Empty container handlers are purpose-built machines designed to move, stack and store empty shipping containers quickly and efficiently. Optimised for speed and manoeuvrability, they enable operators to handle high container volumes while reducing fuel or energy consumption and lowering cost per move.
Used across container terminals, ports, rail yards and inland depots, empty container handlers play a critical role in maintaining efficient yard operations. Their ability to stack containers up to 8+1-high helps maximise storage density while ensuring smooth container flows between ships, trucks and storage areas.
Modern empty container handlers typically offer lifting capacities between 8 and 11 tonnes and combine advanced hydraulic systems with efficient drivetrains to deliver fast cycle times without unnecessary energy use. Load-sensing hydraulics optimise lifting power based on the container weight, improving both efficiency and productivity in daily operations..
As terminals move towards more sustainable operations, electric empty container handlers are becoming increasingly important. These models deliver zero emissions at source, lower energy costs and reduced maintenance, while still providing the power and performance required for demanding container logistics operations.
Kalmar offers one of the industry's broadest ranges of empty container handlers, with diesel and electric models designed for different yard layouts, throughput requirements and sustainability goals. Whether you need a cost-efficient machine for everyday operations or a high-performance electric solution for intensive container handling, there is a model to match your application.
Best for: High-throughput terminals pursuing ambitious sustainability targets.
Ideal for: Large container terminals and logistics operators looking to reduce emissions without compromising productivity.
Best for: Operators taking their first step towards electrification.
Ideal for: Smaller depots, intermodal operations and sites where noise and emissions reduction are priorities.
Best for: High-volume container yards that require maximum flexibility and performance.
Ideal for: Large container terminals, ports and logistics hubs handling high daily container volumes.
Best for: Cost-conscious operations looking for proven performance and reliability.
Ideal for: Inland depots, regional ports and operators seeking the lowest acquisition cost while maintaining productivity and uptime.
At Kalmar, the safety of people working with our machines is always at the top of our minds, which is why meeting global safety standards is important to us.The safety standard EN 1175:2020, which sets the electrical and electronic component standards for industrial trucks, has been updated to improve the safety of these machines while in operation, this update is valid from April 2023.
All Kalmar counter balanced machines, including reachstackers, empty container handlers and forklifts have been updated to meet this new standard to ensure that working with a Kalmar machine is as safe as it can be.
Watch the video
