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Oct 24, 2025|Rigging

What is Rigging?

A Complete Guide to Rigging

Rigging is the process of safely securing, lifting, and transporting heavy or delicate loads. It ensures that packages and cargo are transported safely and reach their final destination without damage. If you are shipping a load that is oversized, complex, or fragile or that requires custom crates or skids, you will need rigging services. When you work with an experienced shipping and rigging company for the transportation of heavy loads, you can be assured that your equipment or other items will safely reach their final destination.

Forklift moving boxes in warehouse for industrial rigging operations

What Is Rigging Equipment?

Rigging equipment is the specialized, load-bearing equipment that is used to lift, move, and secure heavy equipment or loads, or irregularly shaped crates or packages. It is necessary when manual lifting and moving are not possible. The most common types of rigging equipment are:

  • Shackles – These are U-shaped connectors that link different rigging components together to load, lift, and move a heavy load.
  • Slings – These are large pieces of canvas or fabric that are wrapped around a load to provide a secure connection for a lifting device.
  • Ropes and Chains – Heavy-duty wire ropes and metal chains are used to connect, lift, and move loads.
  • Hooks – Industrial hooks are used to connect the lifting components and the load together.
  • Eye Bolts and Nuts – These provide a stable connection point for the attachment of rigging hardware to the load.
  • Spreader Bars – These are specialized devices that are designed to distribute the weight of an oversized or awkward load more evenly. This reduces stress on the rigging equipment and protects the stability and security of the load.
  • Hoists and Blocks – These are devices that are used along with ropes and chains to mechanically support the lifting and movement of the load.

Why You Need Commercial Rigging Services

If you are shipping or transporting a heavy, oversized, complex, or awkwardly shaped load, you need commercial rigging services. These services ensure that the process of lifting, moving, and securing the load for transit is safe, precise, and efficient. Here are some of the benefits of hiring a professional shipping and crating company for the shipment of heavy loads:

  • Maintain Safety and Compliance – There is a wide range of risks when transporting heavy loads. If they are mishandled, there might be severe injuries or even fatalities. Objects can also be damaged if they are not properly handled through each stage of the shipping process. Using a reputable rigging company reduces the risk of accidents and damage. Shipping and rigging specialists are highly trained professionals who use the proper equipment and techniques to prevent injuries and damage and ensure compliance with all regulations.
  • Utilize Specialized Equipment and Expertise – A rigging company has the tools, knowledge, and experience needed to safely and efficiently handle complex moving and shipping tasks. They can handle oversized and complex loads and ensure they are moved safely and securely through any space. They can also ensure that loads are secure throughout transit, which prevents safety hazards and damage.
  • Save Money and Time – Hiring a shipping and rigging specialist will actually save you time and money. Professionals work efficiently and minimize downtime. Proper rigging and a secure load will reduce the risk of delays. You will also avoid costly mistakes.
  • Ensure Seamless Logistics Integration – Rigging services can be seamlessly integrated into your other logistics processes. Crating and shipping companies also include custom rigging services, including custom crating for the transportation of heavy, awkwardly sized or shaped, or delicate loads. They also offer long-distance heavy haul transportation options and final placement and installation once the item reaches its destination.

Risks of Neglecting Proper Rigging for Heavy Loads

While it might be tempting to avoid the extra cost of rigging services, that decision can have severe consequences. Some of the risks of neglecting proper rigging for heavy loads include:

  • Worker injuries or fatalities
  • Dropped loads causing damage to equipment, property, and products
  • Delays or disruptions in shipping
  • Increased costs
  • Costly downtime
  • Legal liability

Call Bay Area Crating Services to Learn More About Rigging

Bay Area Crating Services offers custom, personalized shipping, crating, and rigging solutions. We have 25 years of experience in the industry and possess the knowledge, tools, and equipment needed for safe transit of large, heavy, and complex loads. Our services include commercial shipping and crating, international shipping, and heavy equipment crating. We can handle the seamless, expert shipment and delivery of high-value and delicate equipment like medical equipment, electronics, furniture, art, and more.

We also offer specialty services like on-site crating, clean room crating, anti-static packaging, and other custom crating services. We take every measure to protect your items and ensure they reach their final destination efficiently and securely. Call us now or contact us online to request an estimate for professional commercial crating and rigging services in the Bay Area.

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