Freight Conference Enlightenment

Last week’s World of Freight Summit in Vienna, attended by Publisher David Priestman, featured two days of panel discussions covering the major current topics. Here’s what he learned:

Freight procurement processes have shortened to a monthly rhythm, as typically opposed to annually, especially for aircargo. This has been caused by ongoing supply chain disruptions. Frequent procurement is made possible by digitization and index-based pricing. There are more RFQs, for sea freight too, which is trending towards quarterly procurement. Frequent quoting is inefficient for both parties so automated bidding helps. Execution is key too. “If you have a nice freight rate but you never get it on a ship that’s no good,” Bernard Schmaldienst of Transporeon said. There is a need for interoperability, connecting so many partners in a supply chain with the goal being unification and standardization. Practical issues persist, such as the driver shortage and lack of young drivers. We may see autonomous trucks on hub-to-hub routes soon.

“The more ecological a supply chain the more efficient it is as you’re not wasting resources,” stated Peter Menky, boss of DoDo. Green logistics was a core theme at the conference. As Drees & Sommer’s Georg Stadlhofer put it, “sustainability is a pre-requisite, there’s no other way, no discussion any more when constructing new warehouses.” The challenge is in updating older distribution centres. Rather than ‘green washing’, genuine internal and external improvements are needed, which the panellists felt is hardest with owner-occupied sites. For new-builds the investor, developer and occupier need to be aligned. Heat pumps and solar panels are in vogue.

In terms of warehouse location, brownfield sites are popular again. They have the location and facilities but often will need multi-storey solutions to meet urban demand. Location is still key and the target and source of products determines that. There is a need to triple warehouse development in order to meet a 30 year target of modernising and re-developing all of Europe’s DC property.

 

Freight Conference Enlightenment

Last week’s World of Freight Summit in Vienna, attended by Publisher David Priestman, featured two days of panel discussions covering the major current topics. Here’s what he learned:

Freight procurement processes have shortened to a monthly rhythm, as typically opposed to annually, especially for aircargo. This has been caused by ongoing supply chain disruptions. Frequent procurement is made possible by digitization and index-based pricing. There are more RFQs, for sea freight too, which is trending towards quarterly procurement. Frequent quoting is inefficient for both parties so automated bidding helps. Execution is key too. “If you have a nice freight rate but you never get it on a ship that’s no good,” Bernard Schmaldienst of Transporeon said. There is a need for interoperability, connecting so many partners in a supply chain with the goal being unification and standardization. Practical issues persist, such as the driver shortage and lack of young drivers. We may see autonomous trucks on hub-to-hub routes soon.

“The more ecological a supply chain the more efficient it is as you’re not wasting resources,” stated Peter Menky, boss of DoDo. Green logistics was a core theme at the conference. As Drees & Sommer’s Georg Stadlhofer put it, “sustainability is a pre-requisite, there’s no other way, no discussion any more when constructing new warehouses.” The challenge is in updating older distribution centres. Rather than ‘green washing’, genuine internal and external improvements are needed, which the panellists felt is hardest with owner-occupied sites. For new-builds the investor, developer and occupier need to be aligned. Heat pumps and solar panels are in vogue.

In terms of warehouse location, brownfield sites are popular again. They have the location and facilities but often will need multi-storey solutions to meet urban demand. Location is still key and the target and source of products determines that. There is a need to triple warehouse development in order to meet a 30 year target of modernising and re-developing all of Europe’s DC property.

 

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May 2022

The May 2022 edition of Logistics Business magazine is live! As well as opinion from industry leaders – including exclusive interviews with XPO’s UK boss Dan Myers, and Jos de Vuyst, the President of the European Materials Handling Federation – our features and interviews will inform you about the major issues of the moment. Topics covered this issue include the rise and rise of inventory drones, the importance of geographic placement of DCs, and the critical role data visibility plays in supply chain optimisation, as well as our regular look at the world of intralogistics from forklifts to containers to IT and and much more.

84 pages of a truly international magazine covering the global logistics industry. Subscribe for free now.

