The Port of Felixstowe’s new state-of-the-art empty container handling fleet is up and running following completion of its commissioning period The new fleet comprises 12 empty container handlers, four toplift machines and one reachstacker, all manufactured by Kalmar Industries of Sweden. Chris Lewis, chief executive officer of Hutchison Ports (UK) Limited, owner of the port, said:“ This new equipment will further secure the Port of Felixstowe’s position at the top of the field and provide our customers with the most proficient empty-handling service, driven by the latest technology.” Two further empty container handlers are also due for delivery at the beginning of September.

“The industry is constantly evolving, requiring greater productivity and efficiency than ever before.  This new equipment will further secure the Port of Felixstowe’s position at the top of the field and provide our customers with the most proficient empty-handling service, driven by the latest technology.”

The equipment was transported from the main factory in Lidhult, Sweden, with final assembly and engineering completed upon arrival at the Port of Felixstowe by Kalmar engineers. Following staff training and familiarisation, the vehicles were thoroughly tested before being declared fit for service. 

The new vehicles are equipped with Volvo TAD760VE engines and are able to stack five 9`6” containers high, with a total weight lift capacity of nine tonnes.  These features will allow for faster turnaround times and greater manoeuvrability of containers around the Port.