ESB Steers crane fleet into its next generation

ESB Kranverleih Transport u. Hebetechnik GmbH is continuing to modernise its crane fleet with the addition of a new Liebherr LTM 1055-3.3 equipped with the LICCON3 control system

The 55-tonne mobile crane is the first LICCON3 model in the Biberach-based company's fleet and has been selected to meet the demands of confined construction sites and regional lifting operations.

At the same time, ESB is preparing for its next phase of development with a generational change in its management team. Larissa Maurer, representing the third generation of the family-run business, joined the management team on 1 January 2026.

First LICCON3 crane joins ESB fleet

ESB ordered the three-axle LTM 1055-3.3 at the Bauma trade fair. Its compact dimensions, manoeuvrability and lifting performance made the crane particularly suitable for the company's operating area around Biberach and within a radius of approximately 40 kilometres.

“ In our operating area around Biberach and within a radius of around 40 kilometres, confined construction sites and limited space are daily challenges,” explains Managing Director Karl Engeser Jr. “The three-axle crane is highly manoeuvrable, quick to get to the job site as a ‘taxi crane’ and, thanks to flexible driving modes, offers maximum operational freedom – with or without a permit under Section 29, the road permits required for certain transport configurations in Germany.”

The LTM 1055-3.3 combines a compact three-axle configuration with a boom of approximately 40 metres. This enables the crane to operate effectively on urban construction sites, including applications where access is restricted and lifting operations need to take place around existing structures and obstacles.

Liebherr fleet supports regional lifting operations

The latest acquisition forms part of ESB's ongoing investment in modern lifting equipment. The company currently operates 11 Liebherr mobile cranes with lifting capacities ranging from 35 to 230 tonnes.

“We are regularly investing in our fleet so that we can offer our customers modern, high-performance technology at all times,” says Engeser. “This is the only way we can remain flexible and reliable in meeting a wide variety of requirements.”

ESB also highlighted its relationship with Liebherr and the availability of local service support as factors behind the investment.

“We benefit from the close proximity of Liebherr in Ehingen, the service works well, and we’re seeing a high level of satisfaction with the products in the region.”

The LTM 1055-3.3 entered service at the end of May and has since been used for a range of lifting operations. According to ESB, the new crane has already demonstrated its suitability for narrow access routes and uneven terrain.

“Our new 3-axle crane has been very well received by customers and stands out as a new model with modern design. It has also managed to get through easily so far, even on narrow access routes and uneven terrain,” reports Engeser.

The new 55-tonne crane replaces an older machine as part of ESB's fleet modernisation programme. The company is also planning a further fleet upgrade in the second half of the year, when an existing 130-tonne crane is scheduled to be replaced by a 150-tonne model.

“We will then replace our existing 130-tonne crane with a 150-tonne model and, at the same time, expand our fleet’s capacity range,” says Engesser.

Third generation joins ESB management

Fleet modernisation is being accompanied by a generational transition within the family-owned business. Company founder Karl Engeser Sr. has stepped back from day-to-day operations while continuing to support ESB with his experience and expertise.

Karl Engeser Jr. is responsible for the commercial side of the business, while Larissa Maurer joined the management team on 1 January 2026.

“Carrying on our family-run company into its third generation and helping to shape its future is something I am particularly proud of,” she says happily.

Founded in 1981, ESB Kranverleih Transport u. Hebetechnik GmbH currently employs 11 crane operators in addition to its management team. The company says its lean organisational structure and stable business situation provide a foundation for continued development.

“We have a lean organisational structure and are benefiting from a stable business situation,” reports Larissa Maurer, adding: “We are very satisfied and look to the future with confidence.”