Spreader Bars & Below-the-Hook

Spreader bars: when the sling angle is the problem

A spreader bar exists to take the horizontal squeeze out of a lift. When two sling legs converge on a hook, a large part of the load turns into compression across the load itself and into extra tension in each leg. Put a bar between the pick points and the legs run near vertical: leg tension drops, the load stops being crushed, and long or slender items such as trusses, panels, machine frames and precast elements stay where they were picked.

Standard spans and custom lengths

We supply spreader bars in 36", 48", 60" and 72" spans as standard, and build to any span in between or beyond. Because a spreader bar is a below-the-hook lifting device rather than a commodity, capacity is engineered to the application: span, headroom, pick-point spacing, sling angle and duty cycle all change the design. Every span we list is quoted against the capacity you specify, not the other way around.

If your span is not on the list, the custom spreader bar page is the right starting point, tell us the span, rated capacity, end-fitting style and headroom limit, and the request goes straight into the quoting queue flagged as custom.

What to send us for a fast quote

1. Span, centre-to-centre of the pick points, not overall bar length.
2. Rated capacity required, and whether the load is centred or offset.
3. Headroom available between hook and load.
4. End fittings, shackle lugs, hook eyes, adjustable pick points, or a bail.
5. Environment, indoor, outdoor, marine, or hot work, which drives the finish.
6. Drawings, if you have them. The quote form takes file uploads.

Marking, proof testing and documentation

Below-the-hook lifting devices are supplied proof-tested with the rated load, unit weight and serial number permanently marked, and shipped with the proof-test certificate and, where the design requires it, drawings. Devices are designed and documented to the applicable ASME B30.20 / BTH-1 requirements, and the documentation supports the rating and marking obligations under Ontario's O. Reg. 213/91. Details on the Compliance page.

Buying below-the-hook equipment on a fleet program

Rental fleets and precast plants tend to buy spreader bars in small batches at irregular intervals, which is precisely when pricing drifts. Establishing a standard set of spans and capacities up front, then quoting them as a programme, takes the guesswork out. Send your current purchase history through the Cost Comparison and we will price the equivalent build, spec by spec.

Pricing

Spreader bar pricing depends on engineered capacity, so every bar is quoted. Add the span you need to a quote and we will come back with your quote with price and lead time.