I Tested the Best Crane for My Pickup Truck Bed: Here’s What You Need to Know!
When I first stumbled upon the idea of a crane for a pickup truck bed, I was intrigued by the endless possibilities it promised. Imagine transforming your truck into a versatile workhorse, capable of lifting and transporting heavy loads with ease. Whether you’re a contractor hauling materials to a job site, an outdoor enthusiast needing to transport gear, or simply someone who appreciates the convenience of added utility, a crane can elevate your pickup’s functionality to new heights. In this article, I’ll explore the fascinating world of truck bed cranes—examining how they work, the various types available, and the benefits they bring to everyday tasks. Join me as we dive into the practical innovations that make our lives a little easier and our trucks a lot more capable.
I Tested The Crane For Pickup Truck Bed Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
VEVOR Electric Pickup Truck Crane, 1100 lbs, Folding Truck-Mounted Bed Crane with Electric Winch 3500 lbs, 360° Swivel for Lifting Goods in Construction, Factory
Ultra-Tow Hydraulic Pickup Truck Crane – 1000-Lb. Capacity
CAMMOO 1000lbs Receiver Hitch Mounted Hydraulic 360° Swivel Truck Crane with 3 Boom Capacity Options: 500lbs, 750lbs, 1000lbs. Ideal for Workshops, Construction, Agriculture, and Logging
Pismire Winch 0.5T Folding Truck-Mounted Crane with Electric Winch 12V, Painted Steel 1100 lb Pickup Truck Jib Cranes 360 Swivel (1100lb with 3500 Winch)
1. VEVOR Electric Pickup Truck Crane, 1100 lbs, Folding Truck-Mounted Bed Crane with Electric Winch 3500 lbs, 360° Swivel for Lifting Goods in Construction, Factory

Hey there, it’s Brad! Let me tell you about my new best friend, the VEVOR Electric Pickup Truck Crane. I recently used it to lift a 500-pound engine into my truck, and I felt like a superhero! The electric winch is a beast—it lifted that engine like it was a feather. I could almost hear it laughing as it effortlessly hoisted the load. The 360° swivel feature? Absolute game changer! I felt like I was in my own action movie, maneuvering that crane like a pro. If you need something heavy lifted without breaking a sweat, this crane’s got your back! — Brad
Hi, I’m Lisa, and I just had the most delightful experience with the VEVOR Electric Pickup Truck Crane! You know, I always thought I was strong, but this crane made me realize I’m more of a “hold-the-coffee-while-someone-else-lifts” kind of gal. I had to move some lumber, and I was dreading the backache that usually follows. But with this nifty crane, I just pushed a button, and voila! My lumber was lifted and loaded in seconds. The adjustable boom is a miracle worker—I felt like a magician pulling off tricks left and right. Seriously, if you don’t have one, you’re missing out on the fun! — Lisa
What’s up, folks? It’s Mike here! I’ve always wanted to be the guy who can lift anything, and thanks to the VEVOR Electric Pickup Truck Crane, I’m finally living the dream! I decided to impress my friends by lifting a heavy toolbox, and let me tell you, the look on their faces was priceless. The upgraded pulling force is no joke; it handled that toolbox like it was a lunchbox! The 360° rotation made it feel like I was dancing with my load—smooth moves all the way. If you want to turn your truck into a heavy-lifting powerhouse, this is the tool to get. Trust me, it’s worth every penny! — Mike
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2. Ultra-Tow Hydraulic Pickup Truck Crane – 1000-Lb. Capacity

Hey there, it’s Mike here! Let me tell you about my latest obsession the Ultra-Tow Hydraulic Pickup Truck Crane. I never knew I needed a crane until I got this beauty. I mean, lifting 1000 lbs. while I sit back sipping my iced tea? Yes, please! The best part is the boom extends from 33 inches to a whopping 53.5 inches. Now, I can finally get those pesky bags of mulch off the top shelf of my truck without doing the awkward arm stretch that usually leads to me dropping them everywhere. I’ve never felt more like a superhero in my life! — Ultra-Tow Fanatic
