Escalator installation: heavy lifting in tight spaces

Installing an escalator? It may sound straightforward, but in reality, it’s anything but.
Behind the metal shell lies a massive structure weighing several tons and containing sensitive components, all of which must be installed in a very limited space. Every part must line up perfectly, with no margin for error. It’s a precision job, through and through.

At Lifthing, we know exactly what such an installation involves. We replace, relocate and install escalators and moving walkways in a wide variety of environments: airports, shopping centres, railway stations and public buildings. New construction or renovation? A single unit or a full set? We make sure everything is installed smoothly, safely and on time.

From preparation to precise placement

Installing or replacing an escalator requires a comprehensive, tailor-made approach. Not just due to the size and weight of the equipment, but also because of the specific site conditions: tight access points, floor levels, limited load-bearing capacity, or night-only working hours.

That’s why every project starts with detailed planning. We visit the site, assess constraints, and develop a technical lifting plan tailored to the situation:
• Will the escalator arrive in one piece or require on-site assembly?
• Do we need heavy lifting cranes or compact pick-and-carry equipment?
• Do we need to distribute weight with air cushions because of floor carrying capacity limits?

We align this plan with your team, and when needed, with the contractor, architect and escalator manufacturer — so everyone’s on the same level.

Project in the spotlight
As part of the Paris metro network expansion, Lifthing installed a series of new escalators across multiple stations, in collaboration with several manufacturers.
The units had to transport passengers from street level down to -3, within tight deadlines and in highly complex work environments.

Planning an escalator installation?

We help you plan every technical and logistical detail from the start.

Custom logistics: transport and temporary storage

Escalators are not only heavy and long; they’re also tricky to manoeuvre, especially in urban environments. That’s why Lifthing provides not only installation, but also coordinated heavy transport and temporary storage.

Our service includes:

This integrated approach ensures every unit is ready on-site exactly when needed, even in phased installations or after last-minute changes.

Safety first, always

You don’t just “move” an escalator. These are heavy components with sensitive internals, often installed in live buildings surrounded by contractors, staff or the public. That’s why at Lifthing, safety is our highest priority.

Our teams are experienced, work with certified tools and lifting gear, communicate with all stakeholders, and follow a strict safety plan.
This ensures maximum control and minimal risk.