The Port Authority of Guam has accepted five new Hyundai 50DA-9 forklifts which will be used for cargo operations at the island’s only commercial seaport.

The Port Authority says the forklifts “are equipped with advanced capabilities, enabling them to handle a wide range of materials efficiently, including heavy cargo and palletised goods".

“Their versatility and manoeuvrability ensure that the port can meet the demands of modern shipping operations and improve the speed and safety of cargo handling,” the port states.

Valued at USD 352,015, the forklifts represent the last batch of modernisation equipment acquired by the Port Authority under a grant received from the US Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration’s (MARAD) America’s Marine Highway Program. 

In total, the Port Authority has spent USD8.48 million on new equipment, with the grant accounting for USD5.7 million of that.

“These five forklifts are going straight to work,” Port Authority of Guam general manager Rory Respicio says. “Just like the two 40T loaded container handlers, three 10T empty container handlers, 180 ft. (55m) boom lift, nine yard tractors, and two 40-plug mobile reefer generators we’ve brought in over the past two years.

“We’ve been very judicious with our spending. We buy new when we need to, used when it makes sense, and we always look to MARAD programs to help fund these major purchases that support our critical infrastructure needs. We thank MARAD tremendously for continuing to support the Port’s modernisation.”