UK Port Orders 14 Cargotec Straddle Carriers

UK based Forth Ports orders the carriers for its upgrade of the London Container Terminal (LCT) at Tilbury.

Forth Ports is investing in substantial equipment and site upgrading to LCT to ensure customers continue to receive a first rate and enhanced service. It is also integrating LCT with the busy short-sea terminal, also located at Tilbury. Part of the investment plan is the purchase of 14 new Kalmar ESC 450W straddle carriers from Cargotec.

LCT handles in excess of half a million containers per year and is the only UK port servicing both deep sea and short sea customers. It is located on the Thames and is a key shipping and distribution location with access to London and the South East.

Kalmar ESC 450W straddle carrier's 7+ generation models combine high performance and productivity with low maintenance and operating costs. Designed with operators in mind, they deliver strong environmental benefits which can be further enhanced with hybrid operation. The machines are equipped with Kalmar's standard W-type front cabin complete for container handling with 4-high stacking and 50-tonne load capacity.

Stuart Wallace, Divisional Director of London Container Terminal at the Port of Tilbury, said: "We are confident of delivering a highly efficient and positive experience for our customers.  We are delighted to work with Kalmar on this straddle carrier deal, which is the first step of many in the modernisation and upgrading of LCT."