The MOST important information to consider when planning a lift is:

When planning a lift, the weight of the load is the most critical factor to consider because it directly impacts the safety and effectiveness of the lifting operation. Understanding the weight allows riggers to select appropriate rigging gear and equipment, ensuring that they are rated to handle the load without risk of failure. Additionally, knowing the load's weight helps in determining the center of gravity, which is essential for maintaining stability during the lift.

If the weight is incorrectly estimated or overlooked, it could lead to overloading equipment, which raises the risk of accidents such as cable failure or tower collapse. Therefore, prioritizing the weight of the load ensures that all other aspects of the lift can be effectively planned around a fundamental parameter that governs safety and compliance with regulations.

While factors like weather conditions, timing, and the availability of rigging gear also play significant roles in lift planning, they remain secondary to understanding the weight of the load, as all decisions ultimately hinge on this crucial piece of information.