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Hookloaders (Hook lifts) and Trailers with Crane

Flexibility, reach and system integration in focus

The combination of a hookloader – also referred to as a skip loader – and a crane provides a highly flexible transport and handling solution for modern agriculture, contracting and forestry. With the right design, the same trailer can be used for container exchange, tipping, lifting and precision handling – without compromising stability, safety or efficiency.

At Metsjö, hookloaders and trailers with crane are not an afterthought, but an integral part of the overall system. The trailer, crane, hydraulics and control systems are developed to work together under real operating conditions.

Different crane types – different applications

Metsjö trailers can be equipped with several types of cranes, depending on requirements, work tasks and desired flexibility.

Conventional cranes – mounted in the body

The traditional solution, where the crane rests in or on the body, is still relevant for many applications. It is often cost-effective and well suited for simpler lifting tasks where the body does not need to be exchanged or tipped during the same operation.

Hook lift with conventional crane

Z-cranes and X-cranes – maximum flexibility

Z-crane with hookloader tractor drawn

X-crane X-hiduo with hook lift tractor drawn

For more advanced applications, Metsjö offers installation of Z-cranes and X-cranes that fold forward in front of the body. This solution provides several key advantages:

  • The body can be exchanged without moving the crane

  • Tipping can be carried out without affecting the crane position

  • Shorter changeover times between different work tasks

  • Improved workflow and higher productivity

This is often the preferred choice for professional users working with multiple body types, containers or combined lifting and transport operations.

Independent crane choice – freedom for the customer

Metsjö is a crane-independent manufacturer, meaning we are not tied to any specific brand. We work with most of the leading crane manufacturers on the market, including:

  • Hiab

  • Palfinger

  • K.T.S.

  • BMF

  • FTG Moheda

  • Mowi

This gives customers full freedom to choose a crane based on reach, lifting capacity, functions and personal preferences – while Metsjö ensures optimal integration with the trailer and hydraulic system.

Large cranes require the right hydraulics

When larger cranes are installed – for example a Hiab X-HiDuo with a reach exceeding 10 metres and a lifting capacity of around 1 tonne at full extension – the demands on the hydraulic system increase significantly.

Standard tractor hydraulics typically deliver around 200 bar, which in many cases is insufficient to utilise the crane’s full capacity. To ensure maximum performance, a pressure-boosting hydraulic system capable of delivering 300 bar or more is required.

Metsjö develops and manufactures its own pressure-boosting hydraulic systems, designed for:

  • High and consistent oil flow capacity

  • Safe operation during heavy lifting

  • Full functionality in advanced cranes with multiple hydraulic functions

The result is a crane that truly delivers the reach and lifting power it is designed for – even in demanding working environments.

Manoeuvrability despite increased length and weight

A crane adds both length and weight to the vehicle combination. To maintain manoeuvrability and accessibility, Metsjö hookloaders and crane trailers are often equipped with advanced steering and axle solutions:

  • Drawbar steering, allowing up to approximately 40 degrees of steering angle

  • Hook lift with frame steering and crane. Tractor drawn

  • Steering rear axle for a tighter turning radius

  • Bogie lift (liftable front axle) for improved weight distribution, reduced tyre wear and increased manoeuvrability when running empty

These solutions ensure that even longer and heavier combinations remain easy to handle – on the farmyard, in the forest and in confined work areas.

MetaFlex – hookloaders built for crane installation

All Metsjö hookloader models can be equipped with a crane:

  • MetaFlex 45 for 4.0–4.5 metre containers

  • MetaFlex 50–65 for 5.0–6.5 metre containers

  • MetaFlex 60–75 for 6.0–8.0 metre containers

Each model is individually adapted to the selected crane, application and desired equipment level. The design takes into account loads from both lifting operations and transport, ensuring long service life and high operational reliability.

Control systems, ergonomics and stabilisers

Cranes are normally supplied with:

  • Radio remote control, providing excellent visibility and high precision during lifting

  • The option of a crane cabin on larger cranes for extended working periods or demanding weather conditions

  • Hydraulic stabiliser legs as standard, ensuring maximum stability during lifting operations

All control functions are fully integrated with the trailer’s other systems, creating a logical and user-friendly workflow.

System thinking that makes the difference

The difference between a solution that works and one that truly excels lies in the overall system.

At Metsjö, the hookloader, crane, hydraulics, axles and control systems are regarded as one integrated system – not as separate components.

This results in:

  • Higher safety

  • Better performance

  • A solution designed for both today’s and tomorrow’s requirements

Would you like to discuss which hookloader or crane-equipped trailer best suits your operation?
Contact Metsjö – we help you build the right system from the very beginning.

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