Plain sailing with new stacker

P&O operates a combined freight and passenger service from Liverpool to Dublin, with three Ro-Ro (Roll-on Roll-off) ferries making the crossing from Gladstone dock in Bootle, Liverpool, to Dublin every day.

Containers are transferred using a reach stacker onto P&O’s own shipping trailers. These trailers with their containers are then loaded onto the vessels.

An existing reach stacker truck (RST) was nearing the end of its life, so the ferry operator approached Kalmar who recommended the Gloria RST.

Following discussions with Kalmar, port manager Charlie Worthington and senior P&O RST operators were given an on-site demonstration of the solution at the Port of Felixstowe in Kent.

Worthington explained: "We had purchased Kalmar machines before and were happy with what they could provide. We have a good relationship with Kalmar, and went down to Felixstowe with an open mind.”

He believes it was very worthwhile seeing a truck in a working environment, particularly for the drivers. "They really enjoyed the opportunity to see if Gloria was as good as they’d been told.”

P&O subsequently took delivery of a single reach stacker truck, Gloria

"Kalmar understood our operations and needs well. They believed in the product they were selling and had no qualms about its reliability,” said Worthington. Since its delivery, the Gloria reach stacker has increased efficiency and productivity at Gladstone dock, boosting driver morale and engagement too.

"The truck is much more manoeuvrable, and drivers get a boost from using it. We’ve provided them with better tools for the job, so they’re happier, more engaged and do the work properly. We have no hesitation recommending Kalmar and its good service.”