May 2022

The May 2022 edition of Logistics Business magazine is live! As well as opinion from industry leaders – including exclusive interviews with XPO’s UK boss Dan Myers, and Jos de Vuyst, the President of the European Materials Handling Federation – our features and interviews will inform you about the major issues of the moment. Topics covered this issue include the rise and rise of inventory drones, the importance of geographic placement of DCs, and the critical role data visibility plays in supply chain optimisation, as well as our regular look at the world of intralogistics from forklifts to containers to IT and and much more.

84 pages of a truly international magazine covering the global logistics industry. Subscribe for free now.

Norlat launches breakbulk service to USA

Neustädter Hafen remains an important hub for breakbulk transports to North America: Norlat Shipping Ltd. AS, headquartered in Sarpsborg, Norway, has announced the launch of a regular service from Bremen to ports on the US East coast and in the Gulf of Mexico. The new service will focus on large breakbulk goods such as forestry and steel products. In its recently published timetable, Norlat Shipping revealed that the first departure from Bremen is scheduled for the beginning of June.

The company, with roots going back to 1907, has been operating for some 30 years with its own and chartered ships mainly from Scandinavia to North Africa and the USA. Apart from its headquarters, the company also has branches in Bergen, Norway and in Gothenburg, Sweden.

For BLG LOGISTICS and Neustädter Hafen, the start of this new service sets an important signal: “Transports to North America have always been the backbone of Bremen’s port operations. We’re delighted with Norlat’s decision to regularly use Neustädter Hafen and offer our established customers a new option. It will massively strengthen our position in this operating area,” says Sven Riekers, Head of Sales for the breakbulk activities of the BLG Group.

Commenting on the move, Thomas Johansen, Senior Chartering Manager at Norlat Shipping, says “Many years of personal experience with the terminal, its workforce and the customers served made this an easy decision. We know the structures at the port and value BLG’s operational competence. These are the best conditions to ensure we’ll be able to offer customers an attractive new service.”

 

Norlat launches breakbulk service to USA

Neustädter Hafen remains an important hub for breakbulk transports to North America: Norlat Shipping Ltd. AS, headquartered in Sarpsborg, Norway, has announced the launch of a regular service from Bremen to ports on the US East coast and in the Gulf of Mexico. The new service will focus on large breakbulk goods such as forestry and steel products. In its recently published timetable, Norlat Shipping revealed that the first departure from Bremen is scheduled for the beginning of June.

The company, with roots going back to 1907, has been operating for some 30 years with its own and chartered ships mainly from Scandinavia to North Africa and the USA. Apart from its headquarters, the company also has branches in Bergen, Norway and in Gothenburg, Sweden.

For BLG LOGISTICS and Neustädter Hafen, the start of this new service sets an important signal: “Transports to North America have always been the backbone of Bremen’s port operations. We’re delighted with Norlat’s decision to regularly use Neustädter Hafen and offer our established customers a new option. It will massively strengthen our position in this operating area,” says Sven Riekers, Head of Sales for the breakbulk activities of the BLG Group.

Commenting on the move, Thomas Johansen, Senior Chartering Manager at Norlat Shipping, says “Many years of personal experience with the terminal, its workforce and the customers served made this an easy decision. We know the structures at the port and value BLG’s operational competence. These are the best conditions to ensure we’ll be able to offer customers an attractive new service.”

 

Doosan launches fuel-efficient heavy lifting 9-Series

Doosan, a leading manufacturer of robust high performance forklift trucks, has introduced the latest addition to its powerful 9-Series forklift trucks with the launch of the heavy-lifting D160S-9 range – featuring Doosan’s new world-class DL06V(P) Euro Stage V compliant IC engine.

Available in five models across a capacity range of 10-16 tonnes, these tough diesel-powered trucks offer an unbeatable combination of outstanding fuel efficiency, performance, driver comfort and safety, making them perfect for the most demanding industrial environments.

A new capacity model offered for the first time with the 9-Series is the DV160S-9, a 16 tonne (1,200mm load centre) pneumatic counterbalanced forklift truck capable of effortlessly handling the heaviest of loads over long shifts.

