Choosing the Right Lifting Equipment for Your Project
<img class="alignright wp-image-39559" src="https://www.ggrgroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/IMG-20241114-WA0006-456x342.jpg" alt="The GF250 Pick & Carry Crane assisting with a machinery installation." width="534" height="400" /> When it comes to lifting equipment, choosing the right tool for the job can make all the difference between a smooth installation and a complicated, time-consuming process. Whether you're working at height, indoors, on uneven terrain, or in restricted access areas, having the right lifting solution ensures safety, efficiency, and precision. At GGR Group, we’ve spent over 30 years leading the way in specialist lifting equipment hire and sales. Our extensive fleet is trusted by contractors, engineers, and glaziers across construction, infrastructure, rail, and industrial sectors. From heavy-duty cranes to compact floor cranes, glass vacuum lifters to overhang beams, our equipment helps lift anything, anywhere. Here’s a guide to the wide range of lifting equipment available from GGR Group, what each type is used for, and how we support lifting projects of every scale. <h2>Cranes – Diesel and Battery Powered</h2> Cranes are at the heart of many lifting operations, and GGR Group offers a wide variety to suit different project needs, from compact urban environments to challenging outdoor terrain. <h3>Mini Spider Cranes</h3> Our UNIC <a href="https://www.ggrgroup.com/products/mini-cranes/">mini spider cranes</a> are compact and powerful, making them ideal for restricted access zones such as courtyards, rooftops, and building interiors. Models like the <a href="https://www.ggrgroup.com/products/mini-cranes/urw-095/">URW-095</a> and <a href="https://www.ggrgroup.com/products/mini-cranes/urw-706/">URW-706</a> are available with both diesel and electric power options, giving flexibility for working indoors or in emission-sensitive areas. <h3>Mini Crawler Cranes</h3> We offer a growing range of <a href="https://www.ggrgroup.com/products/mini-crawler-cranes/">mini crawler cranes</a>, such as the <a href="https://www.ggrgroup.com/products/special-trailer-cranes/tmc-25-articulated-crawler-crane/">TMC 25</a> and <a href="https://www.ggrgroup.com/products/mini-crawler-cranes/mcc805/">MCC805</a>, part of our crawler crane lineup. These machines are ideal for sites with rough terrain and confined spaces. <h3>Pick and Carry Cranes</h3> Models like the <a href="https://www.ggrgroup.com/products/pick-carry-cranes/g20/">G20</a> and <a href="https://www.ggrgroup.com/products/pick-carry-cranes/mc350/">MC350</a> are ideal for lifting and transporting loads in one go. These battery-powered cranes are commonly used for glazing, plant installation, and machinery relocation.<img class="alignright wp-image-39532" src="https://www.ggrgroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/IMG-20250106-WA0004-456x342.jpg" alt="Glassmax Giraffe Floor Crane installing Overhead Glazing." width="533" height="400" /> <h3>Floor Cranes</h3> For smaller-scale indoor lifting, GGR Group’s <a href="https://www.ggrgroup.com/products/floor-cranes/">floor cranes</a> are a practical and versatile solution. These compact units are easy to move by hand and are designed for lifting in spaces where larger cranes can’t operate. We offer both manual push floor cranes and battery-powered models with lifting capacities ranging from 250kg to 900kg. With counterbalance design and telescopic jibs, they are commonly used in workshops, factories, and heritage sites to lift engines, equipment, or heavy components without overhead lifting points. <h2>Glass, Stone & Cladding Lifting Equipment</h2> Specialist materials require specialist handling, and that’s where our glass, stone, and cladding lifting equipment comes in. GGR Group has the UK’s largest fleet of vacuum lifters and has been at the forefront of glazing innovation for decades. <h3>Glass Vacuum Lifters</h3> We offer an extensive range of <a href="https://www.ggrgroup.com/products/glass-vacuum-lifters/">glass vacuum lifters</a> such as the <a href="https://www.ggrgroup.com/products/glass-vacuum-lifters/mrt4-intelligrip/">MRT4</a>, the <a href="https://www.ggrgroup.com/products/glass-vacuum-lifters/mrta8-quadra-tilt/">MRTA811</a>, and