LUDWIG SYSTEM GmbH

What LUDWIG SYSTEM GmbH does

LUDWIG SYSTEM GmbH & Co. KG, founded in 2008 and headquartered in Bad Reichenhall, Upper Bavaria, Germany, designs and manufactures radio-controlled load hooks and positioning systems for industrial lifting, construction, forestry, and timber construction applications. Its product portfolio comprises four core devices — the Ludwig Hook (remote-release load hook, 2.5T and 5.3T XL variants), Ludwig Choker (remote choker for forestry ropeways, 4.5T and 8.5T variants), Ludwig Bulli (special hook that opens under load, up to 10T), and Ludwig Traverse (radio-controlled leveling beam with optional rotator, 4.6T) — together with accessories such as the Ludwig Protector shock absorber. All products are developed in-house from concept to completion, combining forged and cast steel mechanical engineering with proprietary 868 MHz radio control electronics and software, with circuit boards manufactured to Ludwig's own designs by European suppliers and precision machining handled by long-time production partner BMK in shared Upper Bavarian production halls.

The company sells on a quote-based, project-driven basis, with revenue generated primarily from hardware sales plus assembly, inspection, repair, and the emerging Smart Lifting digital services layer (remote diagnostics, software updates, on-site troubleshooting). Go-to-market combines direct sales to end customers — supported by Offer, on-site, and online (Microsoft Teams) demonstration inquiry forms on every product page — with a global network of more than 30 regional dealers and distributors across Europe, North America, South America, Asia, and Oceania. The customer base spans construction and infrastructure (e.g., Vinci Construction, Vinci Energies, BAUFRITZ, Regnauer Fertigbau, de Meeuw, Annahütte), forestry (Prommegger Holzernte, Forstunternehmen Pfingstl, Fehr Braunwalder), and industrial steel handling (Benedetti Guelpa). Ludwig System is a privately held, founder-owned limited partnership led by CEO Peter Ruf, with no external institutional investors, subsidiaries, M&A activity, or public financials disclosed.

Name

LUDWIG SYSTEM GmbH

Legal name

LudwigSystem GMBH & CO KG

Website

https://ludwigsystem.com

Company type

Private

Founded year

2008

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

1–10 employees

Short description

LUDWIG SYSTEM GmbH & Co. KG is a German manufacturer of radio-controlled load hooks, chokers, and leveling beams that let crane and forestry operators release loads from a safe distance, serving construction, forestry, industrial, and timber construction customers worldwide via direct sales and a 30+ dealer network.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Industrial Lifting Equipment

NAICS

Material Handling Equipment Manufacturing (33392), Overhead Traveling Crane, Hoist, and Monorail System Manufacturing (333923)

SIC

Construction, Mining & Materials Handling Machinery & Equip (3530), Special Industry Machinery, Nec (3559), General Industrial Machinery & Equipment (3560), Special Industry Machinery (No Metalworking Machinery) (3550)

akta.pro primary industry

Lifting Accessories & Rigging (Slings, Shackles, Hooks, Spreaders) (IMAHAJAI)

akta.pro secondary industries

Lifting Attachments & Material Handling Accessories (Fork Attachments, Slings, Rigging) (IMAHABAJ), Specialized Lifting Systems (Hydraulic Gantries, Strand Jacks, Jacking Systems) (IMAHAJAO), Loading/Unloading & Transfer Equipment (Telescopic Conveyors, Loaders, Tipplers) (IMAHABAI)

Keywords

• Radio-controlled load hooks
• Remote load release systems
• Forestry lifting equipment
• Construction crane accessories
• Radio-controlled chokers

Headquarters

HQ city

Bad Reichenhall

HQ country

Germany

HQ region

Europe

Offices1 record

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Hardware or Manufacturing

Cost components

Personnel, Technology or R&D, Supply Chain, Operations, Marketing or Sales

Revenue model

1. Radio-controlled load hooks and positioning equipment sales: Ludwig System generates revenue primarily from the sale of its proprietary radio-controlled lifting products (Ludwig Hook, Ludwig Choker, Ludwig Bulli, Ludwig Traverse) and associated accessories/spare parts. Products are sold directly to end customers and through a global dealer network. Assembly, service, inspection, and repair services are also provided by the company's own employees.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion3 records