The new highly fuel-efficient Doosan-built DL06V(P) Stage V diesel engine brings huge benefits in terms of ultra-low emissions and dramatically lower operating costs – providing a 5% improvement in fuel efficiency, combined with a 20% reduction in energy lost as heat, compared to previous models. The new engine also starts quickly and efficiently in cold conditions.

Importantly, Doosan’s latest engine design is fully compliant with Euro Stage V regulations and is fitted with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). In normal operation, regeneration of the DPF takes place automatically during driving – maximising uptime and ensuring uninterrupted all-round performance.

A cost-saving standard feature of the new range is the multi torque function, allowing the operator to select the performance most suited to the task. ECO mode minimises fuel consumption, cutting down on unnecessary acceleration; High mode increases power output to match the demands of heavy-duty work; and Standard mode maintains output at levels suited to everyday tasks.

Responsive performance

Powerful, robust performance is assured. Doosan’s D160S-9 range has a new highly durable heavy duty drive axle and is equipped with an electronically controlled three-speed ZF transmission, providing the driver with a smooth gear change every time and precision control when handling heavy loads.

A new steer axle incorporating taper roller bearings has also been introduced, offering greater durability. And, importantly, the truck’s new load sensing hydraulic system automatically adjusts in accordance to the load being carried, reducing fuel consumption and heat generated on long runs.

A new sleek cab design offers increased visibility, greater comfort and enhanced ergonomics – giving the driver the perfect conditions for safe, efficient operation.

The cab has been cleverly designed to reduce blind spots and provide greater all-round visibility. And with an all-new ‘full floating’ cabin design, with improved sound insulation, noise has been reduced to just 71db(A) and vibration to an absolute minimum.

In-cab air quality has been enhanced too. By introducing positive air pressure within the cabin and installing two internal filters the driver is protected against the harmful effects of dusty working environments, making the D160S-9 ideal for brick works and foundries. In addition, the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system offers fully automatic temperature control and can be easily adjusted in manual mode.

Information at a glance

When it comes to ergonomics the new cab layout of the D160S-9 firmly places the operator in the command driving position. An integrated 7” full LCD multi-functional display positioned close-to-eye level, along with clearly arranged switches incorporating status indicators and finger-tip controls (optional) for effortless actions, all help to boost productivity and enhance on-site safety

Along with offering easy to view data on the truck’s status, the multi-functional display panel includes an integrated maintenance management programme, diagnostic functions and PIN code security. When used in conjunction with optional front and rear cameras the panel can be used to display forward and reverse views, helping to improve safety on site. A weight indicator is another optional extra.

Included as standard is Doosan’s industry leading sealed, oil-cooled disc brake system, which is virtually maintenance free and lasts up to five times longer when compared to conventional shoe brakes. The sealed units protect against outside elements such as dirt, water and grit, ensuring top-rate braking performance for enhanced safety and increased productivity.

Safety is foremost across Doosan’s entire new 9-Series, as reflected in many of the design features already outlined. In addition, some further prominent safety features are: An operator sensing system; LED lights; hill start assist; rear object detection system (option); auto tilt levelling (option): and blue safety light projection.

Doosan takes ease of maintenance into account too, with improved accessibility to the engine and service areas – the cab tilts back automatically, opening up to 60°. The pump, brake and steering pressure-check ports are centralised for easy inspection and maintenance, and electronic components are centralised for convenience too.

Doosan says its new D160S-9 range offers all the power and performance needed to get the job done.

 

 

Doosan launches fuel-efficient heavy lifting 9-Series

Doosan, a leading manufacturer of robust high performance forklift trucks, has introduced the latest addition to its powerful 9-Series forklift trucks with the launch of the heavy-lifting D160S-9 range – featuring Doosan’s new world-class DL06V(P) Euro Stage V compliant IC engine.

Available in five models across a capacity range of 10-16 tonnes, these tough diesel-powered trucks offer an unbeatable combination of outstanding fuel efficiency, performance, driver comfort and safety, making them perfect for the most demanding industrial environments.

