Bandshire Expands Fleet with Two Böcker AK Truck Mounted Cranes
- Meagan Wood
- Aug 29, 2025
- 3 min read
30 Second Takeaway
UK crane rental specialist Bandshire has strengthened its lifting fleet with the delivery of two new Böcker aluminium truck mounted cranes a six-tonne AK 42 and a six-tonne AK 48. The investment enhances Bandshire’s ability to deliver fast-setup, high-reach lifting and access solutions, supporting a wide range of contract lifting and specialist projects across the UK.
Two New Böcker Truck Cranes Join Bandshire Fleet
Bandshire, the Huddersfield-based crane rental and contract lifting company, has taken delivery of two Böcker truck mounted cranes, expanding its established aluminium crane offering.
The new additions include:
Böcker AK 42 – six-tonne aluminium truck crane
Böcker AK 48 – six-tonne aluminium truck crane with work platform capability
Both units reinforce Bandshire’s focus on versatile, quick-deploy lifting solutions.
Böcker AK 42: Compact Reach and Strong Load Handling
The Böcker AK 42 is designed for efficient lifting in restricted and urban environments.
Key specifications include:
Six-tonne maximum lifting capacity
Three-section 27.5-metre main boom
Three-section 14.4-metre telescopic jib
42-metre maximum tip height
35-metre maximum radius
Six tonnes at 8.2 metres
1.5 tonnes at 24 metres height and 18 metres radius
This configuration makes the AK 42 well suited to construction, roofing, and specialist lifting tasks.
Böcker AK 48: Extended Reach and Dual-Purpose Capability
The Böcker AK 48, launched at Bauma 2022, offers extended reach and added flexibility.
Key features include:
Six-tonne maximum lifting capacity
Four-section main boom
Three-section telescopic jib
49-metre maximum tip height
40-metre maximum radius
Six tonnes at eight metres
1.5 tonnes at 27.5 metres height and 24 metres radius
In addition to crane duties, the AK 48 can be configured as a truck mounted work platform, offering:
350 kg platform capacity
Tool transport to heights of up to 45.7 metres
This dual-purpose capability allows Bandshire to combine lifting and access operations using a single machine.
Long-Standing Relationship with Böcker
Commenting on the latest investment, Ian Blacker of Bandshire said:
“Since purchasing our first AK 46 in 2018, Böcker has become a major part of our fleet, serving our customers well with its versatility and quick set-up times. Therefore, the decision to purchase two of Böcker’s latest and most innovative machines was a simple one. Furthermore, enhancing our crane fleet, which ranges from spider cranes to truck mounts and All Terrains through to 90 tonnes.”
Family-Run Crane Business with Nationwide Reach
Bandshire was founded in 1988 by Ian Blacker and today is operated alongside his sons Ben and Tom Blacker.
The company runs its operations from Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, providing:
Crane hire
Contract lifting
Specialist lifting solutions
Bandshire delivers services nationwide, supported by a diverse fleet that now includes the latest Böcker aluminium truck crane technology.
About Bandshire
Bandshire is a UK crane hire and contract lifting specialist established in 1988. Headquartered in Huddersfield, the family-run business operates a diverse fleet ranging from spider cranes and aluminium truck cranes to All Terrain cranes up to 90 tonnes, serving customers across the UK.
About Böcker Maschinenwerke
Böcker Maschinenwerke is a German manufacturer specialising in lightweight aluminium truck cranes, access platforms, and lifting solutions. Böcker cranes are widely recognised for their long reach, fast setup, and urban-friendly design.
Website: https://www.boecker.de
Frequently Asked Questions
What cranes has Bandshire taken delivery of?
A Böcker AK 42 and a Böcker AK 48, both six-tonne aluminium truck mounted cranes.
What is the maximum lifting height of the AK 48?
Up to 49 metres, with work-platform operation to 45.7 metres.
Can the AK 48 be used as a work platform?
Yes, it offers a 350 kg platform capacity when configured for access work.
Why did Bandshire choose Böcker cranes?
For their versatility, quick setup times, and proven performance since the company’s first Böcker crane purchase in 2018.
Where is Bandshire based?
In Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, with nationwide operations.
