In Combined Transport, “Newcomers” Are Gaining Importance

Intermodal freight transport is a central lever for achieving European climate goals, as it contributes to shifting truck traffic to more environmentally friendly modes of transport such as rail, waterways, or short-sea shipping. More and more operators are relying on crane-less handling technologies. The intermodal logistics consultancy KombiConsult provides an overview.

(Frankfurt) Horizontal handling technologies without cranes are increasingly establishing themselves as an interesting alternative in intermodal transport and apparently offer advantages on certain routes. The choice of handling technology plays a crucial role in optimizing transport efficiency and cost advantages. While traditional vertical systems with cranes and reach stackers continue to be the most commonly used option – as highlighted by the European Commission’s study “Comparative Evaluation of Transhipment Technologies for Intermodal Transport and Their Cost” – horizontal handling technologies that operate “without cranes,” such as Modalohr, Cargobeamer, and Helrom, have gained significance in recent years in specific cases.

No Special Crane Infrastructure Required

For non-craneable loading units such as semi-trailers, these technologies promise an efficient solution, as they do not require special crane infrastructure. Especially on routes that demand quick loading or in regions without conventional transshipment terminals, the mostly side-accessible horizontal systems can represent a real alternative. In addition to simplified infrastructure, some of these systems also offer more flexibility in loading dimensions due to their wagon technology. On the other hand, the choice of technology also manifests the transport provider, while competition is possible at universal terminals.

The potential of these “newcomers” should therefore be analyzed and evaluated on suitable routes. By precisely defining the requirements of individual markets, appropriate handling solutions can be identified and compared. Factors such as transport volume, available equipment (craneable/non-craneable), connection frequency, and the technical and spatial possibilities on-site play a decisive role. The fundamental comparison parameters must be specifically adapted to the requirements of the respective route to create a solid decision-making basis. This is also emphasized by the company KombiConsult in the mentioned study, which supports authorities and companies in developing a better understanding of the appropriate transport solution on-site.

Not All Handling Technologies Are the Same

“You can’t lump all handling technologies together,” emphasizes KombiConsult Managing Director Uwe Sondermann. “Each technology has its own strengths and weaknesses that must be individually matched with market requirements. Ultimately, it is also about making the best use of taxpayer money.”

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