the <a href="https://www.ggrgroup.com/products/glass-vacuum-lifters/aero-cube/">Aero Cube</a>, all designed for lifting and installing glass panels of various shapes and sizes. Our range of lifters can handle capacities of up to 8500kg and are fitted with safety features like dual vacuum circuits and low-pressure alarms. <h3>Cladding Lifters</h3> With capacities ranging between 320kg and 1000kg, our selection of purpose-designed <a href="https://www.ggrgroup.com/products/cladding-lifters/">cladding lifters</a> can take on any façade or roofing task. Models like the <a href="https://www.ggrgroup.com/products/cladding-lifters/cladking-intelli-grip/">CladKing</a> or <a href="https://www.ggrgroup.com/products/cladding-lifters/mini-clad/">Miniclad</a> can manoeuvre<img class="alignright wp-image-39033" src="https://www.ggrgroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/20240918_155417-456x342.jpg" alt="MFC750 Floor Crane & P11104 Glass Vacuum Lifter lifting glass on a rooftop." width="533" height="400" /> loads with ease due to their tilting and rotating features. <h3>Stone Lifters</h3> When handling porous or textured surfaces such as granite or marble, our specialist <a href="https://www.ggrgroup.com/products/stone-lifters/">stone lifters</a> use high-performance features to lift and manoeuvre heavy stone slabs without damage. From suction technology to clamps we have a stone lifters for designed for any task. <h2>Glazing Robots</h2> For high-precision glass installation, GGR Group’s range of <a href="https://www.ggrgroup.com/products/glazing-robots/">glazing robots</a> takes manual handling out of the equation. These machines lift, transport, and position glass panels with millimetre accuracy – reducing physical strain, speeding up installation, and improving safety on site. Popular models include: - <a href="https://www.ggrgroup.com/products/glazing-robots/oscar-600-offroad/">Oscar 600 Offroad</a> – Ideal for rough terrain with a heavy lifting capacity and articulated head. - <a href="https://www.ggrgroup.com/products/glazing-robots/oscar-1000-plus/">Oscar 1000 Plus</a> – Combines high lifting height with a hydraulically powered head. - <a href="https://www.ggrgroup.com/products/glazing-robots/sky-robot-1500/">Sky Robot 1500</a> – Designed for large format glazing, capable of handling 1.5 tonnes of glass. These robots are frequently used in commercial glazing, curtain walling, and high-rise construction projects. <h2>Overhang Beams (Counterbalance Beams)</h2> When glazing or a heavy load needs to be installed beneath an overhang or cantilevered structure, <a href="https://www.ggrgroup.com/products/overhang-beams/">overhang beams</a> (also known as counterbalance beams) are the perfect solution.<img class="alignright wp-image-37449" src="https://www.ggrgroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/d1df7b54-819c-47be-b12c-bd9aec116984-copy-456x342.jpg" alt="The Libro 2500 Overhang Beam with a GL-UMC 1200 Glass Manipulator showing the versatility of overhang beams in different construction tasks." width="533" height="400" /> GGR Group offers a wide selection of overhang beams in various lengths and capacities, including our 3D Head overhang beams and standard beams which offer up to 20 tonnes of lifting power. These are commonly used for glazing under soffits, balconies, or recessed window openings where a straight vertical lift is not possible. By using adjustable counterweights, these beams shift the crane’s centre of gravity to allow safe, controlled installation without compromising balance. <h2>Spreader Bars</h2> For lifting long or fragile materials, <a href="https://www.ggrgroup.com/products/lifting-solutions/">spreader bars</a> help distribute weight evenly and prevent load deformation. They’re an essential part of any lifting operation involving beams, cladding, stone panels, or oversized glazing units. GGR Group stocks both fixed and adjustable spreader bars, designed to be used in combination with cranes, gantries, or hoists. These lifting accessories not only improve safety but also ensure precision placement of large materials. <h2>Hoists</h2> In situations where vertical access is required in confined or elevated spaces, <a