What is the best way to prevent a load from swinging when it is lifted using a crane or a hoist?

• A. Center the hook over the CG of the load
• B. Use a tag line
• C. Lift slowly and smoothly
• D. Use a larger hook

Answer: (A)

The key idea is to align the lifting force with the load’s center of gravity. When the hook is directly over the CG, the vertical lifting force passes through the CG, so there’s minimal sideways moment. That balance means the load experiences little tendency to rotate or swing as it’s lifted, reducing sway from the start.

If the hook is off-center, the weight creates a lateral moment about the attachment. That moment converts vertical lift into horizontal motion, and even small misalignments or initial sway can grow into noticeable swinging as the load rises.

Tag lines can help control sway once the load is already moving, acting as extra hands on the ground to guide the load. Lifting slowly and smoothly reduces sudden jolts and inertia, which helps with control but doesn’t solve the fundamental issue of balance if the hook isn’t above the CG. A larger hook doesn’t address the balance problem and won’t inherently prevent swing.

So, aligning the hook over the load’s center of gravity best prevents swing at the source by keeping the lifting force aligned with the load’s weight distribution.