Any business that needs to lift, lower, swivel or load bulky or heavy objects needs a vaccuum lift system. From stacking boxes to moving stones, from installing large pieces of glass to loading large barrels onto trucks, vacuum lifters make light work of everyday manual handling tasks.

Vacuum lift systems have found their rightful place in thousands of large and small businesses around the world. They've proven to be a smart, cost-effective investment for a number of reasons:

1. Vacuum lifting minimizes lifting-related worker injuries

2. Vacuum lift systems heighten productivity by making jobs easier and faster

3. Vacuum lifts increase profits by saving time and labor

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Determine what your vacuum lifter will lift

There are many varieties and styles of vacuum lift systems on the market today. Knowing the types of objects your vacuum lifts will be required to lift is key to deciding which vacuum lift system to purchase.

I recommend: For small and lighter loads, L.K. Goodwin Company offers a nice light-duty vacuum lifter. Palamatic Materials Handling carries a high-vacuum device that can lift more than 20 tons. Not sure what you need? Get a feel for a variety of different systems and options at Cynergy Ergonomics.

Explore your options for unique vacuum lifting needs and applications

In addition to being designed to lift by weight, some vacuum lift systems are manufactured specifically to handle objects such as glass, stone, large doors or steel plates.

I recommend: Head over to Wood's Powr-Grip Co. to see a full line of vacuum lifting systems designed exclusively for lifting and placing glass products. Need to lift some granite or stone? Check out the options at Granite City Tool. And if you have a special vacuum application not available at other vacuum lift suppliers, Anver stands ready to custom build a vacuum lifter to meet your lifting needs.

Check the availability of parts and accessories for your vacuum lift system

Before committing to a certain manufacturer of vacuum lifters, make sure that the parts and accessories you might need in the future are readily available.

I recommend: Vacutrade USA carries a nice selection of accessories for its light-duty vacuum lifts. For more heavy-duty or industrial vacuum lifting parts, Washington Crane and Hoist likely has just what you're looking for. The vacuum lift supplier you select should be able to answer any questions you have about parts and accessories for the vacuum lifter you ultimately purchase.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Be sure to inquire about warranties and service availability before purchasing a vacuum lift system. As with most anything, sticking with a supplier that you know and trust is your safest bet.
• •  If you prefer to rent or buy your vacuum lifter used, a quick internet search will yield a handful of companies that do both.