Forklifts paired with tool changers are highly prized breakbulk assets.
breakbulk handling. “Demand for breakbulk handling equipment is increasingly driven by large project cargo, particularly in the mining sector, while wind related volumes have levelled off,” says Patrik Lundbäck, VP of sales and distribution. Beyond lifting capacity, Konecranes believes that customers are now prioritising electrification, digital fleet management and advanced safety features. Cybersecurity has also become a critical factor, especially in ports handling military or dual use cargo. “At Konecranes, cybersecurity is built into the entire delivery process, with secure, encrypted connectivity and carefully tested hardware and software to meet and exceed industry standards,” he adds. Hyster agrees with Kalmar, that
reachstackers are becoming even more highly prized for their breakbulk capabilities. “Especially when paired with tool changers that enable rapid attachment swapping,” says Ricky Hirani, global commercial product leader, big trucks and port equipment.
High-capacity forklifts with quick-disconnect carriages, coil rams or magnets extend this multipurpose capability. “This flexibility helps ports avoid over-investing in single-task equipment, particularly when cargo mixes and volumes fluctuate,” he adds. Another growing issue is noise emissions, especially for inland terminals or those near cities. “Backup alarms and container landings generate disruptive levels of sound, prompting operators in many parts of the world to explore alternatives such as white-noise backup alarms, which are still audible to pedestrians but are less intrusive to neighbouring residents,” says Hirani. In addition, soft landing spreader features use sensors to automatically slow descent as the spreader nears a container, minimising the sound of metal-on- metal contact.
Space constraints further complicate
matters, as breakbulk operations often deploy trucks into tight spaces, even into a vessel’s hull. “Configurations that offer high capacity and height in smaller footprints are increasingly valued,” says Hirani. He feels that yard density versus cargo accessibility does come with some trade-offs and may require better cargo placement planning. Stacking higher, up to five or six containers high, can free up ground space but can create accessibility issues without the proper equipment. Additionally, when stacking more than four high, the ground conditions must be addressed to prevent tipping. “If the ground conditions aren’t appropriate for higher stacking, ports might have to lay gravel, construct concrete pads or perform ground grading,” he says.
Tracking value The handling of breakbulk cargo presents unique operational challenges due to its non-
standardised nature, varied shapes and manual handling requirements. Unlike containerised freight, breakbulk cargo such as steel, large components and machinery requires precise tracking. Konecranes meets this need through CommTrac, a specialist terminal operating system (TOS) developed by its subsidiary, TBA Group. CommTrac is designed to manage non- containerised cargo and provide real-time visibility of cargo movements, inventory, and operational progress. “For breakbulk cargo specifically, this visibility is essential, as cargo is often handled in units, bundles or pallets rather than standard containers,” the company says. By improving accuracy, it can help reduce manual errors. Features such as barcode- based inventory management and mobile data capture allow terminals to track cargo precisely and record events like delays or damage. This enhances operational efficiency and supports better reporting and performance analysis. Additionally, CommTrac supports consolidation and deconsolidation processes, enabling terminals to manage complex cargo groupings while automatically capturing associated service charges. This helps maximise revenue and ensures that all billable activities are recorded.
Framing the issue While sales patterns across the market can vary depending on regional investment cycles, the underlying trend is towards larger, heavier and more complex loads, often requiring custom lift planning and specialised equipment. Ports that position themselves as project cargo or heavy lift hubs typically invest not only in crane capacity, but also in access to appropriate below the hook solutions, whether owned, rented or supplied through specialist partners.
Breakbulk handling is becoming more challenging for operators across the board.
www.hoistmagazine.com | May/June 2026 | vii
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