Traditional equipment that helps lift containers is quite pricey; hence, they are only used in places with a high container throughput; these are the freight hubs. Handling containers outside these hubs can be very challenging, and the only way out is to hire a mobile container lifting service, like a truck crane, side loader, etc.
However, in recent times, different types of container lifting solutions have been introduced, which are much more affordable. In this article, we will explore different options that can help you with container lifting.
Container Lifting Jacks
Container lifting jacks are portable and one of the most cost-effective solutions. They are suitable for locations where the volume of containers is quite low. They can lift containers weighing up to 32,000 kg. However, this is a manual machine which is a bit slow, but you can trade it off with its portability and affordability. This is not the ideal choice if you are looking for a fast and time-saving solution to lift your containers.
Straddle Carrier
They are available in various sizes, and they lift the containers from the top, just like a gantry crane. They are mobile on-site and capable of moving the containers with ease. But, as they are quite big and bulky, they need to be operated on a reinforced concrete surface. One can also get small-sized straddle carriers, known as “mini straddle,” which can handle low-medium volumes of containers.
Gantry Crane
These are huge cranes that you will find on the dockside. They help with container lifting from the ships. They can easily move up and down a dock but remain fixed in one location. They are very costly and mostly used in busy ports. There are smaller-sized gantry cranes available for stacking shipping containers in depots and various other locations with medium-high container volumes.
Reach Stacker
It is one of the fastest and most efficient options for handling containers. They are capable of lifting very heavy equipment, and they can move single containers around on-site. Depending on their sizes, they can stack 2-3 containers high and deep. These are automated equipment controlled by the driver without any assistance from the personnel on the ground. However, these features make this lifting equipment quite expensive.
Forklift
These are indispensable equipment pieces that you will see in most warehousing and manufacturing operations. They are generally used for moving general material within a short distance. However, one can get bigger and high-capacity forklifts, which can lift and move empty and lightweight containers when needed.
Previously, shippers used to pay more as additional wait time fees to the transportation companies while the containers were loaded and unloaded. Also, they had to pay more from ground cranes for lifting the containers or simply had no options left. With this equipment, things have become easy and convenient for everyone.