href="https://www.ggrgroup.com/products/lifting-solutions/">hoists</a> are a simple and effective lifting solution. GGR Group supplies electric chain hoists, manual chain blocks, and lifting winches suitable for construction, maintenance, and installation work. Electric hoists can be used in combination with gantries or lifting beams and are perfect for moving loads vertically in tight internal spaces or on refurbishment projects with no tower crane access. <h2>Gantry Cranes</h2> <a href="https://www.ggrgroup.com/products/lifting-solutions/">Gantry cranes</a> provide a flexible, mobile lifting solution that’s ideal for use indoors or on sites without permanent lifting infrastructure. These cranes are perfect for lifting heavy items in<img class="alignright wp-image-37573" src="https://www.ggrgroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/5-456x342.jpg" alt="The UNIC URW-706 Mini Spider Crane, Libro 2500B Overhang Beam and GL-UMC 1200 Glazing Manipulator Head installing glazing in archway reveals." width="533" height="400" /> workshops, warehouses, or when installing materials between floors. At GGR Group, we supply lightweight aluminium gantry systems that can be easily transported and assembled. With options to pair them with hoists, vacuum lifters, or custom rigging, gantry cranes are a versatile choice for a wide range of lifting tasks. <h2>Why GGR Group?</h2> When you choose GGR Group, you’re getting more than just lifting equipment – you’re getting the support of a trusted team with decades of industry experience. Our services include: - Expert advice and consultation to help select the right equipment - Nationwide hire fleet available for short or long-term projects - On-site technical support and operator training - Delivery and collection from site - Sustainably powered options to meet environmental goals We’ve worked on some of the UK’s most iconic and complex lifting projects, including high-rise installations, bridge refurbishments, and even museum artefact lifts. No matter how challenging your project, we have the lifting equipment and the expertise to help. <h2>Contact Us</h2> Whether you're planning a one-off lift or need a long-term hire solution, GGR Group is here to help. Explore our full range of lifting equipment on our website or <a href="https://www.ggrgroup.com/contact-us/">get in touch</a> with our team to discuss your project requirements.
When it comes to lifting equipment, choosing the right tool for the job can make all the difference between a smooth installation and a complicated, time-consuming process. Whether you’re working at height, indoors, on uneven terrain, or in restricted access areas, having the right lifting solution ensures safety, efficiency, and precision.
At GGR Group, we’ve spent over 30 years leading the way in specialist lifting equipment hire and sales. Our extensive fleet is trusted by contractors, engineers, and glaziers across construction, infrastructure, rail, and industrial sectors. From heavy-duty cranes to compact floor cranes, glass vacuum lifters to overhang beams, our equipment helps lift anything, anywhere.
Here’s a guide to the wide range of lifting equipment available from GGR Group, what each type is used for, and how we support lifting projects of every scale.
Cranes – Diesel and Battery Powered
Cranes are at the heart of many lifting operations, and GGR Group offers a wide variety to suit different project needs, from compact urban environments to challenging outdoor terrain.Mini Spider Cranes
Our UNIC mini spider cranes are compact and powerful, making them ideal for restricted access zones such as courtyards, rooftops, and building interiors. Models like the URW-095 and URW-706 are available with both diesel and electric power options, giving flexibility for working indoors or in emission-sensitive areas.Mini Crawler Cranes
We offer a growing range of mini crawler cranes, such as the TMC 25 and MCC805, part of our crawler crane lineup. These machines are ideal for sites with rough terrain and confined spaces.Pick and Carry Cranes
Models like the G20 and MC350 are ideal for lifting and transporting loads in one go. These battery-powered cranes are commonly used for glazing, plant installation, and machinery relocation.