A new capacity model offered for the first time with the 9-Series is the DV160S-9, a 16 tonne (1,200mm load centre) pneumatic counterbalanced forklift truck capable of effortlessly handling the heaviest of loads over long shifts.

The new highly fuel-efficient Doosan-built DL06V(P) Stage V diesel engine brings huge benefits in terms of ultra-low emissions and dramatically lower operating costs – providing a 5% improvement in fuel efficiency, combined with a 20% reduction in energy lost as heat, compared to previous models. The new engine also starts quickly and efficiently in cold conditions.

Importantly, Doosan’s latest engine design is fully compliant with Euro Stage V regulations and is fitted with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). In normal operation, regeneration of the DPF takes place automatically during driving – maximising uptime and ensuring uninterrupted all-round performance.

A cost-saving standard feature of the new range is the multi torque function, allowing the operator to select the performance most suited to the task. ECO mode minimises fuel consumption, cutting down on unnecessary acceleration; High mode increases power output to match the demands of heavy-duty work; and Standard mode maintains output at levels suited to everyday tasks.

Responsive performance

Powerful, robust performance is assured. Doosan’s D160S-9 range has a new highly durable heavy duty drive axle and is equipped with an electronically controlled three-speed ZF transmission, providing the driver with a smooth gear change every time and precision control when handling heavy loads.

A new steer axle incorporating taper roller bearings has also been introduced, offering greater durability. And, importantly, the truck’s new load sensing hydraulic system automatically adjusts in accordance to the load being carried, reducing fuel consumption and heat generated on long runs.

A new sleek cab design offers increased visibility, greater comfort and enhanced ergonomics – giving the driver the perfect conditions for safe, efficient operation.

The cab has been cleverly designed to reduce blind spots and provide greater all-round visibility. And with an all-new ‘full floating’ cabin design, with improved sound insulation, noise has been reduced to just 71db(A) and vibration to an absolute minimum.

In-cab air quality has been enhanced too. By introducing positive air pressure within the cabin and installing two internal filters the driver is protected against the harmful effects of dusty working environments, making the D160S-9 ideal for brick works and foundries. In addition, the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system offers fully automatic temperature control and can be easily adjusted in manual mode.

Information at a glance

When it comes to ergonomics the new cab layout of the D160S-9 firmly places the operator in the command driving position. An integrated 7” full LCD multi-functional display positioned close-to-eye level, along with clearly arranged switches incorporating status indicators and finger-tip controls (optional) for effortless actions, all help to boost productivity and enhance on-site safety

Along with offering easy to view data on the truck’s status, the multi-functional display panel includes an integrated maintenance management programme, diagnostic functions and PIN code security. When used in conjunction with optional front and rear cameras the panel can be used to display forward and reverse views, helping to improve safety on site. A weight indicator is another optional extra.

Included as standard is Doosan’s industry leading sealed, oil-cooled disc brake system, which is virtually maintenance free and lasts up to five times longer when compared to conventional shoe brakes. The sealed units protect against outside elements such as dirt, water and grit, ensuring top-rate braking performance for enhanced safety and increased productivity.

Safety is foremost across Doosan’s entire new 9-Series, as reflected in many of the design features already outlined. In addition, some further prominent safety features are: An operator sensing system; LED lights; hill start assist; rear object detection system (option); auto tilt levelling (option): and blue safety light projection.

Doosan takes ease of maintenance into account too, with improved accessibility to the engine and service areas – the cab tilts back automatically, opening up to 60°. The pump, brake and steering pressure-check ports are centralised for easy inspection and maintenance, and electronic components are centralised for convenience too.

Doosan says its new D160S-9 range offers all the power and performance needed to get the job done.

 

 

Toyota launches its new compact electric forklift

Toyota Material Handling UK has introduced the Traigo24, its new three-wheel electric forklift truck. Designed for simple, straightforward operations in confined or tight spaces, the models range from 1 to 1.5 tonnes and are available with energy-efficient lithium-ion power and great ergonomics for increased productivity.

