Eichinger Skip Lifting Cradle

Model 2131 | 11.2 Tonne SWL | Crane Liftable | For 6 & 8 Yard Builder's Skips | CE Marked | UKCA Compliant

The Eichinger Skip Lifting Cradle (Model 2131) is a crane-liftable frame designed to ensure the safe lifting and movement of general builder's skips around site where the skips themselves do not conform to current lifting requirements. Unlike traditional methods that rely on skip lifting lugs — which may not be tested or certified — the 2131 cradles the skip from underneath, supporting it securely at the base for a controlled crane lift. Designed specifically for 6-yard and 8-yard builder's skips, the cradle has been tested to a Safe Working Load of 11.2 tonnes. The unit features a lower support beam and top spreader beam arrangement that contains and stabilises the skip throughout the lift. Every unit is fully load tested and supplied with certification.

Technical Specifications

Key Features

• Base-supported lifting — lifts the skip from underneath rather than using the skip's own lifting lugs, which may not be tested or certified
• 11.2 tonne SWL — fully tested to handle loaded 6-yard and 8-yard builder's skips
• Spreader beam arrangement — lower support beams and top spreader beam work together to contain and stabilise the skip during the lift
• Crane liftable — designed for use with a crane via a suitably rated chain sling attached to the top spreader beam
• Compliant lifting solution — provides a safe, certified method for lifting standard builder's skips that were not originally designed or certified for crane lifting
• Heavy-duty steel construction — rugged frame at 130kg built to withstand daily use on busy construction sites

Suitable Applications

The 2131 Skip Lifting Cradle is designed for construction sites where general builder's skips need to be lifted and repositioned by crane. Standard 6-yard and 8-yard builder's skips are commonly used on site for waste removal, but their lifting lugs are often untested, worn or non-compliant with LOLER requirements. The 2131 eliminates this risk by providing a certified lifting cradle that supports the skip from the base. It is particularly valuable for demolition contractors, housebuilders and civil engineering firms where skips need to be moved to different areas of site as work progresses.

How to Use the Skip Lifting Cradle

1. Position the cradle on firm, level ground and ensure the lower support beams are correctly spaced for the skip being lifted.
2. Use a forklift or crane to position the builder's skip onto the lower support beams, ensuring the skip is centred and stable.
3. Attach a suitably rated 4-leg chain sling to the top spreader beam lifting points.
4. Connect the chain sling to the crane hook. Ensure all connections are secure and the hook is latched.
5. Raise the cradle and skip slowly off the ground, checking for stability and balance.
6. Transport the load to the intended position, avoiding sudden or jolting movements.
7. Lower the cradle and skip carefully onto firm, level ground at the delivery point.
8. Disconnect the crane sling and remove the skip from the cradle using a forklift.

Warning: Never exceed the rated Safe Working Load (SWL) of 11,200kg. Always ensure the skip is correctly positioned and stable within the cradle before lifting. Use only with a suitably rated chain sling.

Certification and Compliance

This product is CE marked and supplied with a full EC Declaration of Conformity in accordance with the EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC. A UKCA certificate is also provided where required for the Great Britain market. The cradle is fully tested to the stated SWL. All lifting equipment used on UK construction sites must comply with the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) and the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER).

Safety Information

• Never exceed the rated Safe Working Load (SWL) of 11,200kg.
• Ensure the skip is correctly centred and stable on the lower support beams before lifting.
• Use only a suitably rated chain sling for crane attachment.
• Do not lift a skip by its own lugs — the 2131 cradle is designed to replace this practice.
• A risk assessment must be carried out prior to moving or using this equipment.
• Operation only by persons who are familiar with the equipment and have read the operating instructions.
• Ensure the area below and around the lift zone is clear of personnel.
• Required PPE: hard hat, safety boots, gloves, and hi-vis vest.
• The type plate must remain present and legible at all times.

Inspection and Maintenance

The skip lifting cradle must be inspected before each use and undergo a thorough examination at least every 12 months by a competent person in accordance with LOLER 1998. All inspections must be documented and any defects rectified immediately. Pay particular attention to the spreader beam, lower support beams, lifting points and all welds. Check for signs of corrosion, cracking or deformation.

Frequently Asked Questions