There are a number of machines that can be used to lift very heavy items. Nevertheless, two of the most common ones are the hoist and the crane. Hoists and cranes have both been around in some form or fashion for hundreds and even thousands of years now. Different civilizations have come up with different ways to use hoists and cranes, but they have both played a vital role in the development of the world. These days, hoists and cranes are used most often in the shipping and construction industries, though there are many other industries, like the mining industry, that have found uses for them as well.

The Differences Between Hoists and Cranes

Hoists and cranes are not the same thing, though. They can both be used to lift large, heavy items, but they operate differently. Hoists are primarily used to lift and lower heavy loads. In shipping, hoists can be used to pick up one large pallet and place it down somewhere else. In construction, hoists are often used as a temporary elevator to transport supplies up and down inside of taller buildings.

Cranes can also be used to lift large, heavy items up and down, but they can also pick them up in other directions as well. Cranes can move loads up, down, horizontally, and even diagonally, depending on what is being picked up and where it needs to be moved. Hoists are typically simple devices that don’t require much maneuvering, while cranes are a lot more complex and, therefore, are able to do a lot more than hoists. Hoists are actually incorporated into cranes and serve as one of the many ways cranes move items around.

For more than 30 years now, Astro Crane has been helping commercial companies with all of their hoist and crane needs. If you need to rent one to complete a project, we would love to tell you more about how we can assist you. Call us at 978-429-8666 today to speak with a representative about our cranes.