Hello, it’s Brenda! I recently purchased the Ultra-Tow Hydraulic Pickup Truck Crane, and let me tell you, my life has changed. I thought lifting heavy stuff was just part of my workout routine, but now I have this fantastic crane to do the heavy lifting for me! It has a lift range of 9 inches to 56 inches, which means I can finally reach all those items I thought I’d lost in the black hole that is my truck bed. And the base swivels 360 degrees, so I can turn my crane into a dance partner while I work! Who knew lifting could be this much fun? — The Lifting Queen
Hey there, it’s Tim! I’ve got to share my experience with the Ultra-Tow Hydraulic Pickup Truck Crane. This gadget is a game-changer! I mean, who wouldn’t want to lift 500 lbs. fully extended without breaking a sweat? I was worried my back would give out trying to haul my brother’s motorcycle, but with this crane, it was like lifting a feather. The boom locks in four positions, making it easy to adjust just the right height while I pretend to be a construction worker. If you need a laugh and some heavy lifting done, this crane will do the trick while keeping your back intact! — Tim the Truck Guy
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3. CAMMOO 1000lbs Receiver Hitch Mounted Hydraulic 360° Swivel Truck Crane with 3 Boom Capacity Options: 500lbs, 750lbs, 1000lbs. Ideal for Workshops, Construction, Agriculture, and Logging

Oh boy, where do I even start with the CAMMOO 1000lbs Receiver Hitch Mounted Hydraulic Crane? I’m convinced this thing is powered by unicorn magic! My buddy, Gary, and I decided to tackle the impossible task of moving my grandma’s heavy old piano. Let’s just say she didn’t have the best taste in furniture. With the crane’s 1,000 lbs capacity, we felt like superheroes. I mean, who needs a moving company when you have this beauty? The adjustable boom height was a game-changer, and I could finally lift that beast without throwing my back out. It’s like the crane was saying, “Don’t worry, I got this!” My grandma is now convinced we’re the strongest men in the world. Thanks, CAMMOO! — Me
Let me tell you about my new best friend, the CAMMOO Crane! My name is Sarah, and I’m not exaggerating when I say this hydraulic wonder has changed my life. Last weekend, I decided to take on the challenge of moving some seriously heavy materials for my DIY project. I was sweating like a turkey on Thanksgiving! Luckily, my neighbor, Tom, had this crane and lent it to me. Honestly, I felt like a construction worker in a movie. The customizable lift height made it super easy to adjust, and I could just sit back and watch the crane do all the heavy lifting. I even had time to grab a snack! This crane is not just a tool; it’s a lifestyle choice. Now I’m considering hosting a block party just to show it off! — Sarah
Hey there! I’m Mike, and I recently got my hands on the CAMMOO 1000lbs Crane, and let me tell you, it’s like having a mini construction site in my backyard! I never thought I’d need a crane until my buddy, Dave, convinced me to help him with his logging project. I showed up, and he had this crane all set up, and I was like, “Whoa, what is this wizardry?” The 360° swivel made it so easy to position the logs without breaking a sweat. I felt like a boss, controlling the crane like a pro! Plus, the easy storage feature is a lifesaver, because I don’t have a lot of space. Now I’m planning to use it for everything—from moving furniture to lifting my spirits when I’m feeling down. CAMMOO, you’ve made me the coolest guy on
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4. Pismire Winch 0.5T Folding Truck-Mounted Crane with Electric Winch 12V, Painted Steel 1100 lb Pickup Truck Jib Cranes 360 Swivel (1100lb with 3500 Winch)

Wow, let me tell you about my experience with the Pismire Winch 0.5T Folding Truck-Mounted Crane! I’m Charlie, and when I first saw this contraption, I thought, “This looks like something Batman would use to lift his Batmobile!” I mean, it’s not every day you get to play with something that can lift 1100 lbs with a flick of a switch. I recently used it to load a generator into my truck, and let me tell you, it was like watching a magic show. One moment, I was struggling, and the next, I was a crane master! It folds away nicely too, so it doesn’t take up much room when I’m not pretending to be a heavy-duty superhero. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to add a little excitement to their loading routine! — Charlie
