An overhead hoist for lifting is a typical type of manufacturing equipment used to lift and move heavy objects from one location to another. The control system can be wireless, attached to a long drop cable, or installed in the control room connected to the crane.

Overhead hoist for lifting have an electric or pneumatic motor that drives a loaded steel cable or heavy rope. Overhead hoist for lifting are usually placed on rails in order to move the crane to different workstations. Typically equipped with a large steel hook to carry objects, other options include scissor clips instead of hooks. When using overhead hoist for lifting to move large or heavy objects on a workbench, a person holding a rig often blows a siren or horn to warn workers of potential hazards.
On overhead hoist for lifting used to move material in factories, the hoist is often equipped with a traction motor to help the hoist move along the track. When lifting smaller objects on a rail system, the smaller hoist can often be pulled manually.
In the largest overhead hoist for lifting designs, the operator typically sits high on the floor and actually controls the movement of the crane from a control room mounted on the crane. A typical operator of overhead hoist for lifting is required to receive specialized training in crane operation before actually handling the material. In some cases for particularly difficult or fragile materials, new operators may need to practice for a period of time before they can work without direct supervision.