Overhead Crane Manufacturers in Thailand: Driven by Imports from China

With Thailand's continuous growth in infrastructure, manufacturing, and logistics, the demand for efficient and safe lifting equipment is on the rise. As a core solution in industrial production and warehouse handling, overhead cranes are becoming a key choice for companies aiming to boost productivity and competitiveness. If you are searching for reliable crane suppliers, this article will guide you through the characteristics of the Thai overhead crane market and available options, helping your business make well-informed decisions.

Key Industry Demands in Thailand

Ports and Logistics

Thailand's ports handle massive cargo volumes. Laem Chabang Port, for example, is one of the busiest deep-sea ports in Southeast Asia. The demand for port lifting equipment, rubber tyred container gantry cranes, and rail mounted container gantry cranes is high, with imported equipment accounting for more than 80%.

Automotive Manufacturing

Known as the “Detroit of Southeast Asia,” Thailand is a major production base for brands such as Toyota, Honda, and Mitsubishi. Overhead cranes and suspension cranes are widely used on production lines for handling components and transferring finished products.

Infrastructure and Power Projects

With the launch of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) and multiple highway and railway projects, demand for large-tonnage gantry cranes and bridge erection machines has been growing rapidly.

Construction and Prefabricated Component Industry

In recent years, Thailand's urbanization has accelerated, leading to the widespread use of precast concrete elements and large steel structures. Factories in this sector are typically equipped with overhead cranes or gantry cranes for lifting beams, slabs, and concrete components.

Thailand Overhead Crane Market Overview

Thailand's bridge crane market continues to expand alongside the country's growing manufacturing, logistics, and port operations. According to trade data, the total import value of bridge cranes reached USD 17.7 million, while exports were only USD 771,000. This shows that Thailand is highly dependent on imports to meet its industrial lifting needs.

Interestingly, 91.65% of these imports come from China, underlining China's leading role as the primary supplier of bridge cranes to the Thai market. This reliance demonstrates both the strong demand for cranes and the lack of sufficient local production capacity.

Chinese Manufacturers Dominate the Thai Market

Currently, about 92% of Thailand's overhead crane imports come from China, with Chinese suppliers nearly dominating the market. The key reasons include:

• More competitive pricing: More economical compared to products from Europe, the U.S., and Japan.
• Comprehensive product range: Covering capacities from 0.5 tons to 1,000 tons.
• High reliability: Meeting international standards with extensive export experience.
• Flexible procurement models: Options include complete crane exports or component exports combined with local assembly in Thailand.

This makes Chinese cranes the most practical and cost-effective choice for Thai customers.

Policies and Tariff Factors (China–Thailand)

Import Duties and Value-Added Tax (VAT)

• Thailand's import duties on industrial machinery and equipment (including overhead cranes) generally range from 0–10%, depending on the HS Code classification and whether preferential treatment under trade agreements applies.
• In addition to duties, a 7% Value-Added Tax (VAT) must also be paid.
• If customers import through distributors or agents, the final cost may increase further.

Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Advantages

• Both Thailand and China are members of the China–ASEAN Free Trade Area (CAFTA).
• Under this framework, import duties on most crane products can be reduced to 0% (with a FORM E certificate), which represents a major advantage for Chinese suppliers.
• In comparison, importing equipment from Europe, Japan, or the United States incurs significantly higher tariff costs.

Government Infrastructure and Development Plans

• The Thai government is actively promoting the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) initiative, which covers the development of ports, railways, airports, and industrial parks.
• These key projects directly drive demand for overhead cranes, gantry cranes, and electric hoists.
• The government also provides certain tax incentives and financial support for infrastructure and manufacturing investments, indirectly encouraging enterprises to upgrade or procure new equipment.

Tips for Choosing a Crane Supplier

In Thailand, the demand for overhead cranes is high, but due to limited local manufacturing capacity, most companies rely on imports. Therefore, choosing the right crane supplier is crucial for ensuring production efficiency and long-term return on investment. The following tips can help you make a smarter decision:

Focus on Product Quality and International Certifications

• Cranes are large-scale industrial equipment, and safety is the top priority.
• It is recommended to choose suppliers with international certifications such as ISO, CE, and SGS to ensure compliance with global standards.
• High-quality equipment not only operates more reliably but also reduces long-term maintenance costs.

Evaluate After-Sales Service Capabilities

• Many Thai customers focus mainly on price when purchasing, but in actual operation, after-sales service is equally critical.
• A reliable supplier should be able to provide installation guidance, operator training, remote technical support, spare parts supply, and even on-site engineering support when needed.
• This ensures long-term stable operation of the equipment and minimizes downtime risks.

