Reel Lifters and Turners for Cable and Wire Rope Reels
A full reel of cable or wire rope is heavy and awkward to handle. Reel lifters and turners are purpose-built tools for lifting a reel and turning it, so the job does not depend on improvised rigging. This collection features M&W reel lifters/turners made in the USA, with working load limits of 3,000 lbs. and 4,500 lbs.
Choose a Capacity
| Model |
Working load limit |
| M&W Reel Lifter/Turner (RLT3000) |
3,000 lbs. |
| M&W Reel Lifter/Turner (RLT4500-N) |
4,500 lbs. |
Weigh the loaded reel before you pick a lifter. The weight that counts is the reel plus everything wound on it, so a full reel can weigh far more than an empty one. Choose a working load limit that covers the whole reel. Then check the product listing and manufacturer's instructions to confirm that the lifter fits the reel dimensions you handle.
Where Reel Lifters Help
- Moving full reels of cable, wire rope, or similar material around a yard, shop, or job site
- Repositioning a reel so it can be set down, stored, or staged for use
- Reducing the awkward hand-handling that comes with big, heavy spools
Documentation
Both listings state that every unit is proof loaded individually, per OSHA requirements, and is shipped with certification paperwork. Keep those records with the equipment, and review the listing for the model you order.
Safe Handling Practices
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions for attaching the lifter and for lifting and turning a reel.
- Do not lift more than the working load limit of the lifter or of the rest of your rigging.
- Keep people clear of the reel and of the path it will travel.
- Have a qualified person plan lifts that are unusual or hard to control, and follow OSHA rules and the requirements of your site.
- Inspect the lifter before each use, and take it out of service if it is bent, cracked, worn, or missing markings.
Not Sure a Reel Lifter Is the Right Tool?
Reel lifters are one option in our material handling range. If your load is plate, see plate lifting hooks. For pallets, check pallet lifters, and for lifts with a forklift, browse forklift pocket lifters. Long or awkward loads may call for lifting beams and spreader bars.
More Lifting and Rigging Supplies
Round out the setup with high performance roundslings, wire rope slings, rigging hooks, or shackles. Need to protect people or material? See safety nets. Working with a crane or other heavy equipment on soft ground? Look at outrigger pads. For everything else, browse rigging supplies and hardware.
Reel Lifter FAQs
What do reel lifters do?
They are lifting devices made for handling reels of cable, wire rope, and similar material.
Are these reel lifters made in the USA?
Yes. Both M&W models in this collection are made in the USA.
Do they come with certification?
Per the listings, yes. Each unit is proof loaded on its own and is accompanied by certification paperwork.
How do I choose between the 3,000 lb. and 4,500 lb. models?
Go by the weight of your heaviest loaded reel, then choose the rating that covers it. Confirm reel size compatibility in the listing and with the manufacturer's instructions.
Can I use a reel lifter to lift people?
No. Reel lifters are for handling reels only.
Need Help Choosing?
Unsure whether a reel lifter fits your reels and your lifting setup? Our Product Experts are glad to talk it through before you order.
