6 Types of Lifting Equipment to Make Material Handling Much Easier

Lifting equipment is designed to lift large, heavy objects that would be difficult or dangerous to lift manually. From cranes to lifting slings, this essential equipment saves time, boosts workplace safety, and streamlines the material handling process. In this quick guide, we’ll show you six types of lifting equipment and how they can help your business in Staffordshire speed up productivity.

What is Lifting Equipment Used For?

If you don’t already use lifting equipment in your business, you might be wondering what it’s used for. ‘Lifting equipment is a broad term that includes dozens of different machines and accessories, and it can be used to lift almost anything, including:

• Building materials
• Pallets, bags, and sacks
• Equipment or tools
• Machinery

Different lifting tools have different weight capacities and handling processes, so it’s important to know what kind of lifting machinery is right for your needs.

What Are the Most Common Types of Lifting Equipment?

Let’s take a look at some of the most common types of lifting equipment and what it’s used for across different industries.

 1. Forklift Attachments

Adding extra functionality to a standard forklift, forklift attachments are some of the most commonly used lifting equipment in almost any industry. Attachments include clamps, hooks, and jibs, which can be used to secure heavy loads from overhead.

2. Lifting Hoists

These are designed to lift or lower heavy loads. With a motorised drum and chain, hoists are usually mounted overhead and can transport loads vertically. The most common example is an electric overhead traveling crane.

3. Overhead Cranes

Overhead cranes are most commonly used in the building industry. Unlike most types of lifting equipment, overhead cranes can move objects vertically and horizontally, meaning they can be used for a wider range of tasks.

4. Lifting Jacks and Pallet Trucks

Equipped with hydraulic lifts, lifting jacks and pallet trucks are hand-operated via a plunger. The pump then creates pressure, which lifts the platform, allowing a load to be wheeled to its destination.

5. Winches

A winch is a powered solution for moving heavy loads both vertically and horizontally. It consists of a spool of rope or wire attached to gears that allows it to be wound or unwound to pull or lift items.

6. Crane Attachments

There are hundreds of types of crane  lifting attachments depending on the size of the object you want to lift . Some of the most common crane attachments are C-hooks, swivel and safety hooks and spreader beams, 

Looking for Lifting Equipment in Staffordshire?

At AD Certified Lifting Services, we design, supply, and install all types of lifting equipment for all industries. We’re known for our overhead cranes, electric hoists, and lifting slings, and we supply a wide range of accessories to suit any load.

To speak to our team and get a free quote for your lifting equipment needs in Staffordshire, call us today: 01889 576 115