Planning a Hiab lift

1. Find out what the item actually weighs

Use the manufacturer’s information, a reliable weight record or information confirmed by the load owner. Include contents, packaging and attachments that will travel with it. An empty container weight will not describe the same container full of machinery. List separate items individually so the operator can understand the whole job.

The lifting equipment adds weight too. The provider will allow for the slings, chains, lifting beam or other equipment it selects. Give the item’s length, width and height as well, and send a photograph that shows its condition and surroundings.

2. Explain how far the crane must reach

The lifting radius is the horizontal distance from the crane’s centre of rotation to the load’s centre of gravity. For an initial enquiry, show where the vehicle might stand and where the load starts and finishes. The operator will establish the actual radius; measuring from the side of the truck can understate it.

Tell the business about anything the crane would need to reach over, and the required placement height. An approximate sketch and current photos help explain the arrangement. The ability to reach a position does not establish how much can be lifted there.

3. Understand what the size figures mean

A simple way to compare lifting demand is the weight in tonnes multiplied by the horizontal radius in metres. This gives a load moment in tonne-metres. For a two-tonne item, four metres gives 8 tonne-metres; eight metres gives 16; twelve metres gives 24. These examples show why moving the same item farther away can call for a more capable crane.

Those figures describe the load’s demand, not a crane recommendation. A crane sold in a matching tonne-metre class may not perform that lift: its boom, configuration, lifting gear and stability affect the actual capacity. Ask the operator to confirm the required weight at the required radius against its specific load chart.

4. Show the operator where it will work

Send photos of the access road, gate, working area and destination for the load. Mention slopes, soft surfaces, covers, underground services or excavations you know about. The vehicle needs space to work as well as room to get through the entrance. Ask whether the provider needs a site visit or further information before confirming a price.

Point out overhead wires and other obstructions early. Work near power lines requires specialist planning with the relevant people; never assume a wire is harmless because of its appearance. The operator should assess the setup and agree who will plan and manage the lift.

5. Send a short, complete enquiry

Put the key facts in one message so the operator can ask useful follow-up questions. Include the collection and delivery contacts, any fixed time window, and whether the crane is needed at one or both ends. Make clear who will release the item and who will be ready to receive it.

• Item, confirmed weight and dimensions, including contents and attachments.
• Both addresses, photos and an estimate of the required reach and height.
• Preferred date, site contacts, access arrangements and final placement.
• Any preparation, installation or internal movement being handled separately.

Before agreeing the booking

Ask the provider to confirm the vehicle and crane, the scope of the job, the people responsible and what the quotation includes. HSE guidance says lifting operations need appropriate planning by people with the necessary competence. This page helps you prepare the enquiry; the job’s lifting arrangements must be confirmed for the actual equipment, load and site.