Cargotec has delivered a total four Kalmar DRT450-type reachstackers to a major freight forwarder and logistics specialist in Australia. The logistics company will use the DRT450s for rugged heavy-duty handling at the Australian Maritime Complex (AMC) in Henderson, Western Australia.

The order was placed in December 2011. Since then it has had a major impact on subsequent sales of the unit in the Asia-Pacific market and of the order numbers for Kalmar-branded machines in China.

The DRT450 reachstackers have been designed to specifically meet the requirements of Asia-Pacific customers. Launched in 2011 and built in Shanghai, the DRT450 offers a lift capacity of 45,000 kg, features a wheelbase of 6,250 mm and can stack 9ft 6in containers up to five high. The new series is available with a hydraulic sliding driver cabin, while two engine options are available.

The customer is using the DRT450 reachstackers to handle 20ft and 40ft container loads moving through the AMC for regional offshore developments. One of the key handling requirements for the reachstackers is to load barges via stern ramps for towage to the North Western Shelf. The machines will also be used to lift breakbulk cargo. The new units represent an upgrade on existing container handling equipment.

John Nash, Business Development Manager, Cargotec Australia, says: “We were able to secure this contract primarily on the basis of the quality of the product. The short lead time Cargotec was able to offer was another significant advantage for the customer, allowing it to upgrade its handling operation with minimal delay.”

The Henderson facility is already equipped with 12 DCE160 and 12 DCF330 lift trucks, while a number of TR618i Kalmar terminal tractors are also in operation.

Cargotec has delivered almost 350 medium and heavy lift capacity reachstackers to customers in Australia since 2004.