Used Equipment
By Seth Skydel
Market Update
Following a year of pricing shifts and diminishing inventory levels, used crane buyers can expect more of the same in 2026
The U. S. market for used cranes has undergone notable shifts over the past year in rising prices, tightening inventory and evolving economic conditions. For heavy equipment buyers, contractors and fleet managers balancing capital investment with project demands, understanding pricing trends, demand drivers and financing options has become crucial.
Used crane prices have trended upward in recent months— a shift from earlier 2024 volatility— driven by tight inventory levels and strong demand for well-maintained units. According to the National Equipment Finance Association( NEFA) market data as of August 2025 covering U. S. used crane inventory and price trends, asking prices increased by 4.55 % monthover-month and modestly year-over-year. Auction values also climbed in the same timeframe.
Inventory levels into late 2025, however, have remained lower than a year ago, indicating that fewer cranes are on the market even as buyers remain active. Some reports suggest that October inventory was down more than 14 % year-over-year. This pattern reflects a market where supply is tightening and demand for quality used cranes remains robust.
Inventory trends do vary by crane type. Boom truck cranes have seen a rise in available units month-to-month, though are still significantly below year-ago levels. Used lattice-boom crawler cranes and rough-terrain cranes have shown positive auction value trends, signaling continued competitive bidding when they come to market, NEFA noted.
2026 Outlook
Looking ahead into 2026, most market indicators point to continued moderate price pressure on used cranes, though with some important qualifiers:
• Infrastructure spending and commercial construction activity are expected to sustain demand for both new and used cranes.
• As new crane prices remain elevated and supply chains continue to normalize, used crane sales will benefit as buyers are less inclined to sell at lower prices.
• With no immediate signs that used crane inventory will expand rapidly, strong units with solid service histories are likely to maintain or grow in value modestly.
Because market signals vary by source and crane category, buyers and sellers considering used crane transactions in 2026 should continuously monitor metrics from both dealer listings and equipment-indexed valuation services, such as those offered by Rouse Services. The division of Ritchie Bros. aggregates auction and retail trends across crane types.
In 2025, the U. S. used crane market reflected a complex interplay of strong demand, tight inventory and rising prices, particularly for late-model and well-maintained units. As inventory stays constrained and new equipment pricing remains elevated, used crane values are expected to stay firm.
For buyers, drawing on auction-based pricing, model-specific valuation ranges and ongoing market analytics will be critical for making informed acquisition decisions as the market transitions into 2026.
18
February 2026 • www. cranehotline. com