Gantry Systems & A-Frames

A portable gantry or A-frame lifts equipment where no overhead crane or fixed beam exists. It is usually a steel or aluminum frame with a hoist and trolley on top. Used well it is very handy. Used overloaded or on an uneven floor it can collapse.

• Maintenance
• Millwrights
• Industrial

Types

• Portable gantry: a beam supported by two legs, often on wheels, adjustable in height and span.
• A-frame: two angled legs joined at the top, used with a hoist; may need guy lines or bracing.
• Shear legs: two or three leaning legs tied at the top, usually temporary and rigged for a specific lift.

Know the rating

• Read the nameplate. It shows rated capacity, which can change with the span and height setting.
• Include the weight of the hoist, slings, hooks and lifting beams, not only the load.
• The hoist and rigging must also be rated for the load. A gantry cannot lift more than its weakest part.
• Never use a homemade gantry unless an engineer designed and approved it.

Setup

• Floor or ground is level, firm and able to carry the legs and wheels; use plates or mats on soft ground
• Legs fully extended to the height setting listed, pins and bolts installed and locked
• Wheels or casters locked or blocked before lifting
• Braces, outriggers or guy lines installed as the maker requires
• The hoist is attached at the center of the beam, and the load hangs directly under it
• No overhead obstructions or power lines. See Overhead Power Lines

Lifting and moving

• Make a lift plan. See Lift Planning.
• Lift only a few inches first and check that the gantry and load are steady.
• Avoid side-loading and swinging.
• Keep people out from under the load and out of the swing and crush zones.
• Moving a loaded gantry should be avoided unless the maker allows it; if allowed, move slowly on a smooth surface with the load low.
• Inspect before each use for cracks, bent legs, damaged welds and hoist condition.

• Do not exceed the rated capacity or lift on a slope.
• Do not use the gantry as a crane for dragging loads sideways.

Last updated: October 8, 2026