PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT
LIFT AND SHIFT
V
ersatility is the watchword for many modern ports and terminals as they strive to be as flexible as possible.
To this end, forklift trucks, reach stackers and telehandlers remain vital tools in the box. However, their roles are undoubtedly changing. “Terminal operators need their fleets
to do more: to handle fluctuating volumes, accommodate non-standard loads and protect both goods and the equipment, all while supporting personnel safety and minimising disruption to surrounding communities,” says Ricky Hiriani, global commercial product leader, big trucks and port equipment, Hyster. “A truck purchased for one task today may be pressed into a completely different application next week, emphasising the need for specialised equipment with forks and other lifting attachments.” He cites several factors influencing this change, including containerised operations contending with stricter noise restrictions and tighter spatial footprints, especially at inland and urban-adjacent terminals. Furthermore, breakbulk volumes introduce irregular loads that require specialised, careful handling. For Konecranes, lift trucks for ports and
terminals have evolved significantly in recent years. “No longer viewed solely as material
viii | July/August 2026 |
www.hoistmagazine.com
Forklift trucks, telehandlers and reach stackers are the mobile workhorses of ports, terminals and yards. DLM looks at the latest trends in these vibrant and competitive segments.
Containerised operations must contend with stricter noise restrictions and tighter spatial footprints.
handling equipment, modern lift trucks have become connected, sustainable and productivity driven assets that play a key role in optimising terminal operations,” it says. The company sees this transformation as driven by the industry’s focus on decarbonisation and sustainability, increasing demands for productivity and cost efficiency, the adoption of digital and data-driven operations and a growing emphasis on safety across the entire logistics chain.
Varied demand
As with most port equipment, demand varies from region to region. And the industry often feels like it is in a permanent state of flux due to geopolitics. “What’s more interesting is how this uncertain environment is reinforcing customer demand for reliable, efficient and lower cost to operate equipment that genuinely drives productivity,” says Hiriani. “That’s where our investments in areas like fleet optimisation, energy efficiency, power solutions and ergonomic design for the operator come into play.” Tariffs and conflicts are driving even higher demand for flexibility. “In other areas, we see a growing focus on defence and making ports adaptable for both civil and military use,” he adds.
At Konecranes, demand from the port sector
remains generally healthy, although activity levels vary considerably between regions and markets. “Most terminal operators continue to invest in their operations, but investment decisions are being made more carefully and strategically than in previous years,” it says. “Geopolitical developments, market uncertainty and fluctuating fuel and energy costs have led some customers to delay or postpone investment decisions. However, the overall outlook remains positive, and there are several markets and regions where demand continues to be strong and investment activity remains at a high level.” While the market environment is dynamic,
Konecranes believes that opportunities remain plentiful for suppliers that can demonstrate clear value, productivity improvements and attractive total cost of ownership. Hyster also recognises that changes in global trade volumes are generating new opportunities for domestic freight corridors. It says these are trending away from the smaller, standardised 20ft and 40ft ISO containers typical of ocean freight. “Now, domestic containers may extend to 45ft or even 53ft, while some militaries deploy compact 10ft containers,” adds Hiriani. “Flat
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60 |
Page 61 |
Page 62 |
Page 63 |
Page 64 |
Page 65 |
Page 66 |
Page 67 |
Page 68 |
Page 69 |
Page 70 |
Page 71 |
Page 72 |
Page 73 |
Page 74 |
Page 75 |
Page 76 |
Page 77 |
Page 78 |
Page 79
