Two major signings

The company chose to develop its range of heavy equipment as demand for the specialist trucks continues to grow year-on-year from customers in the ports, paper and third party logistics industries.

The new agreement will see Impact Handling and its UK-wide network of strategic dealer partners supplying customers with the full range of MAFI trucks – including distribution tractors and RoRo tractors– and Carer’s electric forklifts ranging from 6-45 tonnes.

Impact Handling MD Terry Kendrew says: “As port and heavy applications continue to become more active in the UK, demand from customers for equipment to help them keep up with this growth is essential. By adding the MAFI range to our portfolio we’re able to offer customers high performing and reliable tractors for transportation which complement our already extensive range of materials handling solutions and provide greater choice for operators.

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“The introduction of the Carer range is another really exciting development for us, as these forklifts bridge the gap in the market for a heavy duty truck with zero emissions. The new machines are built to incredibly high specifications and we are looking forward to seeing them perform well for our customers in a range of demanding environments. We see the trend for the use of large electric machines, predominately seen in mainland Europe coming to the UK in the not too distant future.”

MAFI’s product range includes diesel tractors with hydraulically elevating fifth wheels for in-plant transportation in ports, industry, and distribution. The tractors are available for a fifth wheel lifting capacity from 25 to 45 tonnes; plus its flagship heavy-duty model is designed for steel mills and special port operations, such as the transportation of SECU intermodal containers, as popular at Immingham and Tilbury docks in the UK.

Unlike traditional electric trucks the Carer models offer a compact design which allows them to compete with IC powered trucks in this sector. Traditional electric machines can require frequent battery changes, but the high performance Carer machines are all fitted with large batteries giving them an excellent charge life and power from 96-120 volts. With low maintenance costs and a long running life, the machines make up one of the most competitive electric ranges on the market.

Impact Handling believes the new line-ups will be popular with its customer base and has a number of demonstrator models available, which will allow customers to see first-hand the benefits of the new products.

Impact Handling’s 150-plus service engineers are already experienced at working on heavy-duty lift trucks, and the company holds multiple service contracts with UK-based ports. It has supported its new venture with specific MAFI and Carer training, and a comprehensive review of its parts stockholding.