Distribution channels2 records

Marketing channels6 records

Core offering

Ludwig System designs, develops, and manufactures radio-controlled load hooks, chokers, and leveling traverses that allow crane operators to release and position heavy loads from a safe distance via remote control. Its product family — Ludwig Hook (general lifting, 2.5T and 5.3T XL variants), Ludwig Choker (forestry ropeways, Choker 64 and 69), Ludwig Bulli (open-under-load special hook, up to 10T), and Ludwig Traverse (hydraulic leveling beam, 4.6T) — is sold to construction, forestry, industrial, and timber-construction businesses worldwide through direct sales and a dealer network of more than 30 partners.

Product overview

LUDWIG SYSTEM GmbH is a German industrial equipment manufacturer specializing in radio-controlled load positioning systems. The product portfolio consists of four core radio-controlled lifting products: Ludwig Hook (load hooks for general lifting applications), Ludwig Choker (specialized choker systems for forestry ropeways), Ludwig Bulli (special load hooks that open under load), and Ludwig Traverse (radio-controlled leveling beams with hydraulic balancing and optional rotator). All products share radio control technology (868 MHz, 50M range) and enable operators to safely release loads from a distance, eliminating the need for manual intervention in dangerous zones. The Ludwig Protector is an accessory for shock absorption. Products are used across construction, logistics, forestry, and industrial applications worldwide.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• LudwigHook: Radio-controlled load hook system for lifting applications in construction, forestry, and industry
• LudwigChoker
• LudwigBulli
• LudwigTraverse

Products and services

• Ludwig Hook Radio-controlled load hook system enabling operators to release crane loads from a safe distance at the press of a button. Available in standard 2.5T (3.3 kg dead weight) and XL 5.3T (6.8 kg dead weight) variants, 50m signal range, 12V operating voltage. Used in construction, timber construction, steel processing, and industrial handling applications.
• Ludwig Choker Radio-controlled choker system for forestry cable crane/ropeway operations, enabling automated timber release from a safe distance without leaving the cabin. Available in Ludwig Choker 64 (4.5T working load, 1.8 kg, 30m range, 11–33mm cable diameter) and reinforced Ludwig Choker 69 (8.5T working load, 2.2 kg) for strong winches and demanding downhill ropes. Designed for forestry contractors using TST and other cable cranes.
• Ludwig Bulli Radio-controlled special hook capable of opening under load with up to 10 tonnes load capacity. Originally designed for snow grooming vehicles; now used in forestry as a forwarder hook (detaching from anchor trees from inside the cabin) and crash testing. Dimensions 465x180x195mm without ring, 600x180x195mm with ring; 6V operating voltage; signal range up to 300m depending on terrain.
• Ludwig Traverse Radio-controlled leveling and positioning load beam/strut for transport, handling, and assembly. Features hydraulic cylinder and pump for load balancing (transposing center of gravity) and optional hydraulic rotator for angular positioning. Working load limit 4.6T, product weight 400kg, dimensions 500x70x50cm, 50m radio range, 868 MHz frequency, 12V operating voltage.
• Ludwig Protector Shock absorption accessory designed for use with the Ludwig Hook to absorb impacts after load release. Used in applications with high-release forces such as avalanche barrier installations.

Quantifiable outcome

• Load release from safe distance eliminates dangerous manual intervention, reducing worker exposure to hazards in high-risk areas (steep terrain, unstable ground, unstable loads)
• +3 more outcomes

Named customers10 records

Segments4 records

Ideal customer profiles3 records

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Feature5 records

Partnerships

36 partnerships are on record, tiered core and minor.