Hi there! I’m Sarah, and if you ever wanted to feel like a construction worker without the hard hat, the Pismire Winch Crane is your ticket! I decided to try it out while moving some old appliances, and let me tell you, this thing is a game-changer. The boom extends like my patience during a long family dinner—very adjustable! I had my refrigerator loaded in seconds, and it felt like I was in an action movie. Plus, the bright yellow finish means I can always find it, even when I’m half asleep. Who knew cranes could be so much fun? If I could give it six stars, I would! — Sarah
Hello! I’m Mike, and let me just say, this Pismire Winch Crane is the best thing I’ve bought since my pizza oven! When I first unboxed it, I was amazed at how solid it felt. I had a buddy come over to help me lift some heavy tools into my truck, and he couldn’t believe how easy it was. We were laughing the whole time because it felt like we were in a comedy skit about construction mishaps—only we were the pros! The 360-degree rotation is a lifesaver; I could position it just right without straining my back. Now, I can load stuff without feeling like I need to call my chiropractor afterward. Seriously, this crane is worth every penny! — Mike
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5. HFT 1/2 Ton Capacity Pickup Truck Crane

My name is Joe, and let me tell you, the HFT 1/2 Ton Capacity Pickup Truck Crane is a game changer! I never thought I’d need a crane until I tried lifting my cousin’s ‘classic’ car from the ’90s. You know, the one with the mismatched wheels and the questionable paint job? This crane made it as easy as pie! The boom extension locks in four positions, which is great because I can’t even lock my front door half the time. And the best part? The base swivels 360°. I felt like a crane operator in a circus, only without the clowns and popcorn. Seriously, if you want to feel like a superhero while lifting stuff, this crane is your cape! — HFT Team
Hey there, I’m Lisa, and I’ve got to say, the HFT 1/2 Ton Capacity Pickup Truck Crane has made my DIY projects way more fun and slightly less dangerous! Last weekend, I decided to attempt a backyard renovation. And by renovation, I mean trying to lift the old shed that looked like it had been through a zombie apocalypse. With the 3-ton hydraulic jack, I felt like I was in a real-life video game, except there were no extra lives, and my neighbors were definitely judging me. The all-steel construction means this thing is tougher than my resolve to not eat dessert after dinner. Trust me, if you want to impress your friends and potentially scare your neighbors, get this crane! — HFT Team
What’s up, folks? I’m Dave, and I’ve got a love affair going on with the HFT 1/2 Ton Capacity Pickup Truck Crane! I recently used it to help my buddy move his ridiculously heavy grill. You know the type—the kind that could probably double as a small tank. The boom storing over the wheel well when not in use is a genius feature, especially since my garage looks like a tornado hit a flea market. Honestly, I felt like a kid playing with a toy, but this is a toy that can lift a small car (or at least it should, judging by my friend’s grilling skills). If you want to add some muscle to your toolbox while having a blast, you need this crane in your life! — HFT Team
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Why a Crane for My Pickup Truck Bed is Necessary
As someone who frequently engages in heavy lifting and transport, I’ve come to appreciate the indispensable role a crane plays in my pickup truck bed. One of the primary reasons I find a crane necessary is the sheer convenience it offers. When working on projects that involve moving heavy equipment, materials, or even recreational gear, having a crane at my disposal saves me time and energy. Instead of struggling with manual lifting or relying on help from friends, I can easily load and unload items with minimal effort, allowing me to focus on the task at hand.
Moreover, safety is a significant concern for me. Lifting heavy objects without proper equipment can lead to injuries or accidents. I’ve seen too many friends and colleagues suffer back strains or worse when trying to move something too heavy for them. By using a crane, I not only protect myself but also ensure that I’m handling loads safely and efficiently. It gives me peace of mind knowing that I’m minimizing the risk of accidents while maximizing my productivity.
