Oct 27, 2025
Goliath vs. Semi-Goliath Cranes: Which One to Choose?

In the construction and industrial settings, lifting heavy materials is done almost on a daily basis, including moving heavy objects from one spot to another. To do this, a special type of crane is used. There are mainly two types of cranes available for this: the goliath crane and the semi-goliath crane. Which one should you choose?
In this blog, we are going to explain the difference between them so you can decide whether to visit a goliath crane manufacturer or a semi-goliath crane manufacturer.
What is a Goliath Crane?
A goliath crane, also known as a gantry crane, is designed to lift heavy objects in open areas or large industrial spaces. It has a horizontal girder that is supported by two sturdy legs that move on rails laid at ground level. These cranes are self-supporting and are primarily used in shipyards, steel plants, power stations, and construction sites. It is crucial that you buy it from a reputed gantry crane manufacturer in India to avoid any safety hazards due to poor-quality manufacturing.
What is a Semi-Goliath Crane?
A semi-goliath crane is a variation of the goliath crane. It is designed for situations where full ground-level support is not needed. One side of the semi-goliath crane runs on a rail fixed at ground level, while the other one travels on a rail mounted on an elevated surface. Its unique design saves space and provides flexibility in smaller areas. If you're looking for efficient material handling solutions, a trusted crane manufacturer in Ahmedabad can help design and supply high-quality semi-goliath cranes tailored to your specific industrial needs.
Difference Between Goliath and Semi-Goliath Cranes
Size: Goliath cranes are larger and are supported on four legs or wheels; meanwhile, semi-goliath cranes are smaller, with one end fixed on a runway and the other one moving on wheels or rails.
Capacity: Goliath cranes can lift and move very heavy loads. Semi-goliath cranes have a lower load capacity.
Use Cases: Semi-goliath cranes are mainly used in construction sites, warehouses, and storage yards. Goliath cranes are commonly used in shipyards and large manufacturing plants.
Infrastructure: Unlike semi-goliath cranes, goliath cranes require a permanent runway infrastructure to support their weight and are also more complex to install.
Conclusion
If you require a crane for a large area and very heavy lifting is needed, then you can buy a goliath crane; otherwise, you can buy a semi-goliath crane. You can contact Ambica Engineering Co. if you need a crane for your project.