Lifting vs. Rigging Equipment: What’s the Difference (and What You Actually Need)?
Feb 24th 2026
Lifting & Rigging Fundamentals
“Lifting” and “rigging” get used interchangeably on job sites—but they’re not the same. This guide breaks down the difference, shows common equipment examples, and links you directly to the right product categories on Lifting.com.
Quick definition: Lifting is the powered motion that raises/lowers a load (the crane/hoist/trolley/winch). Rigging is the gear and methods used to attach, balance, and control the load (slings,…
What’s the Best Material for Rigging?
Dec 18th 2025
A practical guide to selecting slings, wire rope, and rigging hardware for safer lifts, fewer headaches, and better long-term value.
Quick answer:
There isn’t one “best” rigging material for every job. The right choice depends on the load, the lift method, the environment, and the connection points. Below is a fast, field-friendly way to pick the safest option.
Table of contents
How to choose the right rigging material
Wire rope slings: abrasion resistance & everyday…
What Are Hoists Used For?
Aug 14th 2025
In today’s industrial, construction, and healthcare sectors, hoists are indispensable for efficient and safe material handling. From lifting steel beams on-site to positioning heavy equipment in manufacturing or aiding patient transfers in hospitals, hoists reduce manual labor, enhance productivity, and ensure compliance. Most modern operations integrate hoists as a fundamental element of their workflow.
Regulatory and Safety Standards
Selecting and operating hoists must align with recogni…
What is the Difference Between Overhead and Gantry Cranes?
Jul 21st 2025
Material handling is essential across industries like manufacturing, construction, and logistics. Two common crane types—overhead and gantry—serve critical roles in lifting and transporting heavy loads, each offering unique benefits depending on their design and intended environment.
Overhead cranes are typically installed inside facilities and rely on the building’s structure for support, offering strong stability and integration with existing operations. Gantry cranes, by con…
What is a Gantry Crane?
Jul 14th 2025
A gantry crane is a critical piece of rigging equipment in modern industrial operations, offering a flexible and efficient solution for material handling. Characterized by a single or double girder structure supported by freestanding legs, gantry cranes do not require permanent overhead structures, making them ideal for temporary or space-restricted work environments.
Key Benefits of Gantry Cranes
Space Efficiency: Gantry cranes eliminate the need for permanent beams or support columns, maximiz…