Bob's Tree & Crane: Large-Scale Tree Removal and Heavy Equipment Services in South Carolina

What Bob's Tree & Crane does

Bob's Tree & Crane is a South Carolina-based tree service company that handles jobs requiring heavy equipment and specialized machinery. Unlike general tree trimming services, Bob's focuses on large removals, crane-assisted work, and situations where trees are too close to structures, power lines, or other obstacles for standard methods. The company operates across the state and brings equipment that allows them to take down trees in tight spaces or remove them in sections rather than felling them whole.

The company's main service is crane-assisted tree removal, which means they use a mobile crane to lower large sections of tree safely to the ground instead of dropping them. This approach protects nearby buildings, fences, pools, and landscaping. They also handle stump grinding, lot clearing, and emergency tree work after storms or damage.

Key Takeaways

• Bob's Tree & Crane uses mobile cranes to remove large trees safely in confined spaces where standard felling would risk damage to property.
• The company handles emergency storm cleanup, routine large removals, stump grinding, and land clearing across South Carolina.
• Crane-assisted removal costs more than standard tree removal but protects structures and allows work in residential areas where dropping trees is not an option.
• You can contact Bob's Tree & Crane directly for an on-site estimate, which is how most tree service companies price heavy equipment work.

When you need crane-assisted removal instead of standard tree work

A standard tree crew can fell a tree and chip the debris, and that works fine when the tree is in an open yard with nothing nearby. But when a large tree stands within 10 to 15 feet of your house, a garage, a shed, a fence, or power lines, dropping it becomes risky. A crane lets the crew control where each piece lands, lowering it to the ground rather than letting it fall.

Crane work also makes sense when the tree is diseased, dead, or leaning in a way that makes it unstable. A standard crew might have to fell it in a particular direction to keep it from falling on its own—which may not be the direction you want. A crane removes that constraint. The crew can take the tree down in sections, starting at the top, which is slower but far more precise.

Storm damage is another common reason to call. After high winds or ice, trees may be partially down, hanging over structures, or tangled with power lines. A crane can stabilize and remove them without risking further damage or injury.

How crane removal works and what it costs

The process starts with an on-site visit. A crew member or the owner will look at the tree, measure it, assess what's nearby, and determine whether a crane is necessary or whether standard removal would work. They'll also check for obstacles like power lines, underground utilities, or limited access that might affect equipment placement.

Once the crane is on-site, the operator positions it so the boom can reach the tree. The climbing arborist or crew member then secures rigging (cables and straps) to sections of the tree, starting near the top. As each section is cut, the crane operator lowers it slowly to the ground, where other crew members guide it and prepare it for chipping or hauling.

Pricing for crane work varies widely depending on tree size, location, how close it is to structures, and how long the crane needs to stay on-site. A single large tree might run several hundred to several thousand dollars. The crane itself is an expensive piece of equipment to move and operate, so most of the cost reflects that. To get an accurate price, you'll need an in-person estimate—tree service companies don't quote crane work over the phone because too many variables affect the job.

Stump grinding and land clearing

After a tree comes down, the stump remains. Bob's Tree & Crane offers stump grinding, which uses a rotating cutting wheel to chip the stump below ground level. The chips can be left as mulch or hauled away. Grinding is faster and cleaner than digging out the stump by hand, though it doesn't remove the root system entirely—roots may still sprout or decay underground over time.

For larger projects, the company also handles lot clearing—removing multiple trees, brush, and debris from a property. This is common before construction, land development, or when a property has been neglected and overgrown. Clearing work often combines tree removal, stump grinding, and hauling, and may involve heavy equipment like excavators or skid steers depending on the scope.

Emergency and storm cleanup services

After severe weather, trees may be down across driveways, on roofs, or blocking roads. Bob's Tree & Crane offers emergency response for storm damage. Because they have cranes and heavy equipment, they can handle situations that require more than a standard crew—trees tangled with power lines, trees partially down and unstable, or trees that have already damaged a structure and need careful removal to prevent further harm.

Emergency work often happens quickly, sometimes the same day or next day depending on demand and weather conditions. If you have a tree down or hanging dangerously, calling early in the morning gives you the best chance of same-day service. Have photos ready and be able to describe what's damaged or at risk.

How to contact Bob's Tree & Crane

To reach Bob's Tree & Crane, you can call or visit their location directly. They serve South Carolina and will schedule an on-site estimate at no charge. Bring photos of the tree if you have them, and be ready to describe what's nearby—the house, other structures, power lines, or anything else that affects how the tree should come down.

If you're dealing with an emergency—a tree down on your house or blocking your driveway—call and explain the situation. They may be able to fit you in quickly, especially if the damage is active or poses a safety risk. For routine removals, expect to schedule a few days to a week or two out, depending on the season and their workload.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is crane removal more expensive than regular tree removal?

Yes. A crane is a specialized piece of equipment that costs hundreds of dollars per day to operate and move. However, crane removal is often the only safe option when a tree is close to your house or other structures. The cost protects your property and the crew's safety, making it worth the investment in those situations.

Will the stump regrow after grinding?

Stump grinding removes the visible stump, but the root system remains underground. Some trees may send up new shoots from the roots over time, though this is less common with grinding than with just cutting the tree down. If regrowth becomes a problem, herbicide treatment or full root removal can help.

How quickly can Bob's Tree & Crane respond to storm damage?

Response time depends on weather, demand, and how many crews are working. After major storms, many tree services get backed up. Call as soon as possible and describe the damage—if a tree is on your house or blocking access, they'll prioritize you. Same-day service is sometimes possible, but next-day or a few days out is more typical.

Do I need to call the power company before tree removal?

If power lines are near or touching the tree, yes—call the power company first. They can de-energize the lines or mark them so the crew knows where they are. Never assume a line is safe to work around. Bob's crew will advise you if lines are a concern during the estimate.

What should I do if a tree is leaning toward my house?

Call for an estimate right away. A leaning tree can fall without warning, especially after rain or wind. Don't wait for a storm. An arborist can assess whether it's stable or at risk, and if removal is needed, crane work may be the safest option depending on the angle and proximity to your home.