Empty container handlers for efficient container yard operations
Empty container handlers are purpose-built machines designed to move, stack and store empty shipping containers quickly and efficiently. Optimised for speed and manoeuvrability, they enable operators to handle high container volumes while reducing fuel or energy consumption and lowering cost per move.
Used across container terminals, ports, rail yards and inland depots, empty container handlers play a critical role in maintaining efficient yard operations. Their ability to stack containers up to 8+1-high helps maximise storage density while ensuring smooth container flows between ships, trucks and storage areas.
Modern empty container handlers typically offer lifting capacities between 8 and 11 tonnes and combine advanced hydraulic systems with efficient drivetrains to deliver fast cycle times without unnecessary energy use. Load-sensing hydraulics optimise lifting power based on the container weight, improving both efficiency and productivity in daily operations..
As terminals move towards more sustainable operations, electric empty container handlers are becoming increasingly important. These models deliver zero emissions at source, lower energy costs and reduced maintenance, while still providing the power and performance required for demanding container logistics operations.
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Our Offering
Electric Empty Container Handler ECG90-110
Electric Empty Container Handler ECG70
Empty Container Handler DCG80-110
Essential Empty Container Handler DCU80-100
Loaded Container Handler
Kalmar Services
Empty Container Handler range and use cases
Kalmar offers one of the industry's broadest ranges of empty container handlers, with diesel and electric models designed for different yard layouts, throughput requirements and sustainability goals. Whether you need a cost-efficient machine for everyday operations or a high-performance electric solution for intensive container handling, there is a model to match your application.
ECG90–110 Electric Empty Container Handler
Best for: High-throughput terminals pursuing ambitious sustainability targets.
- Available in 9–11 tonne configurations.
- Single and double stacking models available.
- Stack containers up to 8+1 high.
- Battery options up to 400kWh with rapid charging capability.
- Zero tailpipe emissions with performance comparable to conventional diesel machines.
- Regenerative braking and highly efficient electric driveline technologies help reduce operating costs.
Ideal for: Large container terminals and logistics operators looking to reduce emissions without compromising productivity.
ECG70 Electric Empty Container Handler
Best for: Operators taking their first step towards electrification.
- 7 tonne lifting capacity.
- Stack containers up to 4-high.
- Zero emissions at source and significantly lower energy costs.
- Up to 50% lower maintenance costs thanks to fewer moving parts.
- Quiet operation, making it suitable for urban and noise-sensitive locations.
Ideal for: Smaller depots, intermodal operations and sites where noise and emissions reduction are priorities.
DCG80–110 Empty Container Handler
Best for: High-volume container yards that require maximum flexibility and performance.
- Available in single and double stacker configurations from 8–11 tonnes.
- Stack containers up to 8+1 high.
- Choice of medium- and high-performance driveline packages.
- Available with multiple spreader configurations, cabin layouts and mast heights.
- Built for demanding operations with high productivity and lower cost per move.
Ideal for: Large container terminals, ports and logistics hubs handling high daily container volumes.
DCU80–100 Essential Empty Container Handler
Best for: Cost-conscious operations looking for proven performance and reliability.
- Available with 8, 9 and 10 tonne lifting capacities.
- Stack empty containers up to 8-high.
- Built on Kalmar's proven G-Generation platform with common controls and components across the range.
- Load-sensing hydraulics improve lifting efficiency and reduce fuel consumption.
- Easy maintenance with accessible service points and industry-leading service intervals.
Ideal for: Inland depots, regional ports and operators seeking the lowest acquisition cost while maintaining productivity and uptime.
Which empty container handler is right for your operation?
- Choose the ECG90–110 electric range when you want the performance of a modern terminal machine combined with zero emissions at source.
- Choose the ECG70 when reducing emissions and operating costs is more important than maximum stacking height.
- Choose the DCG80–110 range when you need maximum flexibility, lifting performance and container throughput.
- Choose the DCU80–100 Essential range when affordability, simplicity and reliability are your priorities.
Why choose Kalmar empty container handlers?
- High stacking performance up to 8+1 containers
- Proven reliability with thousands of machines in operation
- Efficient drivetrains and optimised hydraulics for lower operating costs
- Ergonomic cabins designed for operator comfort and safety
- Full range of electric and diesel solutions to support sustainability goals
Have you checked that your forklifts fulfil EN 1175:2020 safety standards?
At Kalmar, the safety of people working with our machines is always at the top of our minds, which is why meeting global safety standards is important to us.The safety standard EN 1175:2020, which sets the electrical and electronic component standards for industrial trucks, has been updated to improve the safety of these machines while in operation, this update is valid from April 2023.
All Kalmar counter balanced machines, including reachstackers, empty container handlers and forklifts have been updated to meet this new standard to ensure that working with a Kalmar machine is as safe as it can be.
FAQ: Empty container handlers
What is an empty container handler?
An empty container handler is a machine designed specifically for handling and stacking empty containers in container yards and terminals.
What is the difference between empty and loaded container handlers?
Empty container handlers are built for lighter loads and higher stacking efficiency, while loaded container handlers are designed to lift heavy, loaded containers.
How high can empty container handlers stack containers?
They can typically stack containers up to 8 high, or 8+1 in double stacking configurations.
What lifting capacity do empty container handlers have?
Most models offer lifting capacities between 8 and 11 tonnes depending on configuration.
Where are empty container handlers used?
They are commonly used in ports, container terminals, rail yards, inland depots and logistics centres.
Are electric empty container handlers suitable for heavy operations?
Yes, modern electric models provide strong lifting performance with instant torque and are suitable for high-volume terminal operations.
What are the benefits of electric empty container handlers?
They offer zero emissions at source, lower operating costs, reduced maintenance and quieter operation.
How do empty container handlers improve efficiency?
They increase stacking density, reduce handling time and optimise yard operations with faster and more efficient container movement.
Looking for loaded container handlers?
If your operations require lifting heavy, fully loaded containers, you may need a different type of equipment. Loaded container handlers (top loaders) are designed for higher lifting capacities and heavier loads, offering the power and stability required for demanding applications.
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