In the world of New Zealand transport, efficiency and precision make all the difference. Whether you’re moving steel beams across Auckland, lifting glass panels onto a construction site, or delivering equipment to a marine vessel, the right truck for the job can save time, labour, and risk.
That’s where Hiab transport comes in — a smarter, more flexible way to handle heavy or complex freight that needs a lift on both ends of the journey.
At RPC Logistics, our Hiab crane truck hire solutions in Auckland have been trusted by Kiwi businesses for decades. But what exactly is Hiab transport, and how do you know when you need it? Let’s break it down.
What Is Hiab Transport?
A Hiab truck is a heavy vehicle fitted with a hydraulic crane (also called a truck-mounted loader crane) that allows it to lift and position heavy loads without needing separate lifting gear or forklifts.
In short, it’s both a truck and a crane in one.
That built-in flexibility makes it ideal for moving freight that’s too bulky, heavy, or awkward to load by hand — anything from concrete panels and shipping containers to machinery or palletised goods.
Because the crane is mounted directly to the truck chassis, a Hiab can:
At RPC Logistics, our Hiab fleet supports a wide range of industries including construction, concrete fabrication, steel, glass manufacturing and installation, marine, and port operations. If it needs lifting, we’ve probably done it.
When Do You Need Hiab Transport?
Hiab transport is the right choice when your freight needs more than just a ride — it needs muscle, reach, or precision.
Here are some common scenarios where a Hiab truck is the smarter option:
Construction and Building Sites
Hiab trucks make light work of delivering steel beams, framing, concrete panels, and roofing materials directly to site.
Because the crane can position items exactly where they’re needed — even on upper levels or behind barriers — it saves crews hours of manual handling and site setup.
Ports and Marine Operations
For vessel loading, unloading, or marine engine transport, Hiabs can lift cargo straight from truck to deck or dockside, reducing turnaround times and double-handling.Because the crane can position items exactly where they’re needed — even on upper levels or behind barriers — it saves crews hours of manual handling and site setup.
Container and Project Work
Need to move, unload, or relocate shipping containers? Hiabs are designed for it. Whether it’s on a construction site, at an event, or for temporary storage, the ability to load and unload independently saves the cost of hiring extra equipment.
The Benefits of Hiab Transport
Whether you’re managing one-off deliveries or regular B2B freight, Hiab trucks offer a level of control and reliability that standard transport can’t always match.
Here’s why businesses across Auckland and New Zealand choose Hiab transport:
✔ Fewer Steps, Faster Results
Hiabs eliminate the need for separate cranes or forklifts. The same truck that collects your goods can lift, position, and unload them — cutting hours off total delivery time.
✔ Safer Lifting and Fewer Risks
Every lift is done by trained operators using hydraulic precision. That means less chance of product damage, injury, or onsite incidents.
✔ Flexibility Where You Need It
Hiabs can operate in tight driveways, uneven yards, or construction zones. They’re ideal for point-to-point transport where access isn’t straightforward.
✔ Reduced Handling, Better Product Care
Especially important for pharmaceutical, food, and FMCG freight — fewer transfers mean cleaner, safer transport that protects your product’s condition and compliance.
✔ Cost-Efficient for Complex Loads
When you factor in saved labour, equipment hire, and time, Hiab transport often works out cheaper than coordinating multiple contractors.
Why Choose RPC Logistics for Hiab Truck Hire in Auckland
At RPC Logistics, Auckland Metro Transport is at the heart of what we do. Starting with one truck back in 1984, we’ve built a fleet that delivers flexibility and reliability across industries.
Our Hiab crane truck hire services are trusted by clients who value a partner that can handle both the heavy lifting and the logistics behind it.
Here’s what sets RPC apart:
- Specialised Fleet — From vans to truck-and-trailer units, tail-lifts, and Hiab cranes, our fleet is designed to fit your freight, not the other way around.
- Point-to-Point Precision — We keep your goods on the same truck from pickup to delivery, reducing handling and delays.
- Live Tracking and PODs — Our real-time updates and online reporting give you 24/7 visibility across every delivery.
- Strategic Auckland Base — Our location gives us easy access to ports, industrial zones, and key distribution routes across the region.
- Experienced Operators — Our Hiab drivers and transport specialists bring decades of on-the-ground experience.
Whether you’re moving a single container, setting up a construction site, or managing a complex delivery project, RPC Logistics provides the trucks, the people, and the systems to make it seamless.
How We Ensure Safety Throughout Our Hiab Operations
Safety is at the core of every Hiab lift we complete. Whether we’re delivering construction materials, machinery, or containers, every job is planned and executed with precision and compliance in mind.
At RPC Logistics, we maintain strict safety procedures across our Hiab operations to protect our team, our customers, and your freight.
Here’s how we do it:
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Regular Training: Our drivers and operators undergo ongoing Hiab and lifting safety training to stay current with best practices and industry standards.
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Team & Customer Meetings: We hold regular internal safety briefings and collaborative meetings with customers to align on safe operating procedures.
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Health & Safety Reviews: Mutual Health & Safety meetings can be arranged with senior management to ensure transparency and continuous improvement.
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Certified Equipment: All lifting gear and equipment are routinely inspected and certified by external auditors, ensuring everything we use meets or exceeds compliance requirements.
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Detailed Lift Plans: Every lift requires a site-specific lift plan, completed by our Hiab driver and signed off by the site manager before work begins.
Pictured here is an example of our lifting gear — each chain is tagged with a certificate of inspection, so you can be confident every lift meets certified safety standards.
Transport Solutions That Move You Forward
As a family-owned New Zealand transport company, RPC Logistics has always focused on service, safety, and relationships. For us, it’s not just about trucks — it’s about keeping your business moving.
Our Hiab transport fleet is part of a wider network that includes:
- Point-to-Point Transport
- Flat-Top and Tail-Lift Services
- Dedicated Truck Hire
- Auckland Metro and Regional Deliveries
- 3PL Warehousing and Distribution
Each solution is built around your schedule, your product, and your industry — because no two transport jobs are the same.
