Browse 28 ProductsSelecting the correct gantry crane is critical for safe, efficient and compliant material handling. Gantry cranes are commonly used for lifting and positioning heavy loads in manufacturing, maintenance, warehouse and fabrication environments. Beacon Industries offers a wide range of Bear Claw steel and aluminum gantry cranes designed to meet varying load capacities, mobility requirements and worksite conditions.
Use the guide below to determine the best gantry crane configuration for your application.
1. Determine Required Load Capacity
Start by identifying the maximum load weight you need to lift, including the weight of the hoist, trolley, rigging and any attachments.
Common gantry crane capacities include:
2,000 lbs.
4,000 lbs.
6,000 lbs.
8,000 lbs.
10,000 lbs.
Always select a gantry crane with a rated capacity that meets or exceeds your maximum lifting requirement and operate in accordance with applicable safety standards.
2. Choose Steel or Aluminum Construction
The operating environment and portability needs will determine the ideal material.
Steel Gantry Cranes
- Higher load capacities
- Rigid, heavy-duty construction
- Ideal for industrial production and fabrication environments
Aluminum Gantry Cranes
- Lightweight and corrosion resistant
- Easier to reposition or transport
- Ideal for maintenance, clean environments or mobile workstations
3. Fixed Height vs. Adjustable Height
Next, determine whether height flexibility is required.
- Set beam height
- Increased rigidity
- Ideal when lift height is consistent
Adjustable Height Gantry Cranes includes:
- Multiple height settings
- Greater versatility
- Ideal for variable lift heights or multi-use applications
4. Select the Proper Mobility Option
Mobility is a key differentiator when selecting a gantry crane.
Locking Caster applications include:
- Smooth movement on finished floors
- Lock in place during lifting
- Ideal for warehouses and shop floors
V-Groove Caster applications include:
- Designed for guided track systems
- Controlled, straight-line travel
- Required for moving under load (track sold separately)
Pneumatic Caster applications include:
- Designed for uneven or outdoor surfaces
- Ideal for rough floors, expansion joints, or yard use
Leveling Legs application include:
- Stationary support on uneven floors
- No rolling capability
- Ideal for fixed-position lifting
5. Kit vs. Fully Assembled Configuration
Beacon Bear Claw gantry cranes are available as:
- Knock-down kits (ship unassembled for reduced freight cost)
- Fully assembled units (where applicable)
Knock-down gantry crane kits are assembled at the job site and are ideal when shipping access or freight efficiency is a concern.
6. Consider Span and Clearance Requirements
Measure your available space and determine:
- Required span length
- Under-I-beam clearance
- Overall footprint and ceiling height
Proper sizing ensures safe operation and prevents interference with surrounding equipment or structures.
7. Hoist and Trolley Compatibility
Most gantry cranes are designed to accept a variety of:
- Manual hoists
- Electric hoists
- Trolleys
Hoists and trolleys are typically sold separately. Always verify compatibility with the selected Steel vs. Aluminum Gantry Cranes beam size and rated capacity.
| Feature | Steel Gantry Cranes | Aluminum Gantry Cranes |
| Typical Capacity Range | 2,000 – 10,000 lbs. | 2,000 – 4,000 lbs. |
| Construction | Heavy-duty welded steel | Lightweight aluminum |
| Rigidity | Maximum rigidity for heavy loads | Rigid, but lighter weight |
| Corrosion Resistance | Painted steel finish | Natural corrosion resistance |
| Portability | Moderate | High |
| Best For | Manufacturing, fabrication, production | Maintenance, clean environments, mobile workstations |
| Indoor / Outdoor Use | Primarily indoor | Indoor or light outdoor use |
| Weight | Heavier | Significantly lighter |
Need Help Selecting a Gantry Crane?
Beacon Industries is the exclusive provider of Bear Claw brand crane material handling equipment. If you need assistance selecting the right gantry crane, our team can help evaluate capacity, configuration, and application requirements to ensure a safe and effective solution.
Contact Beacon Industries at 314-487-7600 to speak with a Bear Claw Gantry Crane material handling specialist or request a quote.