Maritime Transport boosts container handling capacity with 14 new reach stackers

Maritime Transport, the UK's leading provider of integrated road and rail freight logistics, has ordered
14 new reach stackers from SANY and Kalmar to scale its container handling operations. The €8 million investment will facilitate growing demand for rail freight services and the expansion of Maritime’s intermodal network, with the Strategic Rail Freight Interchange (SRFI) at Northampton Gateway and a new container storage facility at the Port of Liverpool opening later this year.

Cooper Specialised Handling will deliver six SANY reach stackers, including two SRSC4540G models and four H9s, to support operations at Maritime’s recently expanded terminal at East Midlands Gateway, and to the new facilities in Northampton and Liverpool once operational. The H9 is one of the most technologically-advanced products on the market, providing greater visibility, faster lift speeds, and a 20% reduction in fuel consumption.

Simultaneously, two Kalmar Eco reachstackers will be deployed at Maritime’s rail freight terminal in Wakefield, while a further six will be stationed at Hams Hall. Kalmar’s Eco reachstacker uses a much smaller engine than traditional solutions, reducing fuel consumption and emissions without compromising productivity. It also offers an improved overall driving experience with smoother acceleration and less cabin noise.

All 14 reach stackers are set to be delivered over the next two years.

Maritime is actively investing in its intermodal network to promote sustainable modal shift. Northampton Gateway, immediately adjacent to the M1 J15, will accommodate the UK’s longest freight trains, providing commercial occupiers and businesses in the region with new, low carbon freight connections from UK ports and other inland rail terminals. On-site construction of a four-storey, 21,100 sqft office and welfare building is underway, with project completion expected later this year.

In addition to Northampton Gateway, Maritime’s multi-million-pound expansion project at the Port of Liverpool will see its existing transport depot and driver welfare facility increase from four acres to ten, including a new yard for up to 2,000 TEU of loaded and empty container storage.

Maritime was recently appointed as long-term operator of the SRFI at West Midlands Interchange, the UK's largest logistics development. Additionally, the Company has signed an exclusive agreement to develop, lease, and operate Tritax Symmetry’s planned £750 million SRFI at Hinckley National Rail Freight Interchange.

Tom Glenn, National Plant Manager, Maritime Transport:

‘This investment will play an important role in our strategy to accelerate modal shift, facilitating the movement of more cargo by rail as sustainable logistics becomes an increasingly popular and necessary model. SANY and Kalmar machines are renowned for their superior quality performance and reliability, and we’re excited to integrate them across our terminals to ensure our new and existing facilities are operating at their full potential whilst contributing to lower emissions in our operations.’

Peter McCance, Country Director, Kalmar:

‘We are delighted to strengthen our collaboration with Maritime and support them with reducing emissions across their terminal network. The Eco reachstacker represents the next generation of container handling, offering both the agility and the lower environmental footprint essential for modern operations.’

Chris Barnes, UK Sales Director, Cooper Handling Group:

‘Maritime's choice to procure additional units from SANY is a solid vote of confidence in our equipment's ability to drive their ambitious growth plans. As SANY’s largest European customer, Maritime's investment not only demonstrates the performance and reliability of our machinery but also cements our shared commitment to scaling operations sustainably and efficiently.’