Barloworld has added new energy-efficient equipment to its 'Port Centric' range, including large-capacity Hyster container handling trucks.

Barloworld Handling has expanded its range of solutions to UK ports, terminals and freight logistics operations, and is giving free advice to help companies cut costs as volumes grow.

"Rising fuel costs and EU emissions regulations are affecting the use of container handling equipment," says Mike Parkin, ports and terminals sales manager for Barloworld Handling.

"With container volumes predicted to grow over the next few years, ports and freight terminal operations are highly motivated to review options that lead to improved efficiency and carbon reductions," Parkin explains.

The UK Department of Transport says rail freight has expanded by 60% over the last decade and is expected to grow by a further 30% by 2019.

Barloworld Handling's national team of ports and terminals specialists is offering advice and a comprehensive site survey of any operation's materials handling needs. Through sophisticated materials mapping and 3D simulation software, the company can test different scenarios before investment is made.

"The analysis helps ensure the right mix of equipment is chosen according to the operators' current and future capacity needs," Parkin says. "We can also provide fuel and carbon emission projections to help customers understand the total cost of ownership."

Barloworld has added new energy-efficient equipment to its 'Port Centric' range, including large-capacity Hyster container handling trucks, forklifts, electric warehousing equipment and specialist equipment like terminal tractors and sideloaders.

"Many companies are looking for experienced providers that can supply, support and manage a whole fleet," Parkin says. "Barloworld provides the flexibility to work alongside a customer's own onsite mechanics or provide fully planned maintenance through its national team of ports and terminals trained engineers."

The Hyster range of heavy-capacity trucks over 16 T supplied by Barloworld, including reach stackers, has been upgraded with significant energy-saving technology to ensure compliance with the Tier 4 interim, Stage IIIB emissions legislation, and to deliver fuel savings of up to 20%.