Sidelifter
Definition:
A sidelifter is a specially equipped truck or semi-trailer that is used to transport, pick up and drop off ISO containers.
It has hydraulic lifting arms that can pick up containers sideways, lift them onto the vehicle and drop them onto the ground at their destination or transfer them to other vehicles.
Sidelifter enable loading and unloading without a terminal crane, reach stacker or loading dock and thus offer a high level of flexibility — especially at customer sites without specialized container infrastructure.
Typical areas of application:
- Transport logistics & container distribution
- Construction & assembly projects
- Industrial & production sites without container cranes
- Port-related and inland logistics
- Intermodal handling areas
Key benefits:
- Loading and unloading without additional lifting equipment
- Time and cost efficiency at decentralized locations
- Precise positioning and transfer of containers
Technical variants
Sidelifters can move 20, 40, or 45-foot containers and often carry out “truck-to-truck” or “truck-to-rail” transfers. Load capacity typically up to ~36 tons.
Safety requirements
Safe stands, support systems, load stability and maintenance of working space for the lifting arm are important.
Sources/further links:
Container Handbook — Container Handling Equipment: https://www.containerhandbuch.de/
Hammar Sidelifter Manufacturer Information (technical basis): https://www.hammar.com/
ISO container standards (ISO 668/ISO 3874): https://www.iso.org
Challenges when using side loaders:
Increased requirements for floor space & stability
For safe operation, sidelifters require sufficient space and sturdy floor surfaces. Inadequate room information leads to delays and risks.
Sources/further links:
HSE UK — Safe Container Lifting Guidelines: https://www.hse.gov.uk/
Specification and compatibility knowledge required
Drivers need to know whether container dimensions, weights and load distribution are supported at the site — errors lead to damage or inefficient use.
Sources/further links:
Container Handbook — Container Loads & Handling: https://www.containerhandbuch.de/
Loady's solution:
Transparent location requirements for page loader usage
Loady allows you to specify whether sidelifters are allowed or required at the site and which parking spaces, weight limits or safety areas apply.
Clear navigation & process information for decentralized handling areas
GPS coordinates and digital instructions provide drivers with clear guidelines on access routes, parking areas and security zones — particularly when handling container shipments that are not bound to the terminal.
