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Lifting Chains

Chain slings for everyday lifting on site. Place pipes and manhole rings, lower kit into excavations and lift trench boxes out cleanly. We supply drop chains and 2-, 3- and 4-leg slings in heavy duty, Grade 8 chain for sale or hire. Every lifting chain comes with a current test certificate.

  • Grade 8 chain to EN 818-4
  • Test certificate with every chain
  • Competitive pricing
  • Nationwide delivery

Not sure which chain sling you need? Speak to an SEL expert and we'll talk it through.

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Common questions

How many legs does my chain sling need?
The number of legs your chain sling needs depends on the shape and lifting points of the load: single drop chains suit single eye or pin lifts, 2-leg slings suit long loads with two lifting points, 3-leg slings suit circular loads like manhole rings, and 4-leg slings suit square or 4-point loads such as trench boxes.
What safe working loads are available?
Safe working loads (SWL, also known as Working Load Limit or WLL) for our lifting chains range from 1.5 tonnes on single-leg drop chains up to 11.2 tonnes on heavy-duty 4-leg slings in standard stock. The governing SWL for any lift depends on chain diameter and leg angle, and is stamped on the ID tag fitted to the master link.
How does the sling angle of a lifting chain affect capacity?
The sling angle of a lifting chain affects capacity because as the legs spread further apart, tension in each leg increases as the chain pulls inwards as well as upwards. Between 45° and 60° from vertical, the Safe Working Load (SWL / WLL) drops by roughly one-third, and chain slings must never be used with legs spread beyond 60° from vertical.
Which end fittings are supplied?
End fittings supplied as standard with our chain slings include an oval top master link for crane hooks or excavator hitches, safety latch hooks at the bottom of each leg, and built-in shortening hooks on multi-leg slings for levelling loads. Alternative end fittings such as self-locking hooks or shackles are available on request.
What inspection documentation is provided?
Inspection documentation provided with every lifting chain includes a current test certificate and thorough examination report under LOLER regulations. Every sling supplied for sale or hire undergoes full inspection before dispatch so it is ready for immediate site use.
What does Grade 8 chain mean?
Grade 8 chain refers to high-tensile alloy steel lifting chain manufactured to EN 818-4 standards. It is the UK industry standard for chain slings, offering an optimal balance of strength, weight, and durability for construction site lifting.

Chain Sling Sale & Hire

We offer single leg chains (aka drop chains) and 2-, 3- and 4-leg slings for sale or hire with good stock availability and fast lead times. With depots in Bristol, Cardiff and London, we supply certified chain slings ready for rapid delivery nationwide. For sales prices, hire rates or technical advice, contact your nearest depot.

We can help with your next project.

Our team is friendly, knowledgeable and ready to consult. We offer no-obligation site visits, fast delivery and competitive rates. Simply fill in the form and we'll be in touch.

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