Mobile cranes play a crucial role in construction and industrial projects by lifting and moving heavy loads. In California, these vehicles are classified as specialized commercial equipment and must adhere to specific regulations set by the DMV to ensure proper operation on public roads.
Mobile cranes can be registered in two ways: as an automobile or as a commercial vehicle. The main difference lies in whether weight fees are required. The key factor is whether the vehicle has any cargo-carrying capacity once the crane is removed. If, after removing the crane, the vehicle can carry a load, like on a flatbed, it will be classified as commercial. However, if removing the crane leaves no space for carrying cargo, it is registered as an automobile. For additional information on mobile cranes click here.
It’s crucial to register your mobile crane correctly because the weight fees for commercial vehicles can be extremely high. Below, you’ll find a list of fees based on your vehicle’s weight. Why pay these hefty fees if you don’t need to? Ensuring proper registration can save you significant costs. That’s why it’s important to work with experts like Quick Auto Tags, who can guide you through the process and help you avoid unnecessary expenses by registering your crane correctly from the start.
| Gross Vehicle Weight Range in Pounds | Fee |
|---|---|
| 10,001–15,000 | $332 |
| 15,001–20,000 | $447 |
| 20,001–26,000 | $546 |
| 26,001–30,000 | $586 |
| 30,001–35,000 | $801 |
| 35,001–40,000 | $937 |
| 40,001–45,000 | $1,028 |
| 45,001–50,000 | $1,161 |
| 50,001–54,999 | $1,270 |
| 55,000–60,000 | $1,431 |
| 60,001–65,000 | $1,562 |
| 65,001–70,000 | $1,701 |
| 70,001–75,000 | $2,004 |
| 75,001–80,000 | $2,064 |
Please refer to this page from the DMV’s website for further information on weight fees
It’s not uncommon for cranes to be misclassified during registration, often due to a lack of knowledge either from the VIN verifier or the person handling the registration. These mistakes usually originate in the VIN verification process. To avoid costly errors, it’s essential to contact professionals like Quick VIN Verification – click here to speak with them.
If you need to correct a crane’s classification from commercial to auto, follow these steps:
When mobile cranes travel on highways, operators must be mindful of size and weight limitations. The DMV has specific guidelines for oversized cranes on public roads, often requiring special permits for compliance. To ensure safe transportation, the crane’s dimensions must adhere to legal standards, and proper signage and warnings should be displayed during transit. This applies to both the “automobile” OR “commercial” designattion.
In California, regardless of an “automobile” or “commercial” classification, mobile cranes must have a Motor Carrier Permit, which is issued by the DMV. This permit ensures that crane operators adhere to state safety standards, insurance requirements, and environmental regulations. Securing a Motor Carrier Permit is a vital step for companies that use these vehicles to ensure compliance with the law. If you need a Motor Carrier Permit, click here and learn more.
