DP World Australia, the country's largest stevedore, has expanded its operations by ordering 38 new Kalmar machines for its new logistics arm, DP World Logistics Australia.
The move into landside logistics is part of a long-term strategy to move beyond the port gate, offering efficiencies to customers and other stakeholders in the supply chain.
DP World Logistics Australia's Botany Intermodal terminal has already received 22 units, with operations in Sydney, Melbourne, Fremantle and DP World Australia's semi-automated terminal in Brisbane still to benefit from more deliveries.
In total, seven Kalmar reachstackers, 11 loaded and 20 empty container handlers will have all arrived by September 2017.
The new machines add to an existing fleet of Kalmar rubber-tyred gantry cranes (RTGs), straddle carriers and terminal tractors.
Mark Hulme, who leads the new DP World Logistics Australia business as Chief Operating Officer Logistics, wants customers and stakeholders to benefit from improved stability and customer service integration down the logistics chain.
When its new logistics arm started operating, Hulme said: “DP World Logistics Australia will offer fast and efficient container coordination, movement, cleaning, repairs, refurbishment and storage services to customers who are transiting container freight into and out of the terminals.”
Transmission technology such as Kalmar K-Motion is helping the terminal operator to achieve such goals as its reachstackers secure uptime and productivity while reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
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The Kalmar machines, powered by Volvo IV Final engines, meet emissions standards and perform remote monitoring and reporting through the Kalmar SmartFleet system.
Ron French, National Engineering Manager at DP World Australia, said: “Kalmar won a competitive tender to renew, and increase, our fleet of machines in all our facilities around Australia.
“Our existing relationship gave us leverage to secure the best outcome for DP World Australia with respect to pricing, service and ongoing support.
“The K-Motion option was very attractive due to lower fuel consumption and environmental impact.”
Michael Wahab, Director Mobile Equipment at Kalmar, commented: “We are happy to continue to serve DP World Logistics Australia with reliable and efficient equipment tailored to their needs.
“The units are also equipped with environmentally conscious technology, including innovative K-Motion technology to significantly lessen fuel usage and reduce emissions by up to 40%.”