Floor Cranes
For smaller-scale indoor lifting, GGR Group’s floor cranes are a practical and versatile solution. These compact units are easy to move by hand and are designed for lifting in spaces where larger cranes can’t operate. We offer both manual push floor cranes and battery-powered models with lifting capacities ranging from 250kg to 900kg. With counterbalance design and telescopic jibs, they are commonly used in workshops, factories, and heritage sites to lift engines, equipment, or heavy components without overhead lifting points.Glass, Stone & Cladding Lifting Equipment
Specialist materials require specialist handling, and that’s where our glass, stone, and cladding lifting equipment comes in. GGR Group has the UK’s largest fleet of vacuum lifters and has been at the forefront of glazing innovation for decades.Glass Vacuum Lifters
We offer an extensive range of glass vacuum lifters such as the MRT4, the MRTA811, and the Aero Cube, all designed for lifting and installing glass panels of various shapes and sizes. Our range of lifters can handle capacities of up to 8500kg and are fitted with safety features like dual vacuum circuits and low-pressure alarms.Cladding Lifters
With capacities ranging between 320kg and 1000kg, our selection of purpose-designed cladding lifters can take on any façade or roofing task. Models like the CladKing or Miniclad can manoeuvre
loads with ease due to their tilting and rotating features.
Stone Lifters
When handling porous or textured surfaces such as granite or marble, our specialist stone lifters use high-performance features to lift and manoeuvre heavy stone slabs without damage. From suction technology to clamps we have a stone lifters for designed for any task.Glazing Robots
For high-precision glass installation, GGR Group’s range of glazing robots takes manual handling out of the equation. These machines lift, transport, and position glass panels with millimetre accuracy – reducing physical strain, speeding up installation, and improving safety on site. Popular models include: – Oscar 600 Offroad – Ideal for rough terrain with a heavy lifting capacity and articulated head. – Oscar 1000 Plus – Combines high lifting height with a hydraulically powered head. – Sky Robot 1500 – Designed for large format glazing, capable of handling 1.5 tonnes of glass. These robots are frequently used in commercial glazing, curtain walling, and high-rise construction projects.Overhang Beams (Counterbalance Beams)
When glazing or a heavy load needs to be installed beneath an overhang or cantilevered structure, overhang beams (also known as counterbalance beams) are the perfect solution.
GGR Group offers a wide selection of overhang beams in various lengths and capacities, including our 3D Head overhang beams and standard beams which offer up to 20 tonnes of lifting power. These are commonly used for glazing under soffits, balconies, or recessed window openings where a straight vertical lift is not possible.
By using adjustable counterweights, these beams shift the crane’s centre of gravity to allow safe, controlled installation without compromising balance.
Spreader Bars
For lifting long or fragile materials, spreader bars help distribute weight evenly and prevent load deformation. They’re an essential part of any lifting operation involving beams, cladding, stone panels, or oversized glazing units. GGR Group stocks both fixed and adjustable spreader bars, designed to be used in combination with cranes, gantries, or hoists. These lifting accessories not only improve safety but also ensure precision placement of large materials.Hoists
In situations where vertical access is required in confined or elevated spaces, hoists are a simple and effective lifting solution. GGR Group supplies electric chain hoists, manual chain blocks, and lifting winches suitable for construction, maintenance, and installation work. Electric hoists can be used in combination with gantries or lifting beams and are perfect for moving loads vertically in tight internal spaces or on refurbishment projects with no tower crane access.Gantry Cranes
Gantry cranes provide a flexible, mobile lifting solution that’s ideal for use indoors or on sites without permanent lifting infrastructure. These cranes are perfect for lifting heavy items in
workshops, warehouses, or when installing materials between floors.
At GGR Group, we supply lightweight aluminium gantry systems that can be easily transported and assembled. With options to pair them with hoists, vacuum lifters, or custom rigging, gantry cranes are a versatile choice for a wide range of lifting tasks.