MARKET REPORT | INTERMODAL
ONE SIZE FITS ALL
Intermodal terminals require versatile handling equipment for lifting and shifting containers and other loads. DLM discovers if equipment manufacturers are on the right track to support it.
W
hile ports and quayside terminals typically have the luxury of an array of equipment, often
intermodal terminals are operating with a more restrictive range. This means an even tighter focus on flexibility, as every piece of equipment must be able to perform several tasks. “One crane needs to combine various functionalities since the size of the terminal doesn’t justify the usage of various cranes and horizontal transport equipment which is common at a deep-sea terminal,” says Arjan Meijer, sales manager for Huisman. Liebherr Maritime Cranes explains that
intermodal container handling stands apart due to its operational complexity and the need for synchronisation across multiple transport modes. “Unlike conventional cargo handling, it demands equipment that can operate efficiently within tightly choreographed logistics chains, often under space constraints and with minimal tolerance for delays,” it says.
The challenge lies not only in moving containers but in doing so with precision, consistency and compatibility across ship, rail and truck interfaces. “This requires cranes that are not only powerful but also intelligent, adaptable and easy to maintain.” Kalmar concurs that intermodal has unique needs. “The intermodal sector is unique due to its position as a critical link between maritime, rail and road transport,” says Troy Thompson, head of sales, horizontal transportation at Kalmar Americas. “This environment is characterised by intense demands for rapid turnarounds, complex operational flows and often limited physical space.”
Dynamic trends RMG manufacturer Huisman is a relatively new entrant to the intermodal market. However, Meijer sees current trends including a transition from road to rail and barge transport, requiring more intermodal hubs. In addition, existing terminals need more
Huisman develops cranes with various functionalities.
cranes to adapt to this change, while new terminals want higher specifications and more automation to ensure high productivity. For Konecranes, the intermodal market in 2025 is characterised by volatility and selective opportunities. “This is shaped by tariff uncertainty, shifting regulations, and cost pressures,” says Tobias Nilsson, sales manager, Konecranes, lift trucks. “US intermodal volumes have experienced a downturn after nearly two years of gains, reflecting growing uncertainty in freight and consumer markets, while domestic carloads have risen, suggesting a partial recovery in the industrial economy. Additionally, the market is seeing increased adoption of technology and AI to improve efficiency and resilience in intermodal operations.” Konecranes identifies key trends to include rapid automation, digitalisation and sustainability initiatives. Market drivers are the expansion of global trade, infrastructure development, and the push for decarbonisation, especially in Asia-Pacific and North America. “Major challenges include tariff volatility, geopolitical tensions, rising costs, and overcapacity risks, which are increasing operational complexity and cost pressures,” adds Nilsson. “Opportunities exist in adopting AI, IoT and real-time data solutions.” Meanwhile, Kalmar identifies three
interconnected trends. Firstly, the drive for operational efficiency, leading to increased automation. “Terminals are consistently looking for ways to increase container throughput within their existing footprint,” says Jason Murnane, key accounts manager, intermodal, Kalmar Americas. This is driven by factors like land constraints,
rising volumes, and labour availability. “Consequently, customers are seeking productive equipment and, increasingly,
vi | August 2025 |
www.hoistmagazine.com
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