Why Knuckleboom Cranes Are Gaining Ground in 2026
For manufacturers of knuckleboom cranes, the outlook is clear. These highly versatile machines are in greater demand. That’s because their optimal outreach, lifting capacity and precision is driving growth in a range of applications.
“The knuckleboom market is poised for steady growth in 2026, driven by infrastructure, utilities, marine and energy projects,” said Tony Hampton, director of sales, PM at Tadano Manitex. “Demand will be strongest in metropolitan areas like Northern Virginia, Atlanta and Dallas–Fort Worth, where data center and power infrastructure work is booming.”
At Iowa Mold Tooling Co. (IMT), John Field, sr. sales manager, anticipates a flatter first half of 2026 for knuckleboom sales followed by a stronger second half, especially if interest rates ease.
“Market conditions for 2026 appear favorable in several segments, particularly utility, which looks strong, and rental fleets, which are expected to remain robust,” Field said. “Building supply and housing demand should also lift replacement cycles for aging crane fleets.”
As the complexity of construction and infrastructure projects expands, so does the need for versatile and adaptable equipment, noted Greg Sneek, product manager – articulating cranes at PALFINGER North America. “Operators looking for solutions to complex lifting tasks are often turning to knuckleboom cranes,” he said. “Industries such as tree care, railway and utilities are leading adopters of knuckleboom cranes.”
Fueling Demand
The need for equipment that can operate in confined spaces and handle diverse lifting challenges is fueling demand for knuckleboom cranes in several industries.
“Knuckleboom cranes are also increasingly closing the gap with traditional telescopic cranes by offering the same lifting capabilities with added maneuverability and precision,” Sneek added. “They are a viable alternative for similar lifting applications, driving demand among operators who need equipment that performs in tight, complex spaces without compromising on capacity.”
Knuckleboom cranes excel in tight, complex spaces thanks to their articulated design, offering superior maneuverability, horizontal reach and precise load placement. Beyond those capabilities, manufacturers are investing in new designs and technologies, as well as support services.
Smart and Efficient
“At Tadano Manitex, we focus heavily on total cost of ownership,” Hampton said. “That includes providing smart, reliable machines and a strong distributor network for local support for our customers to keep fleets running efficiently.”
Sneek related as well that PALFINGER is addressing operator needs. “What matters most for knuckleboom crane operators is uptime, reach and smart controls,” he said. “Our goal is to give operators the maximum amount of control with safety and efficiency always in mind.
“Our product and service innovations focus on operator safety and satisfaction,” Sneek continued. “Combined with our dealer and service network across North America, we ensure customers have the support they need to keep their operations running smoothly.”
PALFINGER innovations, Sneek related, include tools that enhance safety and efficiency such as CONNECTED plus+, which incorporates job planning, fleet and operator monitoring and the ability to proactively manage service needs and spare parts. Other innovations for the company’s knuckleboom cranes include smart controls, such as stabilizer force limitation systems, and intelligent boundary systems that allow operators to define safe working ranges.
Knuckleboom crane manufacturers continue to develop advanced designs that deliver high power and extended reach. Whether they are called knuckleboom, articulating, picker or loader cranes, these highly engineered machines are increasingly popular for their versatility, reach, capacity and precision.