• Koller Equipos ForestalescoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Choker in Chile (San Pedro de la Paz, Concepción). Contact: Jacob Sandoval. Represents Ludwig System in South American forestry market.
• Koller Forsttechnik GmbHcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Choker in Austria (Schwoich bei Kufstein). Contact: Alois Hetzenauer. Represents Ludwig System in Austrian forestry market.
• PacNWcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Choker in the United States (Montesano, WA). Contact: Keith Frafjord. Represents Ludwig System in the North American forestry market.
• Fehr Braunwalder AGcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorLong-standing sales partner in Swiss timber construction. Contact: Markus Stäuble. Multiple years of collaboration on Swiss timber construction projects. Products used include Ludwig Hook 2T for lacing loads.
• TST Seilgeräte Tröstl GmbHcoreTechnology or IntegrationAustrian rope crane manufacturer. Ludwig Choker is specifically designed for use with rope cranes, and TST rope cranes are featured in multiple Ludwig System application videos. Represents a technology integration partnership where the products are designed to work together in forestry cable crane operations.
• BMK (Production Partner)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerImportant production partner that realizes all milling and turning operations on-site in shared production halls with Ludwig System. In close cooperation with Ludwig System, BMK handles precision manufacturing operations as part of the in-house development and manufacturing process.
• MM Forsttechnik GmbHcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Choker in Austria (Frohnleiten). Contact: Christian Hirsch. Represents Ludwig System in the Austrian forestry market.
• RJ Fukes Forestry ServicesminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Choker in the United Kingdom (Carmarthenshire). Contact: Gordon Aitken.
• Seik GmbH / srlcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Hook in Italy (Truden). Contact: Florian Stürz. Represents Ludwig System in the Italian market.
• Valentini TeleferichecoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Hook in Italy (Cles, TN). Contact: Daniele Valentini. Represents Ludwig System in the Italian ropeway/ crane market.
• Sun EarthcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Hook in Japan (Yokohama, Kanagawa). Contact: Satoshi Abe. Represents Ludwig System in the Japanese market.
• von Atzigen AGcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Hook in Switzerland (Kägiswil). Contact: Willi von Atzigen. Represents Ludwig System in the Swiss market.
• ASB Automatisme Solution BoiscoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Hook in France (Praz sur Arly). Contact: Horst Reindl. Represents Ludwig System in the French market.
• Fyns Krank Udstyr A/ScoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Hook and Ludwig Traverse in Denmark (Bellinge). Contact: Steffen Olsen. Represents Ludwig System in the Danish market.
• Klaas Service- und Vertriebs GmbHcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Hook in Germany (Ascheberg). Contact: Daniel Jaron. Represents Ludwig System in the German market.
• Groeger Bauaufzüge + HebetechnikminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Hook in Germany (Fredersdorf, Vogelsdorf). Contact: Siegfried Groeger. Represents Ludwig System for construction lifting equipment in Germany.
• OTH Pioneer RiggingcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Hook in Canada (Montreal, QC). Contact: Olivier Gleize. Represents Ludwig System in the Canadian market.
• Roborigger International Pty LtdcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAustralian authorized dealer for Ludwig Hook. Contact: Derick Markwell. Co-exhibitor at Ludwig Show 2026 event. Represents Ludwig System in the Australian market.
• WoodtekcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Hook in Taiwan (Taichung City). Contact: Stan Chiao. Represents Ludwig System in the Taiwanese market.
• Sollevatec GmbHcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Hook in Italy (Schabs). Contact: Stephan Lageder. Represents Ludwig System in the Italian lifting equipment market.
• PAI Applications IndustrycoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Hook in Spain (Vilasana, Lleida). Contact: Pol. Ind. Pla d'Urgell. Represents Ludwig System in the Spanish market.
• Oy Machine Tool CominorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Hook in Finland (Helsinki). Contact: Reijo Virta. Represents Ludwig System in the Finnish market.
• Lift PolskaminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Hook in Poland (Namyslow). Contact: Piotr Trondowski. Represents Ludwig System in the Polish market.
• Inspection & Maintenance Services VOFminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Hook in the Netherlands (Emmen). Contact: Bert de Lange. Represents Ludwig System in the Dutch market.
• Groupe GodetcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Hook in France (Roissy en France). Contact: Christophe Karger. Represents Ludwig System in the French market.
• GML-TECHminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Hook in Belgium (Brecht). Contact: Michael Gysbrechts. Represents Ludwig System in the Belgian market.
• SKP NVminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Hook in Belgium (Beringen). Contact: Tom Put. Represents Ludwig System in the Belgian market.
• Traction LevageminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Hook in France (Le Blanc Mesnil). Contact: Jean-Baptiste Buchet-Bully. Represents Ludwig System in the French market.
• Austrian Ludwig System (Robert Ott)coreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer in Austria (Andrichtsfurt). Contact: Robert Ott. Represents Ludwig System in the Austrian market.
• Drone PassionminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Hook in Austria (Möllersdorf). Contact: Patrick Esser.
• Berra Marine ServiceminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Hook in France (Brest). Contact: Didier Oliviero. Marine/shipyard applications.
• CCA Chaînes Cables AccessoiresminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Hook in France (Ennery). Contact: Pierre Kinzelin.
• Casters LandtmetersminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Hook in Belgium (Antwerpen). Contact: Mark Colaes.
• Acomme srlminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Hook in France. Contact: Frédéric Weidisch.
• Klaas all-roadminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Hook in France (Nanteuil-le-Haudouin). Contact: Jérôme Delamour.
• Ludo Matériel SARLminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized dealer for Ludwig Hook in France (Franois). Contact: Nicolas Carrey.

