Zuidnatie credits support from dealer Barloworld Handling for its new order.

Zuidnatie has ordered seven low-emission, high-capacity Hyster forklifts after the successful introduction of two Tier 4i/Stage IIIB-compliant Hyster empty container handlers at the Port of Antwerp.

"The new empty container handlers are extremely quiet," says Chris van der Werdt, sales manager for Hyster Big Trucks. "They have low exhaust emissions and are painted in Zuidnatie's corporate green."

In 2011, port and logistics company Zuidnatie introduced two Hyster H22-12EC empty container handlers to its operation in Antwerp, Belgium. The machines feature the Tier 4i/ Stage IIIB Cummins QSB 6.7 engine and include performance optimisation developments to reduce fuel consumption.

Zuidnatie has credited support from local Hyster dealer Barloworld Handling and the performance of the Hyster equipment at the container terminal for its new order.

The new trucks will have over 16 T lift capacity, include Tier 4i/Stage IIIB engines and other energy-efficiency features, and use Exhaust Gas Recirculation technology, so the operators can fill the fuel tanks as normal.

The new fleet also includes two H18XM-12 forklifts with 18 T lift capacities, also powered by the Cummins 6.7 engine. Zuidnatie also ordered H25XM-12 forklifts with 25 T capacity and an H32XM-12 forklift with 32 T lift capacity.

The high-capacity forklifts will be used in the port operation where steel and non-ferrous metals are received, stored, repacked and distributed through the road or rail networks.

Founded in 1870, Zuidnatie has expanded significantly over 142 years, now providing a full range of services including stevedoring, logistics, transport, warehousing, customs department and container department, across various industry sectors.

The value of the order is confidential.