A guide to hiring rigging contractors
When your project involves moving multi-tonne industrial assets, “near enough” isn’t good enough. Whether you are installing a single machine or relocating an entire production line, the rigging company you hire is the single most important factor in determining the safety, budget, and timeline of your project.
Industrial rigging is a highly specialised engineering discipline. This guide outlines the essential criteria for selecting a rigging contractor and why local expertise backed by global standards is the only way to safeguard your investment and operational continuity.
What is a rigging company?
A rigging company is a specialised industrial engineering firm that designs and executes the lifting, moving, and positioning of heavy machinery and oversized equipment. Unlike standard logistics providers, rigging contractors use mechanical engineering principles to navigate complex environments, such as confined factory floors or high-elevation sites, using specialised tools.
A professional rigging company provides a turnkey solution that includes technical site surveys, lift planning, and the engineering expertise required to ensure the structural integrity of both the load and the facility throughout the move.
For a deeper dive into technical definitions, read our complete guide to rigging services and riggers.
Market insights: the global demand for precision rigging
As manufacturers modernise facilities and transition towards automation, the demand for precision rigging has reached record levels. Below are the key metrics defining the current global landscape:
| Market Metric | Industry Data (Source) |
|---|---|
| Global Market Valuation | US$86.5 Billion (2024) |
| Projected Growth (CAGR) | 4.7% – 5.1% (2024–2030) |
| Workplace Safety Impact | 17% of non-fatal injuries involve lifting/handling |
Advancing industry standards: our SC&RA partnership
In the industrial lifting world, professional credibility is measured by a company’s involvement in elite global networks. Beck & Pollitzer is a proud member of the Specialized Carriers & Rigging Association (SC&RA). This prestigious international organisation is dedicated to advancing excellence in heavy lifting and installation. Membership in the SC&RA signifies that a contractor adheres to the highest global standards for safety, advocacy, and technical innovation.
Five critical qualities to look for in a rigging contractor
- A documented culture of safety: Safety in rigging is about more than just equipment; it is about rigorous engineering and risk mitigation. When evaluating a company, ask for its safety statistics and evidence of a “safety first” culture. At Beck & Pollitzer, we maintain a zero-incident standard, underpinned by our RoSPA Gold Award status for nine consecutive years. Every lift we perform is supported by a comprehensive Risk Assessment and Method Statement (RAMS) to ensure all hazards are identified and controlled.
- Deep sector-specific experience: A rigger who specialises in structural steel for construction may not have the expertise required for an aerospace clean-room or a high-precision pharmaceutical line. You need a partner who understands the specific sensitivities of your machinery. Beck & Pollitzer bring decades of experience across diverse sectors, ensuring that we bring sector-specific best practices to every site.
- Integrated millwright and electrical capabilities: The most common point of failure in a project is the “handover” between different contractors. The most efficient moves occur when the rigging company also provides other services. This technical synergy ensures that your machines are not just “placed,” but are precision-levelled, mechanically aligned, and electrically connected by a single, accountable team.
- Ownership of a modern, specialised fleet: Sub-contracting equipment can lead to delays and unknown maintenance standards. A premier contractor should own and maintain their own fleet. Beck & Pollitzer invests heavily in cutting-edge technology, including hydraulic gantry systems (capable of lifting to 1,000 tonnes), electric Versa-Lifts, and remote-controlled skates for millimetric precision in tight spaces.
- Comprehensive riggers’ liability insurance: Standard liability insurance often contains exclusions that leave your machinery unprotected while it is being moved. Ensure your contractor carries specific Riggers’ Liability Insurance. This coverage is essential for protecting your high-value assets against transit and lifting damage.
Client checklist: evaluating a “rigging company near me”
Before signing a contract, ensure the rigger performs a site walk-through and addresses these technical points:
- Load path analysis: Have they mapped out the exact route, including floor load capacities?
- Utility clearance: Have they identified overhead obstructions and underground voids?
- Project management: Will there be a dedicated supervisor on-site for the duration of the project?
- Downtime mitigation: How will they coordinate the move to minimise disruption to your ongoing production?
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What is the meaning of rigging in industrial moving?
In an industrial context, rigging is the process of using gear, such as slings, shackles, and hoists, in combination with heavy machinery to move large, heavy objects that cannot be handled by standard equipment.
How do I find the best rigging company near me?
Look for a company that combines a local presence with international engineering support. A local office ensures quick response times and site visits, while a global parent company provides the financial backing, insurance, and specialised equipment required for major projects.
How much does it cost to hire a rigging company?
Costs vary based on the complexity of the lift, the equipment required, and the site constraints. Most professional contractors will provide a site survey and a detailed technical quote to ensure there are no hidden costs during the execution phase.
Is rigging the same as crane hire?
No. A crane hire typically provides the machine and an operator. A rigging company provides the engineering, the lift plan, the ground crew, and all the specialised hardware required to secure and move the load safely from point A to point B.
What certifications should a rigging contractor have?
A reputable contractor should be a member of recognised industry bodies like the SC&RA and hold safety certifications such as ISO 45001 or the RoSPA Gold Award. These prove their commitment to international best practices.
Why leading plants choose Beck & Pollitzer
As a premier rigging company with over 160 years of experience, Beck & Pollitzer offers a seamless transition from machine moving and rigging to total factory relocation. Ready to start your project? Contact our expert team today for a detailed technical assessment and quote. Let us show you why we are the world’s leading rigging contractor.
