Do I Need a Crane to Install a Large Tree? Here’s What You Should Know
When Do You Need a Crane for Tree Installation?
Cranes are generally required when:
• The tree is too heavy or bulky to be moved manually or with basic machinery
• There is limited or obstructed site access
• The tree needs to be placed with precision near pools, retaining walls, or built structures
• The combined weight of the rootball and trunk exceeds 1.5–2 tonnes, which is common for larger trees
If you’re unsure, we’ll assess your tree size, species, and site layout to determine whether a crane is needed.
How Much Do Large Trees Weigh?
The weight of a mature tree can vary significantly depending on the species, trunk height, and rootball volume.
• Smaller mature trees (approx. 3–4m trunk): Range from 1.2 to 4+ tonnes
• Larger specimens (6–12m trunk): Can exceed 6 to 10+ tonnes, particularly dense species like Canary Island Date Palms
For example, a 3m Cabbage Palm might weigh around 1.2 tonnes, while a 3m Canary Island Date Palm can weigh over 4 tonnes on its own due to its dense trunk and crown.
✅ We provide accurate weight estimates in your quote to ensure the right crane is arranged.
What Happens on the Day of Installation?
Step 1 – Delivery and Crane Coordination
We coordinate both the freight and crane hire, ensuring the tree arrives safely and is lifted into position efficiently.
A qualified landscaper, installer, or site representative should be present to oversee the final planting. While our team does not attend site directly, we provide clear documentation, specifications, and support beforehand — and can assist in arranging an experienced professional to be onsite if needed.
Most clients organise their own landscaper, but we’re happy to recommend or help coordinate one if required.
Step 2 – Placement and Finishing Touches
Once craned into the pre-prepared hole, the onsite installer is responsible for:
• Guiding the final alignment of the tree
• Backfilling the hole firmly and evenly
• Ensuring the rootball is planted level with or slightly above ground height
• Applying mulch and water as needed
✅ Fronds should remain tied up for the first 6 weeks to support the canopy
✅ Products like Seasol can be applied post-install to reduce transplant stress
✅ Ongoing watering and care should follow the guidelines we provide.
Can You Install a Large Tree Without a Crane?
Sometimes — yes. If the tree is relatively small and the site is wide open with good access, alternatives like forklifts or bobcats can be used.
However, for many of the mature palms and feature trees we supply, a crane is:
• Safer for the tree and surrounding property
• More precise, especially in tight or high-end areas
• Often required due to trunk thickness and rootball weight
We’ll always guide you toward the most efficient and cost-effective method for your project.
Crane Installation Areas We Service
We provide crane-assisted tree installation support across:
• Gold Coast & Sunshine Coast
• Sydney, Newcastle & regional NSW
• Melbourne & surrounding VIC
• Adelaide and wider South Australia
• As well as many locations in between
We regularly work with clients in both metro and regional areas — just ask if you're unsure about access or coverage.
Why Choose Prestige Palm Solutions?
• Experience with mature palm and tree installs and coordination
• Crane lifting and freight arranged for you
• Accurate species-specific weights and access info provided
• Guidance on site prep, crane planning, and care after planting
• High-quality, clean-trunk trees and palms selected for performance and impact
We handle the logistics so you can focus on the result.