Below is a list of Lifting Hoist manufacturers from Amherst, New York. A lifting hoist is a mechanism similar to a crane used to lower, raise and relocate objects and machinery too heavy for the average person to lift. They are powered by hydraulics, an electric motor or for lighter loads, may be hand cranked. Electrical hoists are the most common because they are able to lift thousands of pounds but are still considered cost effective in comparison to hydraulic hoists.