Bridge Crane vs Gantry Crane: Key Differences Explained

Bridge cranes and gantry cranes are both essential pieces of lifting equipment used in factories, warehouses, and construction sites. However, they differ significantly in terms of structure, installation, mobility, and ideal applications. In this article, Nybon Machinery will help you understand the differences between bridge cranes and gantry cranes—so you can make the right choice for your operations.

What Is a Bridge Crane?

A bridge crane, also known as an overhead crane, consists of a bridge beam mounted on end carriages that travel along elevated runways. It moves loads via a hoist trolley along the bridge, which can span the entire width of a building.

Common Types of Bridge Cranes

  • Single Girder Bridge Crane

  • Double Girder Bridge Crane

  • European-style Bridge Crane

  • Explosion-proof Bridge Crane

What Is a Gantry Crane?

A gantry crane is similar in function but stands on legs instead of being suspended from the ceiling. These legs typically move on floor-mounted rails or wheels, making gantry cranes more flexible in outdoor environments.

Common Types of Gantry Cranes:

  • Single Girder Gantry Crane

  • Double Girder Gantry Crane

  • Semi Gantry Crane

  • Portable Gantry Crane

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Key Differences Between Bridge Crane and Gantry Crane

Feature Bridge Crane Gantry Crane
Structure Suspended from ceiling/runways Supported by legs on the ground
Installation Site Indoors (e.g., workshop, warehouse) Indoor or outdoor
Mobility Fixed to building structure Mobile or rail-mounted
Cost Higher due to building modifications Lower if no supporting structure is needed
Space Requirement Requires strong ceiling support Freestanding; less structural dependency
Typical Use Heavy lifting indoors Construction sites, shipyards, outdoor yards

Which Crane Is Right for You?

Choosing between a bridge crane and a gantry crane depends on your application environment:

  • Choose a Bridge Crane if:

    • You have a permanent indoor facility

    • You need frequent lifting with a fixed runway system

    • You require precise positioning of loads

  • Choose a Gantry Crane if:

    • Your operations are outdoors or semi-permanent

    • You want to avoid structural modifications

    • You need mobility or easy relocation

heavy duty overhead crane
outdoor gantry crane with electric hoist

Nybon Machinery – Your Trusted Crane Supplier

At Nybon Machinery, we manufacture and export both bridge cranes and gantry cranes with customizable lifting capacities, spans, and duty grades. With a strong focus on international standards and customer-specific solutions, we offer:

  • Load capacity from 1 ton to 200 tons

  • Full technical support and OEM services

  • CE and ISO certified designs

  • Fast global shipping and installation guidance

FAQ: Overhead Crane VS Gantry Crane

What is the main difference between bridge and gantry cranes?

Bridge cranes are suspended from overhead runways, while gantry cranes are supported by freestanding legs.

Can gantry cranes be used indoors?

Yes. Gantry cranes are suitable for indoor use, especially in facilities without ceiling support for bridge cranes.

Is a bridge crane more expensive than a gantry crane?

Generally, yes—especially if you need to reinforce the building structure for runway beams.

Does Nybon provide installation support?

Yes, we offer full technical guidance and documentation for installation, plus online support for global customers.

At Nybon Machinery, we specialize in custom-engineered gantry crane systems tailored to your operational needs. With years of experience and advanced production capabilities, we ensure quality, safety, and performance in every system we deliver.

Need a Crane System?
Contact us for a free consultation and customized solution.
📧 info@nybonmachinery.com | 📞 WhatsApp: +86-15936506686

As a professional Industrial Crane Supplier, Nybon offers

  • Customizable Solutions – Available in various load capacities, speeds, and configurations to meet specific industrial requirements.
  • High-Quality Manufacturing – Built with strict quality standards to ensure durability, reliability, and long service life.
  • Low Maintenance Requirements – Engineered for minimal maintenance, reducing downtime and operational costs.
  • Gantry Cranes
heavy duty gantry cranes
  • Overhead Cranes
overhead crane nybon machinery
  • Electrci Hoist
nybon electrci hoist european standard

Get A Quote Today

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