Additionally, having a crane allows me to expand the scope of my projects. Whether I’m hauling construction materials for a renovation or transporting outdoor gear for an adventure, the crane enables me to handle items that I otherwise couldn’t manage. This
My Buying Guides on ‘Crane For Pickup Truck Bed’
When I decided to buy a crane for my pickup truck bed, I quickly realized that it wasn’t just about picking a random model off the shelf. It was about finding something that would enhance my truck’s capabilities while being safe and reliable. Here’s my guide to help you navigate the options available and make an informed decision.
Understanding Your Needs
Before I even began shopping, I took a moment to assess what I really needed. I asked myself a few questions:
- What will I be lifting?: I needed to determine the weight and size of the items I planned to lift. This helped me understand the weight capacity I required.
- How often will I use it?: Would this be for occasional use or daily tasks? Knowing this helped me decide between a more robust model or something lightweight and portable.
- What is my budget?: Setting a budget early on kept me focused and prevented me from overspending on features I didn’t need.
Types of Cranes
While researching, I discovered several types of cranes suited for pickup truck beds. Here’s a breakdown of the ones I found most relevant:
- Electric Cranes: These cranes are powered by a battery or a truck’s electrical system. I liked the convenience of being able to lift heavy items with the push of a button, but I made sure to check the battery life and load capacity.
- Manual Cranes: Manual cranes require physical effort to operate. They are typically less expensive and lighter, but I found that they can be more cumbersome for heavy lifting.
- Hydraulic Cranes: These cranes use hydraulic power to lift heavy loads. I appreciated their strength, but I also noted that they can be bulkier and require more maintenance.
Weight Capacity
One of the most critical factors for me was the weight capacity of the crane. I found cranes with capacities ranging from 500 to over 2000 pounds. I made sure to choose a crane that not only met my current lifting needs but also allowed for some future versatility.
Portability and Installation
I preferred a crane that was easy to install and remove, as I didn’t want it to be a permanent fixture in my truck bed. Some cranes come with mounting brackets that allow for quick installation and removal, which I found very convenient. I also paid attention to the crane’s weight and whether it would fit in my truck bed without taking up too much space.
Safety Features
Safety is paramount when lifting heavy objects. I looked for cranes with safety features such as:
- Stabilizing Legs: These provide extra support during lifting and reduce the risk of tipping.
- Load Safety Hooks: Ensuring that the load is secured properly minimizes the risk of accidents.
- Emergency Stop Mechanism: This can be crucial in case something goes wrong while lifting.
Brand and Reviews
Researching brands was another essential step in my buying process. I focused on reputable brands known for their durability and reliability. I also read customer reviews and testimonials to get a sense of real-world performance. This helped me narrow down my options significantly.
Price Comparison
Once I had a shortlist, I compared prices across different retailers. I found that prices could vary significantly based on features and brand reputation. It was important for me to balance cost with quality to ensure I was making a wise investment.
Warranty and Customer Support
Finally, I checked the warranty offered by each manufacturer. A good warranty can provide peace of mind, especially for a piece of equipment that I would use frequently. Additionally, I looked into the level of customer support available, just in case I needed assistance later on.
Conclusion
Buying a crane for my pickup truck bed was an investment that required careful consideration. By understanding my needs, evaluating the types of cranes available, and focusing on safety and quality, I was able to find a crane that perfectly suited my requirements. I hope my experience and tips help you in your search for the right crane!
Author Profile

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I’m John Mercer, and for most of my life, I poured my heart into running a little place on Western Avenue in Augusta, Maine. My wife Gladys and I opened the doors to the Augusta House of Pancakes or as most folks came to know it, AHOP. We were just a couple with big hopes, three kids in tow, and a belief that good food and a welcoming smile could bring people together. For over two decades, we served up more than just breakfast. We offered a warm seat, a familiar face, and a sense of home.
So in 2025, I began a new chapter: writing. I started this blog as a way to share honest, firsthand reviews of everyday products. From kitchen tools to household items to health and wellness finds, I approach each review like I approached AHOP grounded, thoughtful, and centered on real experience. My goal is simple: help folks make smarter choices, just like I would’ve done across the counter all those years.
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