Why Merlo Roto Telehandlers Are Replacing Engine Crane Rentals on Job Sites
- Stephen Baker
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
The Rise of Merlo Roto Telehandlers Over Traditional Engine Crane Rentals
On job sites across Western Canada, a quiet shift is taking place. Contractors who used to rely on traditional engine crane rentals are now turning to Merlo Roto telehandlers for their lifting needs—and it’s not hard to see why. These high-performance machines are faster, safer, and significantly more versatile.
At Westpeak Equipment, we’ve seen first-hand how Merlo Roto telehandlers are transforming job site logistics. If you're still relying on an engine crane rental, this article might just change the way you think about lifting heavy loads.
👉 Want to see how a Merlo Roto fits your next project? Contact us today
What Is an Engine Crane Rental, and Where Does It Fall Short?
Engine crane rentals have long been a staple in industries dealing with heavy machinery, especially in vehicle repair and industrial equipment maintenance. But while they get the job done, they come with some serious limitations:
Limited mobility: Engine cranes typically work in small, confined areas. They struggle on uneven terrain or large job sites.
Lack of reach: Standard engine hoists are built for vertical lifting only.
One function: Engine cranes lift—that’s it. They can’t drive, rotate, or adapt to different site demands.
Setup and safety: Cranes often require level surfaces, trained operators, and additional safety precautions.
👉 Tired of the limitations of an engine crane rental? Learn more about our fleet
Enter the Merlo Roto Telehandler: One Machine, Unlimited Possibility
Here’s what makes the Merlo Roto series such a game-changer:
1. 360° Rotating Boom
Unlike engine cranes, Merlo Roto telehandlers feature a full 360° rotating turret. That means you can place loads exactly where you want them without constantly repositioning the machine.
2. Telehandler + Crane + Work Platform
A Merlo Roto is more than a telehandler. With the right attachments, it becomes a crane, a man-lift, or even a forklift. That kind of versatility replaces multiple machines on-site.
3. Superior Reach & Height
Need to lift materials to a third-floor deck or over a structure? Merlo's telescopic boom makes it easy—and safe.
4. All-Terrain Capabilities
Engine crane rentals typically struggle with rough, sloped, or muddy job sites. Merlo telehandlers are built for this terrain, with stability and traction that engine hoists can't match.
👉 Want one machine that does it all? Request a Merlo rental today

Real-World Use Case: One Contractor, One Merlo, Zero Compromises
Let’s take a typical scenario: a home builder in Kelowna needs to lift beams, move trusses, and safely raise personnel. They could rent an engine crane—and then a separate man-lift, and maybe a forklift. Or, they could rent one Merlo Roto.
By renting from Westpeak, the builder:
Cut down on rental costs
Simplified on-site coordination
Increased safety with fewer machines moving around
Got more done, faster
👉 Ready to simplify your equipment needs? Get in touch
Comparing Costs: Engine Crane Rental vs. Merlo Roto Telehandler
Let’s break it down:
Factor | Engine Crane Rental | Merlo Roto Telehandler |
Functions | Lifting only | Lifting, rotating, extending, carrying, personnel lifting |
Terrain | Limited | All-terrain capabilities |
Operator Needed | Yes | Optional, Westpeak provides trained operators if needed |
Rental Duration | Daily/Weekly | Flexible rental terms |
Safety | Static, often limited by surface | High stability, built-in safety tech |
👉 Merlo outperforms. Ready to see it in action? Book a rental now
Q&A: Everything You Wanted to Know About Replacing Engine Crane Rentals
Can a Merlo Roto really replace my engine crane rental?
Yes. It not only replaces it—it does more, faster, safer, and with fewer machines.
Is a Merlo more expensive to rent?
Not necessarily. Because it consolidates multiple machines, the cost often works out better—especially for longer projects.
How long can I rent one from Westpeak?
We offer flexible rental terms to suit projects of all sizes.
Do I need special training to use it?
You can operate the Merlo yourself if you're certified, or we can supply a trained operator. Safety is our priority.
What if my site is hard to access?
That’s exactly where a Merlo shines. It’s built for rugged terrain and tight spots where cranes can’t go.
👉 Still have questions? Talk to the Westpeak team
Conclusion: Stop Renting Yesterday’s Equipment
Renting an engine crane may have made sense five years ago. But today’s job sites demand more flexibility, more safety, and more efficiency. Merlo Roto telehandlers deliver all three.
At Westpeak Equipment, we don’t just rent machines. We rent smarter ways to get your work done.
👉 Say goodbye to engine crane rentals. Choose Merlo from Westpeak
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