CLEAR communication with the crane operator is an absolute must. Be it my radio or hand signals, he has to know what YOU have in mind, and vice-versa.
Cut- I usually use a thin snap-cut aiming for 1/2" of overlap plus or minus.
Here's a biggie- find out who's providing what when it comes to rigging. I've seen alot of people hung up on crane jobs because they assumed the crane co would be bringing the right stuff for a tree job.
Know your wood weights. The crane op may likely say something like "Ok, I can pick 1200# from the angle we're at right now." So you have to know where to cut to keep under without taking a bazillion picks.
Get the biggest crane you can afford to budget that will fit at the job site. I can't think of a time I've ever wish the crane had LESS capacity. Bigger crane gives you a better safety factor and more versatility in your picks. The faster the tree is on the ground, the faster the ground crew can get to work on it, and the faster the job is done and paid.
Bidding hint: When bidding crane removals, I bid the job as so much for my company, and whatever the crane bill comes to.
Example: I bid a large maple for removal by crane. I'd say something like "$1,200 plus crane fees."
All I can think of at the moment... I'm sure there's plenty more.
