Port Technology

Warehouse Distribution Equipment

When moving product in and around warehouses, the challenges are many — involving everything from maneuvering in narrow aisles to precision placement of bulky and/or heavy containers. The following companies offer a selection of trucks and tractors to take care of your material-handling applications.

COMPANY: Cascade Corp.

PRODUCT: Cascade’s Single-Double Pallet Handler

FUNCTION: Designed for any application using pallets or containers to load trucks, containers, rail cars and flatbed trucks. The single-double pallet handler allows single pallet handling without protrusion outside the truck profile. Spreading the forks hydraulically allows handling of two pallets side by side.

SPECIAL FEATURES: Large visibility window without hosing or valves obstructing the driver clear sight lines at all stacking heights so they can approach loads quickly and avoid damage. Also features bolt-on interchangeable forks. In addition, because you can move two pallets at a time instead of one, it allows you to do the same amount of work in half the time, which means reduced fuel and emissions.

HOW IT WORKS: You can handle a single pallet or spread the forks hydraulically to lift, carry and sideshift multiple pallets side by side.

CUSTOMERS: Large beverage companies, third-party logistics companies and roofing manufacturers.

WEBSITE: www.cascademlh.com



COMPANY: Hyster

PRODUCT: ZR Reach Truck

FUNCTION: The new ZR Class 2 narrow-aisle reach truck helps customers improve narrow-aisle warehouse and distribution center productivity.

SPECIAL FEATURES: The energy-efficient, AC-powered ZR reduces operating costs while providing increased dependability, ergonomics and serviceability. Hyster ZR reach trucks feature multiple programmable vehicle modes, electric power steering and automatic drive tire centering at key-on, saving time and money and conserving operator energy and battery life.

HOW IT WORKS: The brushless AC traction and hoist motors reduce maintenance costs, and sealed load wheel bearings reduce greasing requirements. Long-term cost of ownership is further decreased by dual articulating caster wheels for even tire wear and minimized tire scrub. The ZR reach truck also uses a CANbus communication system to provide real-time diagnostics and reduce wiring and electrical connections. Hyster’s innovative thermal management system for all motors and controllers provides added protection from overheating

WEBSITE: www.hysteramericas.com



COMPANY: Kalmar Industries

PRODUCT: Terminal Tractor

FUNCTION: Kalmar’s purpose-built terminal tractors are used to move trailers at ports, intermodal facilities and distribution centers.

SPECIAL FEATURES: Besides being the original manufacturer of terminal tractors, Kalmar was the first to engineer its machines with automatic transmissions, a rear door entry, integral air conditioning units, power cab tilt and ABS brake systems.
Kalmar was also the first to introduce a DOT/EPA-certified terminal tractor to the market, a paramount classification for distribution and industrial customers whose operation entails shunting trailers between yards via public streets and roadways.
Kalmar holds many patents and is the only terminal tractor manufacturer in the industry that pre-forms its chassis frame rails from steel plate. The frame rails on the units are designed with pre-punched holes, which allows optional equipment to be bolted on instead of welded, which can introduce fatigue to the frame.
The terminal tractors are designed with the latest ergonomic considerations in mind. The cab features power steering, automatic gear shifting, maximum visibility and a sharp turning radius, which provides drivers with comfort while increasing productivity.

HOW IT WORKS: Kalmar terminal tractors can turn around one trailer at least three times as fast as compared to an over-the-road truck. Faster transfer operations are thanks to its hydraulically powered, elevating 5th wheel — eliminating the need for the driver to crank the trailer’s landing gear and thereby decreasing operator fatigue.

CUSTOMERS: Many brand-name U.S. retailers employ these terminal tractors at their warehouse and distribution facilities. The model is also popular at intermodal yards and container terminals.

WEBSITE: www.kalmarind-northamerica.com

COMPANY: Crown Equipment Corp.

PRODUCT: RC 5500 Series Stand-Up Counterbalanced Lift Truck

FUNCTION: The RC 5500 Series is considered one of the most versatile performers, offering superior visibility, best-in-class comfort and ergonomics, intelligent technology and practical innovation.

SPECIAL FEATURES: Crown’s patent-pending, impact-reducing FlexRide suspension offers three times the protection from shock and vibration to minimize discomfort from running over dock plates and rough floors. In addition, a weight adjustment option allows suspension customization for optimum ride control.

HOW IT WORKS: Revolutionary stand-up design provides the flexibility and comfort required for faster throughput. The curved, low-profile power unit gains a couple more feet of clear view compared to competitors. With low step height and exceptional head clearance, frequent on/off tasks are faster and easier to create an ideal workspace.

NOTE: Crown is the number one brand of electric lift trucks in the United States, says the company, and is the sixth largest lift truck manufacturer in the world. It has earned a reputation for exceptional product design, engineering and manufacturing with its award-winning line of lift trucks.

WEBSITE: www.crown.com

COMPANY: Hamech Lift Trucks

PRODUCT: Hamech Internal Combustion (IC) Lift Trucks

FUNCTION: Hamech demonstrates solid value, providing dependable, proven performance with an emphasis on productivity and dealer support.

SPECIAL FEATURES: Aftermarket support is the primary advantage of Hamech. Service offerings include everything from training and maintenance to full parts support.
HOW IT WORKS: With straightforward, automotive-style control, hydrostatic power steering, an ergonomic design and excellent visibility, operators work faster and easier. Built for solid performance and designed to meet a variety of applications, these IC lift trucks offer capacities ranging from 3,000 to 10,000 pounds for cushion tire models and up to 35,000 pounds for pneumatic tire models.

NOTE: Hamech, a brand of Crown Equipment Corp., has established itself as an industry leader by offering a nationwide, comprehensive service support network for Hamech LPG, gas or diesel lift trucks.

WEBSITE: www.hamech.com