Not every tree needs a crane. But when one does, you’ll be glad we brought it.

In tree removal, bigger isn’t always the problem. Access, safety, and structure are often the deciding factors.

At A+ Tree & Crane, we don’t use the crane unless we need to. But when a tree is unstable, unreachable, or too risky to take down by traditional methods, crane-assisted removal becomes the smartest and safest approach. It’s how we protect homes, crews, and property across Raleigh and surrounding communities.

Here’s a look at the real-world signs we watch for when deciding whether it’s time to bring in the crane.

What Makes Crane Tree Removal So Effective?

Cranes give us maximum control in tough situations. Instead of dropping limbs or rigging from a climber, a crane lifts heavy tree sections straight up and away; keeping structures, fences, and landscapes safer.

This method is often used for:

• Tight spaces between homes or buildings
• Trees close to roofs, power lines, or fences
• Storm-damaged or decaying trees
• Sites where access by bucket truck or climbers is limited

We use ground mats to reduce disruption during setup, but it’s important to know that crane work can still cause lawn or surface damage, and we do not cover damage to driveways or hardscapes.

Explore the benefits of crane-assisted tree removal and when it might be the best choice for your property through our blog.

The Tree Is Too Large (or Tall) for Traditional Methods

Some trees in the Raleigh area can exceed 80 feet in height and weigh multiple tons. In these cases, even experienced climbers may struggle to take the tree down safely using sectional rigging.

Cranes allow our team to:

• Remove trees faster and more safely
• Eliminate the need for dropping limbs over structures
• Lift massive trunks and branches cleanly out of the work zone

When traditional techniques slow down removal or put crews at risk, a crane becomes a vital part of our strategy.

According to TCIA, tree care workers experience a fatality rate 30 times higher than the national average. Crane use reduces many of the risks associated with climbing, rigging, and cutting from within the tree.

It’s in a Hard-to-Reach Spot

You might have a tree tucked in a back corner, perched on a slope, or squeezed between fences and buildings. These tight access points are common in Raleigh’s older neighborhoods and newer infill lots—and they present real challenges for traditional removal.

Cranes help by:

• Reaching over structures that would block bucket trucks
• Reducing the need to drive heavy equipment across lawns or landscaping
• Giving us vertical access without damaging surrounding property

We plan each job site carefully to determine the best location for the crane and identify the safest removal route.

Learn how we handle tree removals on residential properties throughout Wake County or learn more about tree removal in general from the International Society of Arboriculture website.

The Tree Is Damaged or Unstable

One of the biggest reasons we recommend a crane is when the tree itself is compromised. This includes:

• Trees that have hollow trunks or root decay
• Limbs hanging over or on top of structures after a storm
• Trees that are leaning, splitting, or resting on homes

When a tree can’t safely support a climber or traditional rigging, it becomes too dangerous to approach without specialized equipment.

Cranes allow our crew to minimize contact with unstable limbs and lift sections away from homes or power lines without causing additional damage.

Speed Is Essential for Safety or Insurance Claims

After major storms in the Raleigh area, the volume of emergency tree calls increases dramatically. Many homeowners need immediate help to:

• Clear blocked driveways
• Remove trees leaning on roofs
• Prevent further water or structural damage

Cranes allow us to:

• Complete removals faster than traditional methods
• Restore access quickly to driveways and walkways
• Protect insured structures from worsening damage

If you’re working with an insurance company, response time and documentation matter. Our team is trained to work within those time-sensitive windows and can often mobilize cranes the same day.

Need help fast? A+ Tree & Crane offers rapid response and crane mobilization. 

Our Crane Process: Safety From Start to Finish

Every crane-assisted job follows a detailed process to keep your property and our team safe:

1. Site Evaluation: Our experts assess tree condition and risk factors
2. Safety Prep: Our crew installs ground mats, safety cones, and establishes clear access
3. Crane Setup: We work with certified crane operators who coordinate each lift
4. Precision Cutting: The climber secures sections of the tree, cuts, and signals the crane lift
5. Debris Management: We chip, haul, or stage large limbs and trunk sections
6. Cleanup: Optional stump grinding is offered after removal, leaving the site clean and ready

You’ll always know who’s on site, what they’re doing, and when it will be done. That’s part of the professionalism we bring to every job.

FAQs: Crane Tree Removal, Answered

Will a crane damage my lawn or driveway?

We use ground protection mats to reduce impact, but there’s always a possibility of turf or surface damage—especially after heavy rain. Cranes are heavy equipment, and we do not cover damage to driveways.

Can I request crane removal even if it’s not required?

Yes. In some cases, crane use can reduce overall job time or minimize disruption to your landscape. We’ll inspect and recommend the most efficient and safe method.

Does crane removal cost more?

Not always. While the cost of dispatching large equipment is a factor, crane use can reduce labor time significantly. For large or complex removals, crane-assisted methods can be more cost-effective than manual takedowns.

Conclusion: When in Doubt, Crane It Out

Not every removal calls for a crane, but when one does, we bring in the best team and tools to get the job done right.

At A+ Tree & Crane Services, we serve Raleigh, Cary, Apex, Wake Forest, and surrounding areas with safe, professional tree removal. Whether your tree is storm-damaged, oversized, or dangerously located, we’ll assess the situation and guide you toward the right approach.

Contact A+ Tree & Crane today to schedule your expert assessment. Our crew is ready with rapid response, experienced arborists, and the equipment to handle your toughest removals safely and efficiently.

Daytime Phone Number: Call 919.854.0020

After Hours Emergency Phone Number: ​​Call 919.868.1193