Get FinancingHow To Choose The Right Container Handler
Container handlers are widely used at terminals, ports, railyards, and other similar settings the world over, but with so many different types, brands, and models to choose from, it can be challenging to find the best one for your operation. That choice begins with the application, which may involve handling basic containers or standardized intermodal shipping containers that meet ISO (International Organization for Standardization) specifications and are versatile enough to travel by ship, train, or truck. Some container handlers are also compatible with special attachments, such as steel grabs or magnets, making them well-suited for other industrial lifting applications, as well.
However, there are many other factors to take into account, including machine size and capacity, common features and special technologies, price, and condition. Read on to discover a few things that are important to keep in mind when considering a container handler purchase.
Container Handler Types
Container handlers are available in two main subtypes, mast and reach stacker, with a range of configurations in between, including empty and loaded (sometimes referred to as “laden” or “full,” container handlers). However, while size and capacities vary, they are all designed to lift and stack containers in either single or across multiple rows. Container handlers can place as many as eight or more containers in one stack, and most reach stackers can arrange containers in one to three rows. Each approach has pros and cons: With higher stacks, although you save valuable space, retrieving containers near the bottom of the stack can be rather time-consuming. With shorter, multi-row stacks, you must trade away valuable surface space for easier access.
Most operations will benefit from a mix of empty and loaded container handlers, including smaller models that can quickly stack empty containers for later use and larger models that can handle fully laden containers. It is important to keep in mind that lifting capacity and stacking height will vary with reach stackers depending on the row, with the highest capacity and height at the first and closest row and the lowest at the third and farthest row.
Size & Capacity
Empty mast container handlers and reach stackers are lighter, more agile, and smaller than other types, with wheelbases of between 130 and 220 inches (3,302 and 5,588 millimeters), which makes them ideal for working in tight quarters. They also have load centers of between 45 and 105 inches (1,143 and 2,667 millimeters) and lifting capacities of between 14,000 and 24,000 pounds (6,350 and 10,866 kilograms), although again, those figures will vary with reach stackers working in different row configurations.
Loaded mast container handlers are typically larger with wheelbases of between 185 and 240 inches (4,699 and 6,096 millimeters). They can also support heavier containers thanks to their lifting capacities of between 52,000 and 90,000 pounds (23,587 and 40,823 kilograms) and load centers ranging from 65 to 100 inches (1,651 to 2,540 millimeters). However, because mast container handlers can only lift vertically, they may not be ideal for all applications, including those that require arranging containers into rows.
Loaded reach stackers typically have wheelbases of between 250 and 320 inches (6,350 to 8,128 millimeters), load centers of between 50 and 85 inches (1,270 to 2,159 millimeters), and maximum lifting capacities of around 100,000 pounds (45,359 kilograms). Most stackers have diminishing lift capacities as they reach from one row to the next, including the Toyota THD9900-R60, which has a load capacity of 99,000 pounds (44,906 kilograms) in the first row, 60,000 pounds (27,216 kilograms) in the second, and 30,000 pounds (13,608 kilograms) in the third.
Another example is the Hyster RS46-41XLS, which has a load capacity of 101,413 pounds (46,000 kilograms) in the first row, 90,390 pounds (41,000 kilograms) in the second, and 55,777 pounds (25,300 kilograms) in the third. Konecranes’ SMV 4545 TCX5 stands out in this category as one of the rare models that has a lifting capacity of just over 99,200 pounds (45,000 kilograms) in all three rows with the help of support jacks.
Common Features & Technologies
Visibility is paramount with container handlers because they often work in high-traffic areas, and operators of mast models in particular benefit from wide views that sometimes offer visibility of up to 360 degrees. Most reach stackers have a boom that’s located above the cab, which also offers solid visibility aside from the somewhat obstructed rear view. However, many models make up for those obstructions with reverse, and sometimes forward, warning alarms. Other safety-oriented features include work lights inside and outside of the cab, distance and incline sensors, and more.
In terms of handling and performance, container handlers typically feature multifunction joysticks, adjustable steering columns for better, more comfortable control, and various components designed to secure containers during handling, including extendable spreaders, clamps, locks, and more. Other common features include touchscreen displays, onboard diagnostics systems, reinforced chassis, and engines that are easily accessible for maintenance and repair. Newer models also often have engines with advanced features, such as auto-shutdown in the event a machine is idling for too long, which aim to improve fuel efficiency and reduce operating costs.
Condition & Price
As with any piece of equipment, condition is an important consideration with container handlers because new models will have a higher price tag, but also often come with warranties and the peace of mind that you’re the first and only owner. However, a used container handler offers an opportunity to purchase a quality machine at a lower price, as long as you carefully inspect it, request information about its operating life, and just generally do your due diligence before signing off.
LiftsToday.com has hundreds of new and used container handlers for sale from such popular brands as CVS Ferrari, Fantuzzi Team Material Handling (FTMH), Hyster, Kalmar, Konecranes, and Taylor Machine Works. With asking prices starting at less than $8,000 and ranging to upwards of $550,000 and models from 1978 to today, you’re sure to find a container handler that will meet your needs.