The new Toyota Traigo24 electric counterbalance range offers a choice of models with capacities of 1, 1.25 and 1.5 tonnes with lift heights up to 6.5m. This easy-to-drive compact three-wheel truck allows for safe and efficient operations in tight spaces or congested areas. A wide range of light to mid-duty applications can be handled by this driver-friendly truck and its size and flexibility make it ideal for factories, warehouses, and shops, without compromising on safety, reliability, or comfort.

Sam Gray, Toyota Materials Handling UK’s Sales Training & Product Development Manager, comments: “There is currently a strong demand for electric CB forklifts, with many differing requirements from our customers, depending on the loads being handled, the working environment and the right energy solutions.

“Whether it’s our recent Traigo80 trucks that truly allow customers to make the shift to electric power, without compromising on performance during intensive use or our new compact Traigo24 models that make it easy for customers with occasional use in compact applications, we are able to meet every need.”

The extremely compact chassis design of this new 24-volt electric forklift makes it ideal in tight spaces and confined areas. Highly manoeuvrable, it is perfect for stacking loads in narrow aisles, even with the 1.5 tonnes model that has a new shorter chassis enhancing driveability and efficiency with the highest capacity. The Toyota Traigo24 delivers a combination of agility, ease of use and efficiency for simple, occasional handling.

Despite the Traigo24’s compact dimensions, the operator feels comfortable in the driver’s seat thanks to numerous ergonomic features that improve the working environment and productivity.  The integrated display provides key operational information within easy reach, such as lift height, load weight and mast position. The redesigned lower dashboard also helps to increase efficiency by providing excellent forward visibility. On top of this, more space has been created for the operator’s feet, with a new pedal layout, and a tilting steering column with position memory.

Additionally, drivers can choose from a range of controls that best fit their driving style: mini-levers, a multi-function control unit, or the standard driver-side levers.  All of these features contribute to improved productivity, efficiency and enhanced operator safety.

Energy-efficient power

The 24V electric range is available with lithium-ion power technology as well as traditional lead-acid batteries. A choice of different Intelligent Energy Packs are available, based on high-density lithium-ion battery solutions from Toyota Material Handling. Allowing for maximum energy efficiency while reducing CO2 emissions and energy costs, the concept enables customers to calculate the optimum combination of battery and charger to suit working patterns, taking into account operating times and scheduled breaks during the normal working shift.

The new exterior design gives the Traigo24 a ‘family look and feel’ in line with the Traigo48 and the recently launched Traigo80. Both the overhead guard and the counterweight have been redesigned to facilitate material handling operations specific to this truck. In addition to being able to operate inside and occasionally outside, the Traigo24 offers different cabin options such as a canvas cabin and a cabin without doors or front windshield and roof to guarantee optimal operator comfort and efficiency.

Safety first

The Toyota Traigo24 will be available as a connected smart truck, allowing customers to monitor and improve their operations in terms of safety, productivity and cost-efficiency. Some of the features that are available with Toyota’s I_Site fleet management system include: PIN code/Smart Access, only authorising drivers with a PIN code or Smart card, both integrated in the dashboard next to the display, to activate the truck. Another I_Site feature available as an option is the pre-operational check, allowing drivers to start up the forklift only after having answered a series of questions that ensure the truck is reliable and safe to operate.

All Traigo24 electric trucks are equipped as standard with Toyota’s unique System of Active Stability (SAS) ensuring excellent forklift stability by protecting the operator and load when driving, turning, and lifting. SAS provides advanced technology increasing safety and improving productivity.

The new 24V model also offers a range of options to enhance productivity and efficiency in material handling operations. Two new masts have been added to the new Traigo24 model, the FV and FSV masts, both increasing visibility on fork tips for enhanced productivity but also allowing manoeuvrability in low-ceiling work environments which is a nice add-on to the truck’s compactness.

Moreover, powerful front and rear LED lights are now available as options on this new electric forklift guaranteeing safer operation in dark areas but also reducing energy consumption.

Toyota launches its new compact electric forklift

Toyota Material Handling UK has introduced the Traigo24, its new three-wheel electric forklift truck. Designed for simple, straightforward operations in confined or tight spaces, the models range from 1 to 1.5 tonnes and are available with energy-efficient lithium-ion power and great ergonomics for increased productivity.

