Lifting and rigging hire supplies the gear between the load and the lifting machine: slings, shackles, spreader bars, chain blocks, lever hoists, gantries, jacking systems and skates for moving heavy items without a crane.
All rigging gear must be rated, tagged and inspected. Working load limits change with sling angles and hitch type, so plan rigging with a qualified rigger.
Machinery moving—relocating presses, transformers or plant inside buildings—often combines jacks, skates and gantries rather than a mobile crane.
Lifting & rigging classes and sizes
The table below lists the classes of lifting and rigging gear most commonly available for hire in Australia. Exact specifications vary by make and model—confirm dimensions, weight and capacity with the supplier before booking.
| Class | Size / spec | Typical jobs |
|---|---|---|
| Chain blocks / lever hoists | 0.5–20 t | Vertical and horizontal pulling |
| Slings & shackles | Chain, wire, synthetic | Attaching loads to hooks |
| Spreader & lifting beams | Adjustable | Controlling long or awkward loads |
| Gantry crane | Portable | Workshop and machinery lifts |
| Jacks & skates | Hydraulic | Machinery moving without cranes |
How to choose the right machine
Confirm WLL and angles
Sling angle reduces capacity. Plan hitch type and angle with a rigger.
Inspect before use
Check tags, inspection dates and condition on arrival.
Match to the lift method
Crane lifts, gantries and jacking require different gear.
Protect the load
Use edge protection and soft slings on finished surfaces.
Licences, tickets and compliance
- Rigging work requires the relevant rigging (RB, RI, RA) or dogging (DG) High Risk Work Licence.
- Lifting gear must be tagged with WLL and inspected in line with AS 2550 and manufacturer requirements.
See our plant licences and tickets guide for the full list of High Risk Work Licence classes.
What drives the cost
The hire rate is only part of the total. On short hires these items often add 20–50% to the bill—ask every supplier to quote them the same way:
- Hire duration
- Inspection and certification
- Rigger labour
- Transport of heavy items
For indicative 2026 rates, see the plant hire cost guide.