A crane lift may not take long onsite, but the planning behind it can take weeks. Every successful pick depends on the decisions made long before the crane ever arrives on site. When the details are overlooked, delays pile up, risks increase, and crews are forced to solve problems in the most stressful moment: lift day.
Crane companies know that planning matters. Still, unexpected obstacles can appear when a lift involves tight access, complex geometry, or unverified load data. That’s why bringing rigging experts into the process early makes a real difference. At LGH, we help crane crews anticipate the challenges that can derail a lift before they happen, and supply the equipment needed to solve them.
Access is one of the first details that can cause trouble. Travel paths, obstructions, and uneven ground can limit where a crane can safely set up. Sometimes the crane can reach the jobsite, but the load can’t be maneuvered into position without specialized gear such as a center pick beam or low-headroom trolley. Identifying these limitations up front prevents costly repositioning or last-minute scrambles for rental equipment.
Even when site logistics are solid, the load itself can introduce risk. Drawings might be missing or outdated. Modifications may have shifted the center of gravity. A load may look symmetrical but lift unpredictably. Verifying weight and balance ahead of time with compression load cells or digital load links eliminates guesswork and protects equipment from overload conditions. Correct information leads to a safer, calmer lift plan.
Communication is another area that separates smooth lifts from stressful ones. Crane operators, riggers, and general contractors must all be aligned on the lift sequence, responsibilities, and any changing conditions that could affect the plan. When teams share the same information, and the same level of preparedness, crews work more efficiently and confidently.
Contingency planning is equally essential. Weather delays, equipment substitutions, or access restrictions can appear without warning. Thinking through “what if” scenarios ensures that the crew has alternatives ready. A backup modular spreader beam or additional rigging points often make the difference between a brief pause and an all-day shutdown.
When all these details are planned well, a crane lift becomes exactly what it should be: controlled, predictable, and uneventful. LGH works alongside crane companies to review the lift plan, verify load data, and recommend the right equipment to avoid surprises. Our goal is simple: give every project the highest chance of success before the crane ever leaves the yard. Every lift tells a story. With the right plan, it’s a great one.
Even the best lift plans are only as strong as the preparation behind them. Use this quick-reference checklist to confirm every critical detail before lift day and keep your crew aligned from setup to execution.
1. Review Site & Crane Setup
Check travel paths for both crane and load. Identify obstructions, soft ground, and staging limits. Confirm if special gear (low-headroom trolleys, beams, dollies, etc.) is needed.
2. Verify Load Weight & Balance
Review drawings and specs. Use load cells or digital links to confirm actual weight and center of gravity. Identify any imbalance risks early.
3. Build the Rigging Plan
Choose proper slings, shackles, and spreader beams. Check load angles, sling tensions, and hardware capacities. Add redundancy where needed.
4. Align the Team
Hold a pre-lift meeting with all parties. Review roles, communication, hand signals, and “stop work” authority.
5. Check Environment & Schedule
Monitor weather and site conditions. Confirm timing with other trades and site access.
6. Prepare Contingencies
Plan for “what-if” scenarios like weather, access, or equipment changes. Stage backup rigging and alternate lift sequences.
7. Final Safety Walkthrough
Inspect all gear and crane setup. Walk the load path to confirm clearance and escape routes. When each step is complete, your lift runs safer, smoother, and with fewer surprises.
LGH is North America’s largest single organization devoted exclusively to the provision of lifting and moving equipment for rent. LGH holds the most comprehensive inventory for hoisting, rigging, jacking, pulling, material handling, and safety equipment. With over 90,000 pieces of equipment, discover your next project solution at RentLGH.com.