The new Toyota Traigo24 electric counterbalance range offers a choice of models with capacities of 1, 1.25 and 1.5 tonnes with lift heights up to 6.5m. This easy-to-drive compact three-wheel truck allows for safe and efficient operations in tight spaces or congested areas. A wide range of light to mid-duty applications can be handled by this driver-friendly truck and its size and flexibility make it ideal for factories, warehouses, and shops, without compromising on safety, reliability, or comfort.

Sam Gray, Toyota Materials Handling UK’s Sales Training & Product Development Manager, comments: “There is currently a strong demand for electric CB forklifts, with many differing requirements from our customers, depending on the loads being handled, the working environment and the right energy solutions.

“Whether it’s our recent Traigo80 trucks that truly allow customers to make the shift to electric power, without compromising on performance during intensive use or our new compact Traigo24 models that make it easy for customers with occasional use in compact applications, we are able to meet every need.”

The extremely compact chassis design of this new 24-volt electric forklift makes it ideal in tight spaces and confined areas. Highly manoeuvrable, it is perfect for stacking loads in narrow aisles, even with the 1.5 tonnes model that has a new shorter chassis enhancing driveability and efficiency with the highest capacity. The Toyota Traigo24 delivers a combination of agility, ease of use and efficiency for simple, occasional handling.

Despite the Traigo24’s compact dimensions, the operator feels comfortable in the driver’s seat thanks to numerous ergonomic features that improve the working environment and productivity.  The integrated display provides key operational information within easy reach, such as lift height, load weight and mast position. The redesigned lower dashboard also helps to increase efficiency by providing excellent forward visibility. On top of this, more space has been created for the operator’s feet, with a new pedal layout, and a tilting steering column with position memory.

Additionally, drivers can choose from a range of controls that best fit their driving style: mini-levers, a multi-function control unit, or the standard driver-side levers.  All of these features contribute to improved productivity, efficiency and enhanced operator safety.

Energy-efficient power

The 24V electric range is available with lithium-ion power technology as well as traditional lead-acid batteries. A choice of different Intelligent Energy Packs are available, based on high-density lithium-ion battery solutions from Toyota Material Handling. Allowing for maximum energy efficiency while reducing CO2 emissions and energy costs, the concept enables customers to calculate the optimum combination of battery and charger to suit working patterns, taking into account operating times and scheduled breaks during the normal working shift.

The new exterior design gives the Traigo24 a ‘family look and feel’ in line with the Traigo48 and the recently launched Traigo80. Both the overhead guard and the counterweight have been redesigned to facilitate material handling operations specific to this truck. In addition to being able to operate inside and occasionally outside, the Traigo24 offers different cabin options such as a canvas cabin and a cabin without doors or front windshield and roof to guarantee optimal operator comfort and efficiency.

Safety first

The Toyota Traigo24 will be available as a connected smart truck, allowing customers to monitor and improve their operations in terms of safety, productivity and cost-efficiency. Some of the features that are available with Toyota’s I_Site fleet management system include: PIN code/Smart Access, only authorising drivers with a PIN code or Smart card, both integrated in the dashboard next to the display, to activate the truck. Another I_Site feature available as an option is the pre-operational check, allowing drivers to start up the forklift only after having answered a series of questions that ensure the truck is reliable and safe to operate.

All Traigo24 electric trucks are equipped as standard with Toyota’s unique System of Active Stability (SAS) ensuring excellent forklift stability by protecting the operator and load when driving, turning, and lifting. SAS provides advanced technology increasing safety and improving productivity.

The new 24V model also offers a range of options to enhance productivity and efficiency in material handling operations. Two new masts have been added to the new Traigo24 model, the FV and FSV masts, both increasing visibility on fork tips for enhanced productivity but also allowing manoeuvrability in low-ceiling work environments which is a nice add-on to the truck’s compactness.

Moreover, powerful front and rear LED lights are now available as options on this new electric forklift guaranteeing safer operation in dark areas but also reducing energy consumption.

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