What are the two most important items when planning a tilt-up project in regards to the panels?

• A. Lightest panel and nearest pick distance
• B. Weather conditions
• C. Number of cranes
• D. The heaviest panel and farthest pick distance from the crane

Answer: (D)

In tilt-up planning, the critical factors revolve around what the crane must lift and how far it must reach. The heaviest panel establishes the minimum crane capacity and the required rigging, because you must guarantee the crane can safely handle the worst‑case load with the proper sling angles and safeguarding. The farthest pickup distance from the crane defines the lift radius, which directly affects the crane’s usable capacity at that reach, the boom length you’ll need, and the grip on the panel as it swings into place. If the crane isn’t capable at that maximum radius, the lift can become unsafe or unworkable, so these two items drive the crane selection, rigging plan, and overall lift sequence.

Weather, while important for safety, is not what determines the feasibility of the lift in terms of capacity and reach. The number of cranes is a logistics consideration, not the fundamental requirement for panel planning. Lighter panels and nearer pickups help reduce risk, but they don’t address the essential constraint that you must safely lift and place the heaviest panel from its farthest pickup point.