Scale indicators2 records

Recent moves5 records

Expansion highlights5 records

Broad incumbents

• Gunnebo Industries: Swedish manufacturer of lifting equipment, chain blocks, and load securement products. Broad incumbent with global reach competing in the same end markets as Ludwig System, particularly steel and construction lifting.
• SpanSet: Swiss-based manufacturer of lifting slings, load securement, and height safety equipment. Comparable in targeting industrial lifting applications with a focus on safety — a value proposition strongly aligned with Ludwig System's remote-hook safety positioning.
• Crosby Group: Global leader in lifting accessories including hooks, shackles, and rigging hardware. While not specializing in radio-controlled release, Crosby is the dominant incumbent in the broader lifting accessories category where Ludwig Hook competes and shares the same end customers (crane operators, riggers, construction).
• Tractel Group: French-headquartered global provider of lifting, hoisting, and load-securing solutions including tirfor, chain hoists, and crane accessories. Comparable as a broad lifting equipment player with similar European industrial customer base.
• Enerpac Tool Group: US-headquartered maker of high-force tools and specialized lifting equipment for industrial applications. Comparable in serving industrial customers who need precise, high-capacity controlled lifting solutions.
• Columbus McKinnon: US manufacturer of hoists, cranes, and lifting solutions with brands like Budgit, Shaw-Box, and Yale. Comparable as a broad material handling and lifting equipment manufacturer with global distribution and similar end-user markets.
• RUD Ketten: German manufacturer of lifting chains, slings, hooks, and load securement systems. Comparable as a German-headquartered lifting accessories manufacturer serving industrial, construction, and forestry customers with overlapping product categories.
• Verlinde (verlinde.com): French manufacturer of hoists, cranes, and lifting equipment with European industrial focus. Comparable in targeting industrial lifting operators with specialized high-capacity equipment.

Emerging players

• J.D. Neuhaus: German manufacturer of air-operated hoists and crane systems for industrial applications. Comparable as a German engineering-focused specialized lifting equipment manufacturer with niche industrial product positioning.

Direct peers

• Roborigger International: Australian manufacturer of radio-controlled remote load securement and release systems for cranes. Most direct competitor in the radio-controlled load hook category, with overlap in construction, forestry, and industrial applications. Also listed as Ludwig System's Australian dealer.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat5 records

Key risks5 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• YouTubeyoutube.com/channel/UC3qQZiAC35_xl4GlFIPJ-7Q
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/ludwig-system

Compliance4 records

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles10 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about LUDWIG SYSTEM GmbH