Big Bag Lifting Beams from MEILLER – Safe and Efficient Bulk Handling with Forklift or Crane

If you regularly move or store bulk materials such as granules, construction aggregates, animal feed, or recyclables in FIBCs (Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers), then a Big Bag Lifting Beam is an essential part of your material handling equipment. At MEILLER, we offer expertly engineered lifting beams for both crane and forklift operation – including our versatile BBT-200 and the forklift-optimized BBT-II. These robust steel devices ensure that even the heaviest Big Bags are lifted safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with applicable safety standards.

What Is a Big Bag Lifting Beam?

A Big Bag Lifting Beam, sometimes referred to as a lifting cross or bag spreader, is a load handling attachment designed specifically for lifting FIBCs with four lifting loops. The beam typically features a cross-shaped or H-shaped design with four load attachment points and a central suspension eye or forklift pockets. The loops of the Big Bag are hooked into the beam, allowing the load to be lifted evenly without strain on the bag seams.

Depending on the model, MEILLER lifting beams are compatible with overhead cranes, forklifts, or both. Because they are considered “machines” under the EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC, they are subject to stringent safety and design requirements – all of which MEILLER fulfills with precision engineering and meticulous quality control.

Why Use a Big Bag Lifting Beam?

Big Bags can weigh over a ton when filled – making manual or improvised handling not only inefficient but dangerous. A purpose-built lifting beam solves this challenge by enabling safe and balanced lifting with minimal risk to personnel, loads, or machinery. By preventing unbalanced loads or tearing of the Big Bag loops, our lifting beams help reduce downtime, product loss, and safety incidents.

Whether you’re working in construction, agriculture, recycling, or industrial production – a MEILLER Big Bag Lifting Beam transforms your crane or forklift into a professional-grade bulk material handler.

The MEILLER Advantage – Lifting Beams Engineered for Demanding Use

All MEILLER lifting beams are made from high-quality, industrial-grade steel and offer a combination of safety, durability, and functionality:

• High load capacity: Our BBT-200 and BBT-II models are rated for up to 2,000 kg working load limit (WLL).
• Safe loop attachment: Each of the four arms is fitted with a load hook featuring a safety latch to securely hold the Big Bag loops in place during transport.
• Gentle on materials: The hooks are designed with rounded support surfaces, which help prevent cutting or abrasion of the lifting straps.
• Crane or forklift compatibility: Depending on the model, the lifting beam can be used with crane hooks, forklift tines, or both – making your handling operations more flexible.
• Negative headroom design: All MEILLER lifting beams are engineered with negative height construction, ideal for workplaces with low ceilings or limited lifting height.
• Corrosion-resistant finish: You can choose between galvanized or RAL-painted surfaces, ensuring durability even in harsh environments.

The BBT-II: Optimized for Forklift Operation

New in the MEILLER range, the BBT-II model has been developed specifically for forklift use. Available in three variants, it allows seamless and safe bag lifting in loading bays, storage areas, or on construction sites:

• The BBT-II features integrated forklift entry pockets, enabling secure pickup and transport with standard forklift forks.
• An optional filling funnel allows precise, mess-free filling of Big Bags – a perfect solution for bulk material dosing.
• For even greater flexibility, a crane eye variant is available, making the BBT-II suitable for suspended operation as well.

Its smart design and adaptability make the BBT-II the ideal solution for operations that rely on mobile equipment rather than permanent crane infrastructure.

Available Configurations and Customization Options

MEILLER lifting beams are available in standard and custom configurations. Our engineers are happy to design tailor-made solutions to meet your unique operational needs, whether it’s a different size, load rating, or integration with specialized bag designs.

We also offer the following optional materials and finishes:

• Stainless steel versions (e.g., 1.4301 or 1.4571) for the food, chemical, or pharmaceutical industries.
• Aluminum beams for operations where low dead weight is critical.
• Custom paint finishes in your preferred RAL color for integration with company branding or color-coded workflows.

Types of Big Bag Lifting Beams

Depending on the intended application, MEILLER offers several lifting beam designs:

• Rigid beams with fixed hook spacing for standard Big Bags.
• Adjustable or telescopic beams for variable Big Bag sizes.
• Low-profile beams for limited headroom environments.
• Negative-height beams, where the load attachment points are higher than the suspension point.
• Multi-bag beams for lifting multiple Big Bags at once – increasing throughput in high-volume operations.

Compliance and Safety Standards

All MEILLER lifting beams meet the requirements of relevant European and German safety regulations, including:

• Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC
• DIN EN 13155 – Non-fixed load lifting attachments
• DGUV Regulation 100-500
• DIN EN ISO 12100 – Risk assessment principles
• VDI 3578 – Attachments for industrial trucks

Each product is delivered with a durable identification plate bearing all required data: manufacturer, WLL, serial number, year of manufacture, and the CE mark.

Proper Use and Inspection of Big Bag Lifting Beams

To ensure safety in daily use, Big Bag Lifting Beams must only be operated by trained personnel. Always ensure:

• All four bag loops are securely fastened in the safety hooks.
• The load is lifted vertically – angled lifts are not permitted.
• The center of gravity remains directly below the suspension point.
• An annual inspection is carried out by a qualified inspector, in accordance with DGUV rules.

Conclusion – The Right Lifting Beam for Your Operation

With a MEILLER Big Bag Lifting Beam, you’re investing in a robust, compliant, and practical lifting solution for heavy Big Bags. Whether you operate a crane, a forklift, or both, our lifting beams improve handling safety, speed, and operational reliability.

Looking for a custom lifting solution? Our team will gladly assist you with expert consultation and bespoke designs. Contact us today via our website, phone, or live chat.

Summary: MEILLER offers two main lifting beam models – the BBT-200 for crane-based handling and the BBT-II for forklift applications, including optional funnel and crane eye variants. Built from heavy-duty steel and equipped with safety features, these lifting devices ensure safe and efficient Big Bag transport in any industrial setting.