Independent materials handling specialists, Rushlift, has provided a major new fleet of materials handling equipment to PD Ports, including a fleet of 45t counterbalance forklifts fitted with a new integrated generator powering magnetic plate attachments.
The new fleet for Teesport was developed in conjunction with a number of suppliers as part of Rushlift’s ‘applications engineering’ approach to problem solving which ensures customers receive not only the right equipment, but original solutions to their materials handling needs.
Rushlift’s expertise in specifying, managing and maintaining equipment makes it a leading provider of innovative materials handling solutions to its customers. Operating from six locations throughout the UK, and with over 150 mobile engineers, it services customers from Cornwall to the Isle of Skye.
Through its industry leading online fleet management system, customers are able to access their fleet records, log breakdowns and manage their account in real time.
“Because our focus is different, there are many examples of us bringing out customers real innovation, new or unusual products or simply a refreshing approach to the way we do business,” says Rushlift Chairman, Peter Cosgrove.
“We’ve championed the use of the latest battery technology at British Airways; re-designed 16 tonnes counterbalance trucks with our forklift suppliers; structured the UK’s largest ever supply and fleet management deal of Saint-Gobain and kept Magnet ahead of the game with flexible contract arrangements. We are defined by the service we give our customers, not by the make of equipment we provide,” adds Peter.
Being mounted on the side of the truck, within the existing footprint, the generators for PD Ports improve dramatically on manoeuvrability, visibility and safety, according to Rushlift’s corporate accounts manager, Ian Hunter.
“We offer a wide range of heavy forklifts suitable for port and terminals, as well as heavy industries and steelworks,” says Ian. “Often these require powered magnetic plate attachments with their own power source. The latest developments in AC generator technology have enabled us to work with our suppliers to provide a fantastic integrated solution.” The generator powers the attachment and runs directly through the main truck controls, offering a host of additional power management and control benefits.
The new fleet is also being supplemented with additional generators for the retro-fitting of the existing equipment, as previous models relied on generators large enough to cover the entire counterweight, severely limiting rear visibility. The new smaller generators slot neatly into the side stairwell.
Rushlift has extensive experience with the heavy truck user market, having acquired Newport-based, Sleabond in 2007. The business, together with the national importership for the heavy counterbalance range of Svetrucks, was integrated into the main Rushlift operation earlier this year. PD Ports has one of the UK’s largest fleets of Svetrucks. Rushlift managing director, Graham Farquhar, pointed to the widespread recognition of Svetruck quality and durability as key factors in the brand’s growth in the UK.
Said Graham: “The Svetruck is the premium machine in terms of quality, which together with our service coverage and fleet management expertise, offers a superb solution for heavy end users. The last 12 to 18 months has seen considerable development in this part of the market. Order values above £1m are now increasingly common and this is a great new option that will be favourably received.”