Understanding and Insuring Vehicles with Fixed Hiabs

What is a fixed Hiab?

Vehicles fitted with a fixed Hiab (crane) are becoming more popular in the transport and construction world, and for good reason. They offer dual-purpose use, combining haulage with lifting capability, and are a practical and cost-effective solution for many businesses.

  A Hiab is usually mounted on a rigid lorry or just behind the cab of an articulated unit. Most commonly, you’ll find it on a rigid vehicle. These lorries are used to load and unload the goods they’re carrying, which can save you from hiring a separate crane for a few hours or a day - something that can be very expensive.

  A vehicle with a built-in Hiab costs far less and can do the job on site.

  Because the Hiab allows you to place items in a specific spot on site, like lifting roof trusses from the ground to the first floor, it's more than just a delivery tool. It becomes part of your equipment, or what insurers call a ‘tool of trade’.  

Where the insurance side of things becomes important

When the Hiab is used to load or unload goods being transported, this falls under haulage use, and is usually covered by your Goods in Transit policy.

  When the Hiab is used to move items around on-site - say, positioning something once it's been delivered - this is considered machinery movement, and not covered by Goods in Transit.

  In this case, you need a separate machinery movement policy.

  If you're using your vehicle in both ways - for delivery and on-site lifting - it's essential that your insurance reflects this. The wrong cover could leave you exposed if something goes wrong.

  That’s why it’s vital to work with a specialist broker who understands exactly how you use your vehicle.

  A one-size-fits-all policy won’t cut it for specialist businesses. The right advice means the right protection, keeping you and your business moving safely.

 

The team at Ascend Broking Group understands the complexities of using a Hiab and all the insurance implications. Get in touch with us today so we can help you find the right cover for your vehicles and your business. Call 01245 449060 or email lawrence.fuller@ascendbroking.co.uk.