Consider Cost-Effectiveness, Not Just Price

• The cheapest product is not necessarily the best choice.
• Businesses should take into account the total cost of ownership, including purchase cost, transportation, installation and commissioning expenses, and long-term maintenance costs.

Flexibility and Customization Capability

• Different industries have different requirements for cranes: some emphasize lifting capacity, while others need special spans or lifting heights.
• A good supplier should be able to offer tailor-made solutions based on specific customer needs, rather than just standard models.

DGCRANE's Experience and Cases in Thailand

As one of China's leading overhead crane suppliers, DGCRANE has successfully delivered crane solutions to multiple countries and regions worldwide. In the Thai market, we are able to offer:

• Flexible Payment Solutions
  DGCRANE provides a variety of international payment methods (such as L/C, T/T, and wire transfer) to meet different financial needs. The process is transparent, secure, and reliable, making cross-border transactions smooth and worry-free.
• Reliable Global Logistics
  Shipping is primarily by sea, with air freight solutions available for urgent needs. Leveraging our global logistics network, DGCRANE offers door-to-door transportation for both complete cranes and components, ensuring safe and timely delivery to the customer's site.
• On-Site Installation Support
  DGCRANE has a team of professional engineers who can be dispatched to provide on-site installation and commissioning services. This guarantees quick project start-up and truly “hassle-free installation.”
• Comprehensive After-Sales Service
  We provide long-term technical support and spare parts supply, with rapid response to customer needs and solutions to any operational issues. Whether remote guidance or on-site service, DGCRANE ensures long-term stable crane performance, giving customers complete peace of mind.
• Tailored Crane Solutions
  Based on customer working conditions, site constraints, and industry requirements, DGCRANE offers customized crane designs. From special spans and lifting heights to explosion-proof, moisture-proof, or anti-corrosion features, we deliver crane solutions precisely tailored to each project.
• Flexible Procurement Options
  DGCRANE offers multiple procurement models, including complete crane purchases, component purchases, and localized assembly. Customers can choose flexibly according to budget and application needs. Among them, the “component import + local main girder sourcing” model can save customers up to 30–35% in costs.

Overhead Crane-Cement Products Lifting & Handling Project

The crane is mainly used for lifting cement products. Considering that its operating frequency is relatively low, we recommend adopting work duty A3. This duty classification is well-suited for equipment that does not require continuous heavy-load operations, ensuring both efficiency and cost-effectiveness while maintaining reliable performance for your application.

• Type: Single Girder Overhead Crane
• Capacity:3 ton
• Span length: 15.7m
• Lifting height: 6m
• Work duty: A3
• Control mode: Remote control
• Power source: 380V/50Hz/3Ph

7 Sets of Overhead Cranes-Factory Expansion & Upgrade Project

• Type: Single Girder Overhead Crane
• Capacity: 3 ton
• Span length: 17 m
• Work duty: A3
• Control mode: Remote control
• Power source: 380V/50Hz/3Ph

30 Ton Double Girder Gantry Crane Project

• Crane type: Double girder gantry crane
• Country: Thailand
• Capacity: 30/5t
• Span: 20m
• Lifting height: 8m
• Work duty: M5
• Control mode: Remote control+Cabin control
• Power supply: 380V/50Hz/3Ph

10 Ton Cable Drum Powered Rail Transfer Cart

• Load capacity: 10 tons
• Table dimensions: 1500 × 3000 × 450 mm
• Track gauge: 1200 mm
• Trolley travel speed: 20 m/min
• Motor power: 0.8 kW × 2
• Wheel diameter: 300 mm
• Voltage: 380 V / 50 Hz / 3 Phase
• Control method: Pendant control

Conclusion

Choosing the right overhead crane supplier in Thailand is not just about price—it's about reliability, safety, and long-term value. With Thailand's heavy reliance on imports, Chinese suppliers have become the most trusted partners for local industries. As a professional crane manufacturer, DGCRANE has supported many Thai customers with high-quality overhead cranes, flexible procurement options, and reliable after-sales service.

Whether you need a standard crane solution or a customized design tailored to your site conditions, DGCRANE ensures efficient logistics, professional installation support, and long-term stability. If you are looking for a reliable partner to help your business grow, DGCRANE is ready to be your trusted overhead crane supplier in Thailand.

Contact us today to discuss your crane requirements and get a tailored solution.

Zora Zhao

Expert in Overhead Crane/Gantry Crane/Jib Crane/Crane Parts Solutions

With 10+ years of experience in the Crane Overseas Export Industry, helped 10,000+ customers with their pre-sales questions and concerns, if you have any related needs, please feel free to contact me!

WhatsApp: +86 189 3735 0200

Email: zorazhao@dgcrane.com