Relocating machinery—whether across the plant floor or across the country—is never as simple as just picking it up and setting it down.
At Industrial Movers, we’ve spent nearly four decades solving the challenges that come with machinery relocation. And if there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s this:
“The costliest part of a machine move is almost never the equipment—it’s the missteps that happen before the lift even starts.”
In this post, we’re sharing what many manufacturers wish they knew earlier—along with the hidden dangers of handling moves in-house without expert rigging support.
The Myth of the “Simple Move”
It usually starts with good intentions.
“Let’s just shift this machine down the line to make room for the new press.”
Or: “We’ve got forklifts—we’ll handle it ourselves.”
But here’s what often goes unaccounted for:
• Uneven floor loads or structural limits
• Unexpected wiring or anchoring beneath the equipment
• Misjudged center of gravity
• Missing rigging certifications
• Insurance complications from internal mishandling
These things don’t just delay a project—they can shut down production, void warranties, or even cause serious injury.
Hidden Costs of In-House Rigging
While doing it yourself may seem faster or cheaper, it rarely is. Here are the most common hidden costs:
- Extended Downtime
Time is money. If the move drags past your shutdown window, production delays can ripple downstream—missing quotas, late deliveries, and overtime hours. - Equipment Damage
Improper rigging can stress frames, damage components, or create alignment issues that aren’t immediately obvious—but can cost thousands to correct later. - Injury & Liability
OSHA doesn’t go easy on unsafe lifting. If your team isn’t certified in rigging or lift planning, any incident becomes a major liability. You may also risk insurance claim denial. - Lost Efficiency
Without strategic planning, even small moves create bottlenecks on the floor. That’s lost productivity your spreadsheet probably didn’t anticipate.
What Professional Rigging Gets You
When you partner with Industrial Movers, you’re getting more than muscle and machinery. You’re getting decades of project insight, site planning, and safety-first execution.
We bring:
• Full site assessments
• A diverse crane & rigging fleet
• Specialized planning tailored to your floor, foundation, and machinery needs
• Fast, coordinated moves that fit within plant shutdown windows
• Full insurance coverage and certified operators
It’s not just about moving—it’s about moving with purpose.
Before Your Next Move, Ask Yourself:
• Do we have a full lift plan with weight, load angles, and safe zones?
• Are we prepared for wiring, disconnection, and leveling post-move?
• Is our insurance valid for in-house moves?
• Can we afford the time lost if something goes wrong?
If the answer is “I’m not sure,” that’s your cue to call in the pros.