crane-assisted tree removal cost vary based on factors such as the tree size, variety, and where you reside.
Where Do I Learn How To Find a Good Tree Removal Service?
Verify the Better Business Bureau accreditation of the questioned firm. Although the BBB is not as powerful as it once was, accreditation is still a reliable sign of a trustworthy service.
What Is the Cost of Crane-Assisted Tree Removal Near Me?
Crane-assisted tree removal cost vary depending on tree size, accessibility, location, and the intricacy of the work. Depending on these factors, it may cost as low as $200 or as high as $2000.
Can I Learn How To Negotiate Tree Removal?
You can get quotes from several local service providers to get a negotiating advantage since you’ll have a better idea of what the average cost should be. Ask them to leave the stump so you can hire a stump removal service or do it yourself. You can also do a clean-up prior to the removal and remove all debris in the area to make the team’s work easier.
Where Can I Find a Crane for Tree Removal for Sale?
To find a tree removal crane for sale, you can search the internet for a local seller or ask friends and acquaintances. Ensure to seek professional guidance to help you get the right one for your needs.
Is There Crane Tree Removal Near Me?
Crane-assisted tree removal services are easy to find if you ask around or search the internet. Look for a service that has years of experience removing all kinds and trees and employs licensed arborists.
What Is Crane Tree Service?
Cranes are specialized machinery used by experienced arborists to remove trees. Few tree service businesses are ready to embark on the laborious task of safely removing unhealthy trees without a crane since it is extremely challenging. Cranes not only make the task safer, but they also make it more effective and less likely to cause collateral harm to the surroundings.
Is Crane Rental for Tree Removal Available?
Cranes are expensive, and not all tree removal services have their own. There are companies that offer crane rental for tree removal at affordable prices.
Do I Qualify for the Tree Removal Assistance Program?
The tree removal assistance program is for those who can afford to hire the services. Most of these programs are designed for farmers whose orchards have suffered damage caused by natural calamities. Homeowners can receive assistance through grants and exchanging tree removal services for wood.
What Is Grapple Saw Tree Removal?
This is a safe and efficient way of removing trees without the need to cut by hand, climb or rig.
How Does the Tree Grapple Saw Truck Work?
The grapple truck operator stands by and uses radio control to remove the tree from the ground, avoiding the hassle of cutting, rigging, and climbing.
What Size Crane for Tree Removal Is Suitable?
You may have a medium-sized tree, but removing it requires a long reach, necessitating a big crane. The ideal crane size is 100 tons which should cover the majority of tasks. A 150 or 180-tonne crane is the next level forward.
What Is the Average Cost To Cut Down a Tree?
The average tree removal cost lies between $700-$750, with the standard costs being $200-$2000.
Where Can I Find Inexpensive Tree Removal?
The cost of removing a tree depends on its size, and large trees often cost more to remove than small ones. You can negotiate the charges with your provider by having them leave the stump.
References
1Connecticut’s Official State Website. (2019, October). Urban Wood Utilization in Connecticut: Reasons for the Removal of Urban Trees. Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. Retrieved September 23, 2022, from <https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Forestry/Urban-Forestry/Reasons-for-the-Removal-of-Urban-Trees>
2State of Michigan. (2022). Invasive Species: Japanese Knotweed. Michigan Invasive Species. Retrieved September 23, 2022, from <https://www.michigan.gov/invasives/id-report/plants/shrubs/japanese-knotweed>
3NSW Government. (2022). Plant Used in Connection With Tree Lopping – Crane Access Method Position Paper. SafeWork. Retrieved September 23, 2022, from <https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/resource-library/administrative-and-support-services-publications/plant-used-in-connection-with-tree-lopping-crane-access-method-position-paper>
4United States Department of Labor. (2021, June 24). Inspection Guidance for Tree Care and Tree Removal Operations. Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Retrieved September 23, 2022, from <https://www.osha.gov/memos/2021-06-30/inspection-guidance-for-tree-care-and-tree-removal-operations>
5United States Government. (2022, March 31). 37-3013 Tree Trimmers and Pruners. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved September 23, 2022, from <https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes373013.htm>
6U.S. Department of Agriculture. (2022). Grants & Agreements. Forest Service. Retrieved October 1, 2022, from <https://www.fs.usda.gov/working-with-us/grants>
7Photo by U.S. Forest Service- Pacific Northwest Region. Flickr. Retrieved from <https://www.flickr.com/photos/forestservicenw/24833265840/>