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Loaded container handlers

What are loaded container handlers (top loaders)?

A loaded container handler, also known as a top loader, is a heavy-duty container handling machine designed to lift, transport and stack fully loaded shipping containers. The terms loaded container handler and top loader are often used interchangeably within container terminals, inland depots and intermodal facilities.

Unlike empty container handlers, which are optimised for lighter empty containers and maximum stacking density, loaded container handlers are built to handle fully loaded containers safely and efficiently. Their high lifting capacity, excellent visibility and robust construction make them ideal for demanding container handling operations.

Top loaders are commonly used in:

  • Container terminals
  • Inland container depots
  • Intermodal and rail facilities
  • Port operations
  • Logistics hubs and container yards

Modern Kalmar loaded container handlers combine robust chassis construction, load-sensing hydraulics and ergonomic operator environments to help increase throughput, lower operating costs and improve safety. Features such as variable hydraulic lifting systems, advanced visibility and fuel-saving driveline technologies help operators move loaded containers more efficiently while reducing total cost of ownership.

Technical information

Technical info Specifications
Stacking height (9'6)
5
Lifting capacity (kg)
41000
Load centre (mm)
1750
Wheel base (mm)
6000
Engine
Cummins, Volvo
Transmission
Dana
Cab options
Spirit Delta

Kalmar Top Loaders will make your life easier

Our new G-Generation Kalmar Top Loaders are available with two lifting capacities, 40,000 kg or 41,000 kg, and are fitted with a range of features that will make your and your drivers’ lives easier.

A common platform to make things easier

With over 10,000 machines built on our G-Generation platform, you can expect
your new Kalmar Top Loader to be easier to operate and maintain as it has all of Kalmar’s experience and knowledge built-in.

Easier to lift heavy loads

All of our G-Generation Kalmar Top Loaders come fitted with a variable hydraulic lifting system, which provides exactly the right amount of lifting power based on the weight of your load, reducing your fuel consumption as your drivers no longer need to rev the engine while lifting.

Easier to operate

All Kalmar Top Loaders come fitted with our ergonomically designed EGO cabin, which has improved visibility and a fully adjustable steering wheel, seat and control panels. Plus, your drivers will be comfortable all year round with heating and ventilation fitted as standard.

Easier to service and maintain

With easily accessible service points, engine hatches instead of a hood, extended service intervals, improved diagnostics and fewer moving parts, your new Kalmar Top Loader will be easier and quicker to maintain, saving you time and money.

Improved visibility

Our EGO cabin provides improved visibility both forwards and backwards making it safer to operate and there are a number of additional options availible to make your machine even safer.

Safer to access

Your drivers will now be safer entering or exiting their Kalmar Top Loader, as there are more handrails and bars, plus all the climbing surfaces are non-slip. There are also steps on the right-hand side that can be used to enter or exit the cabin in emergencies.

Easier to service

With a tiltable cabin, hatches instead of a hood and easily accessible service points, your lift truck will be easier to service and maintain.

Common system for quicker troubleshooting

With common control and electrical systems, you will be able to identify and trouble-shoot any issues easily. Getting the issues solved quicker, means you will achieve a much higher utilisation rate with your new machine.

Powerful lifting equipment

Kalmar Top Loader lift trucks are built to take on the big loads as every component has been carefully selected to meet the highest standards, so you get a quality solution that has been built to last.

Easier on the environment

There are many easy things you can do to cut your emissions and reduce your fuel bill by up to 25% without compromising the operational efficiency of your lift truck, in comparison to our previous generation of top loaders.

Optimize your fleet

Kalmar Insight is a performance management tool that allows you to track your equipment while operating, making it easier for you to make decisions that will help improve your overall operations.

How top loaders compare to other container handling equipment?

Different types of container handling equipment are designed for different applications Choosing the right solution depends on container weight, stacking requirements and yard layout.  

Loaded container handlers (Top loaders)

Best for:

  • Handling fully loaded containers
  • Container terminals and intermodal depots
  • High lifting capacities
  • Fast loading and unloading operations

Empty container handlers

Best for:

  • Handling empty and semi-laden containers up to 11 ton only
  • High-density empty container storage
  • Lower operating costs per move
  • High stacking applications

Explore empty container handlers

Reachstackers

Best for:

  • Handling loaded containers across multiple rows
  • Long reach applications
  • Mixed terminal operations
  • Greater operational flexibility

 Explore reachstackers

Forklift trucks

Best for:

  • General cargo and container-related lifting
  • Warehouses and industrial sites
  • Handling pallets and heavy materials

Explore forklift trucks

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