PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT


efficiency. “If you ask major ports what they want from a new reach stacker, the priorities are increasingly: maximum uptime and reliability, enhanced safety systems, connected fleet management and operational data next to flexibility and multi-use capability,” it says. “In addition, a more robust and accurate TCO


calculation is needed to remain competitive in an increasingly volatile market environment. In short, ports and terminals are moving to smarter machines.” Another growing priority is protection from cyber attacks. “Cybersecurity is a great and growing concern from many of our customers, in particular those ports handling military goods,” it adds. For Hyster, there are four major trends


asides from the drive to reduce emissions. A priority is non-standard load handling, requiring custom spreaders with adjustable twist locks or folding leg attachments. Similarly, negative lift and extended reach capabilities are often necessary for barge terminals, where trucks must reach down into barge cargo holds below the dock’s level. Elevating or sliding cabs can improve visibility in these scenarios. “Generally, there is greater interest in awareness features and add-ons, such as cameras, radar and curtain lights,” adds Hiriani. There is also a growing recognition from


terminal operators that they should use the right tool for the job. “Many ports use laden container handlers for moving empties,” says Hiriani. “By integrating a proportion of empty container handlers – often 10% to 20% of the fleet – operators can double stacking speed, cut fuel use and extend tyre life.” Similarly, leveraging mixed-use equipment such as reach stackers for some breakbulk applications can reduce the total number of container handlers required while enabling higher storage density. In addition, some ports are requesting higher capacity reach stackers, for use with heavier loads such as containerised battery energy storage systems. Furthermore, space constraints remain a challenge in many ports. “Breakbulk operations often deploy trucks into tight spaces, even into a vessel’s hull,” says Hiriani. “Containerised yards, while laid out with defined aisles, may still demand compact-wheelbase variants of big trucks for operational clearance. Configurations that offer high capacity and height in smaller footprints are increasingly valued.” Beyond that, noise is a growing issue, especially for inland terminals or those near cities. Hyster sees operators seeking alternatives to standard back-up alarms, such as white noise solutions and soft-landing spreaders to minimise impact noise when stacking containers.


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Sennebogen says telehandlers with capacities from 4t to 6t are the sweet spot.


On the forklift side, customisation and application-specific equipment are important. “Tailoring equipment for its application can elevate productivity, safety consciousness and equipment longevity compared to off-the-shelf machines,” says Hiriani. Here, attachments are highly valued on high-capacity forklifts. This can be quick-disconnect carriages, coil rams, or magnets. “This flexibility helps ports avoid over-investing in single-task equipment, particularly when cargo mixes and volumes fluctuate,” he adds. Naturally, automation and tech integration


also remain a key trend, driven by the Terminal Industry Committee (TIC 4.0) standards. These include telematics and operator assistance technologies. Port operators are looking for far more than lifting capacity when investing in new forklifts. “Their priorities increasingly focus on maximum uptime and reliability, enhanced safety features, connected fleet management, operational data, and the flexibility to handle multiple applications through a wide range of attachments,” says Konecranes. At the same time, its customers are placing greater emphasis on total cost of ownership. “In short, the industry is moving from stronger machines to smarter machines,” it adds. “Investment is increasingly focused on sustainable solutions, digital connectivity, safety and operational efficiency to maximise productivity and long-term value.” The company launched its new Generation


D reach stacker range at TOC Europe in May. Available in both diesel and fully electric versions, it offers enhanced performance, improved operator experience, advanced connectivity and increased energy efficiency.


Robust outlook Hyster feels that there is more to come from battery power. “We’ve had diesel for a hundred years and – for high-capacity equipment – electric for just a few,” says Hiriani. He sees


battery technology improving and believes that infrastructure challenges will be addressed. “With the shift to more zero-emission equipment to meet decarbonisation targets, we aim to be on that journey with the customer and to deliver the right solution for their application.” One of the most important considerations for port operations looking to electrify their equipment is infrastructure. “Can the local grid handle the energy draw of the port equipment? That’s a local answer, depending on grid stability and capacity,” he says. “You have to look at future growth, too. What other equipment are you going to be converting to electric? What are your future needs going to be?” Strategies like staggered charging or overnight


charging when grid demand is lower, can help. Hydrogen can also be an option in regions with limited electrical grid capacity, but its availability wildly differs from region to region. “Our focus is on supporting customers with the best-fit solution for their specific needs,” he adds. “The right power source for lift trucks and container handers will always depend on the specific application – its intensity, duty cycle, loads handled and infrastructure, as well as cost considerations and local regulations.” Meanwhile, Konecranes remains positive about the reach stacker market. “While demand varies between regions and some investment decisions are affected by geopolitical and economic uncertainty, the underlying market fundamentals remain strong,” it says. In the short term, Konecranes expects modest


growth, as container volume growth has slowed in many markets. “Looking further ahead, the medium-term outlook is more positive, with significant upside potential if geopolitical tensions ease and global trade conditions improve,” it adds. “Combined with ongoing fleet replacement and investments in sustainable equipment, this could support stronger growth across the reach stacker market.”


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