Palfinger NZ’s nationwide support network depends on capable regional partners who understand their local industries and operating conditions. In Southland and Central Otago, Southern Crane Services provides that on the ground expertise, helping customers maintain safe and reliable crane performance.
Built on a Customer First Approach
Southern Crane Services was established in early 2021 after recognising the need for a more responsive, customer focused approach to crane servicing and repairs. Owner Michael Jackson saw firsthand how downtime and delayed repairs impacted operators and set out to build a business that prioritised both quality workmanship and turnaround times that worked for customers.
The business began as a mobile operation, with Michael servicing Palfinger cranes across Invercargill and surrounding areas from a ute and service trailer. That early focus on mobility and responsiveness quickly gained traction, allowing Southern Crane Services to grow in step with customer demand.
“Southern Crane Services was set up to give customers the service they deserved. Not only repairing their Palfinger crane to a high standard, but also within a timely manner that suited the customer.”
Regional Coverage with Local Knowledge
As the business expanded, Southern Crane Services established a fully equipped workshop in Invercargill, strengthening its ability to support customers both in house and on site. Today, the team includes two additional tradesmen and serves customers throughout Southland and Central Otago, combining workshop based repairs with fully mobile support delivered directly at the customer’s location.
Southern Crane Services now operates multiple service vehicles, each equipped to handle a wide range of crane and hydraulic tasks. Travelling to the customer remains central to how the business operates, helping minimise downtime and keep equipment where it belongs, on the job.
“We run two service utes plus a fully equipped hose van. Travelling is the key for our business. We go to the customer and service and repair their cranes wherever and whenever they need us.”
Core Capability
Southern Crane Services provides a broad range of crane and hydraulic services, with a strong focus on Palfinger equipment. The team’s capability spans routine maintenance through to more complex technical work, allowing them to support customers across a wide variety of applications.
Their services include:
- Palfinger crane servicing, repairs, and pre inspections
- Hydraulic repairs including cylinders, motors, and pump overhauls
- Fully mobile hydraulic hose repair through a dedicated hose van
- New crane builds and installation support
- Machining and weld engineering completed in house
- General hydraulic diagnostics and fault finding
- EWP major inspections
This depth of capability allows Southern Crane Services to manage jobs efficiently, often completing work without the need for third party involvement.
Experience with the Palfinger Brand
Southern Crane Services has been a Palfinger New Zealand Service Partner for five years, with Michael bringing nearly two decades of experience working with Palfinger equipment across previous roles.
“I have been associated with Palfinger through other employers for nearly 20 years.”
Technical Support and Parts Availability
Direct access to Palfinger technical support is a major advantage when servicing modern crane systems. Whether using laptop based diagnostics or speaking directly with Palfinger technical staff, having accurate information available when it is needed helps keep customer cranes lifting.
“Having access to technical support via laptop or even phone is second to none to keep customer cranes lifting.”
Parts availability also plays a key role. With strong stock holding through the Palfinger NZ warehouse, most components can be supplied overnight if Southern Crane Services does not already have parts on hand. This reduces delays and helps keep customer operations moving.
“Having a larger range of spares at the Palfinger warehouse means less downtime for customers. Parts are only overnight if we don’t have them on hand ourselves.”
What Customers Value
Customers value knowing that when Southern Crane Services arrives, the team is prepared. With OEM trained staff, the right tools, and parts on hand, work is carried out efficiently and to a consistently high standard.
“SCS core business focus is customers. Customers need to be operating to keep their customers happy and simply making money. We promise what we deliver and we do. If this means working late or weekends, we do it. Customers come first.”
Just as important is reliability. Southern Crane Services places a strong emphasis on delivering what they promise, even if that means working extended hours or weekends to meet customer requirements.
Looking Ahead
Southern Crane Services has a strong connection to the Palfinger brand and values the ongoing training and support provided through Palfinger New Zealand. Staying up to date with product developments ensures the team can continue delivering high quality service and passing that knowledge on to customers.
“What makes us committed to the Palfinger brand? Simply the product. We love the brand. The regular ongoing training is very beneficial for us and this gets passed on to the customer.”
As for the future of the partnership:
“As for the partnership, this can only keep growing. With likeminded and passionate people that love the industry and brand working together means customers getting the results they need.”