Determine which cable hoist is right for you There are industry standards and codes designed to help you choose the best electric cable hoist or manual cable hoist for your needs.

I recommend:  The Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA) offers a document to help choose the most economical hoist for your project. It may be downloaded for free or purchased in book form for a small price. The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) offers the codes and standards for a variety of electric hoists. These publications are also available for immediate download in PDF format or may be ordered in printed book form.

Choose the best package hoist for your needs If your weight capacity is between 500 lbs and 30 tons, your speed and lift ranges are average and you need only standard duty cycles, a package hoist may meet your needs. Most electric cable hoists and cable winch hoists are this type.

I recommend:  ACE Industries, Inc. offers a variety of electric hoists and promises next day delivery on all orders received before 2:00 pm EST. American Crane and Equipment Corporation offers larger industrial hoist packages for projects ranging from manufacturing to nuclear.

If your needs are highly specific or atypical, choose a built-up or custom cable hoist Some companies offer design and engineering services in addition to sale. Many package hoists may be customized by adding specialty parts.

I recommend:  American Crane & Hoist offers electric chain hoists and electric wire rope hoists, with optional equipment that allow hoists to be customized or built-up to your specifications. Gorbel offers an online crane hoists resource center, and custom design and engineering services.