Mobicon Systems took the container handling industry by storm in 2023. Being the only company in the world specialising in light-weight straddle carriers results in a far superior product - and word’s getting out. 2023 was a record-breaking year for Mobicon Systems, selling more units than ever in its 29-year history, as well as growth in every team and manufacturing base. Importantly, we doubled the size of the engineering department to support R&D projects, ensuring we continue to provide innovative machines of the highest quality. We’re also training up the next generation of Mobicon engineers, with the addition of engineering cadets. With mechatronics and mechanical engineering majors, we’re looking forward to seeing what fresh and original ideas emerge from within our R&D team.
Following the release of our second generation 2HL model in 2022, demand for these high-quality units soared. Customers love the remarkably low axle loads and the unique hydraulic lifting system that the Mobicon employs instead of wire ropes. The 2HL is also beginning to make waves in new industries which haven’t traditionally used straddle carriers to handle their materials.
Meanwhile, the Mobicon 2T is proving it isn’t just for containers by quickly becoming the preferred unit for handling steel reinforcement on flatracks. A key feature of the 2T is its method of lifting flatracks from the bottom with fixed arms, not chains, meaning the flatrack cannot swing. Another new safety and efficiency feature on all our light-weight straddle carriers is the twist-lock system which allows the coupling of the container/flatrack can be done from within the cabin. The 35% gains in efficiency and greater employee safety, combined with optimising yard storage capacity, make the 2T an easy choice for this niche market.
As well as supplying our local Australian and New Zealand market, Mobicon Systems delivered machines to Europe, the UK, and the US. Our long-term partnership with AUSTAL continued with the ongoing supply of our custom designed LCS model to the US Navy. These innovative units have 8-wheel steering, 8-wheel drive, can widen with the touch of a button, and host four steering systems, allowing them to crab-steer and turn on a dime.
By mid-2023 we expanded operations into North America. To support the potential we’ve seen in this market, Mobicon Systems’ CEO, Jesse Schultz relocated to Houston, Texas. The move allows Mobicon Systems to sustainably grow US and Canadian sales through carefully selected dealer networks; while also ensuring our clients receive the gold standard of after sales care that Mobicon Systems is renowned for, with local support, and fast, quality service. America is welcoming the light-weight straddle carriers as a long-needed solution to their logistics issues. Some 2HL units have already been delivered, with more on their way in 2024.
The Mobicon rental fleet continues to grow and consists of new, and quality refurbished units. The fleet gives clients access to all the benefits of a Mobicon without the financing and capex issues. The fleet also provides potential customers with a trial option to experience the various improvements a Mobicon brings and determine how to best use it within their operations. The other important need the fleet meets is providing a bridging rental whilst a client’s permanent units are manufactured.
We finished 2023 on a high note with the Department of Home Affairs again purchasing a large number of Mobicons to support their container examination facilities. We are incredibly pleased with the confidence the Australian Government has placed in Mobicon Systems for the last 20 years in supporting this critical operation.
Looking ahead to 2024
With our 30th anniversary approaching in 2024, it is looking to be our most exciting year yet. We look forward to the release of the latest line of light-weight Mobicon units (watch this space), plus the development of new attachments for our models which respond to specific lifting issues in our key verticals. We’ll also continue to strengthen and support our ties in North America, the UK and Europe, grow our Australian-based team, and reinforce partnerships with our global customers, suppliers, and dealers.