Steinweg recently took a significant step towards sustainability with the purchase of no less than 121 electric forklifts from Motrac, a supplier of high-quality Linde forklifts. With this investment, we have demonstrated not just our commitment to environmentally conscious business practices, but also to improving the working conditions of our employees.
In this article, we share the insights of various people involved with this transition. Maarten Vaandrager, Sales Director at Motrac, discusses the long-term partnership between Steinweg and Motrac, the advisory role of Motrac and the benefits of the new generation of electric forklifts. Patrick Buitendijk, Terminal Manager at Steinweg, explains the impact of the new electric forklifts on daily operations and the benefits for employees. Martin de Baat, Truck Maintenance Service Manager at Steinweg, describes how his team will maintain the new forklifts, as well as the technical challenges and benefits.
Partnership and support from Motrac
In an interview, Maarten Vaandrager emphasised the strong partnership between Steinweg and Motrac. “Steinweg and Motrac have a long history of working together,” says Maarten. “We supply Steinweg with forklifts and pallet trucks and make a significant contribution to their fleet management, including by leasing trucks during peak moments.”
One important aspect of our recent partnership was energy. Maarten explains: “Steinweg aims to phase out fossil fuels. Thanks to the new generation of Linde electric forklifts, they can take a major step towards reaching that goal, even in tough environments where they currently use diesel forklifts.” He adds that Steinweg, like many other companies in the port of Rotterdam, was initially sceptical about the prospect of fully switching to electric trucks for external use. “We studied the options for deploying forklifts powered by various fuel types, including hydrogen. A mix of lead acid and lithium-ion batteries ultimately proved to be the best solution.” This recommendation from Motrac was supported by an extensive study of the operational conditions by Motrac and the energy calculator from Linde. This is a tool that shows the energy costs and efficiency of electric forklifts. The results gave a clear picture of the benefits and possibilities of the transition.
Product demonstrations and advice
During the demonstration phase, Motrac showed that the innovative X range from Linde, with a load capacity of 2 to 5 tonnes, has outstanding performance, even in the tough environment of the port of Rotterdam. “We demonstrated new models from Linde on location. These X trucks can match the performance of diesel forklifts and are specifically designed for heavy use, uneven surfaces and dusty environments,” explains Maarten.
Benefits of electric forklifts
Patrick Buitendijk, Terminal Manager at Steinweg’s Beatrix Terminal, explains how the new forklifts will affect working at the terminal. “The introduction of the new electric forklifts will make our working environment much quieter and cleaner. This will not just contribute to a better working environment, but will also have a positive effect on the health of our employees. Eliminating exhaust gases in the warehouses will improve the air quality, which will considerably reduce the health risks.”
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“Less noise and greater comfort”
Patrick explains the benefits for employees: “The greatest benefit is definitely the reduced noise level. Because the electric forklifts are so quiet, communication is easier and the stress caused by constant noise is reduced. The trucks are also ergonomically designed, which considerably improves the comfort and safety of our drivers.”
Maarten emphasises that drivers are often positively surprised by the performance of the electric forklifts. “The drivers are astonished by the power of the electric forklifts. They appreciate the constant power and improved visibility. There’s no vibration or noise, which makes working much more pleasant.”
Comprehensive service from Motrac
As well as supplying forklifts, Motrac also helps Steinweg with other services. “We supply Steinweg with leased forklifts at various locations, so they always have sufficient capacity at peak moments,” explains Maarten. “We also carry out safety inspections on location and provide training for their technical staff.”
Motrac is also helping Steinweg implement Linde’s Connect fleet management system. “Steinweg has opted to install this system on all their mobile equipment to improve the monitoring and management of their fleet. It also provides data about how their trucks are used and the maintenance status.”
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Technical benefits and maintenance
Martin de Baat, head of the Truck Maintenance Service at Steinweg, explains how his team will maintain the new forklifts, as well as the technical benefits. “The most important difference is the absence of an internal combustion engine, which reduces the number of moving parts to be maintained. The electric motors are practically maintenance free, and the hydraulic systems require less frequent inspections and maintenance.”
Martin explains how his team prepared for the arrival of the electric forklifts: “Firstly, all our engineers now have the required certificates. Motrac also provided training on Linde products. Although our maintenance team already had experience with electric vehicles, this training ensured that we are fully familiar with the latest models. We also attended various training courses on working with high voltages and electric vehicles to help us work safely and efficiently with the new forklifts. We also arrange regular meetings and updates, so everyone stays well informed.”
“More time for preventive maintenance”
Martin also mentions the technical challenges: “One of the challenges we face is handling and charging the batteries. To maximise their lifespan, we need to make sure the batteries are charged and maintained efficiently. There’s also the challenge of integrating new technologies, including the fleet management system, which demands new skills.”
The benefits for the maintenance team are clear: “The new electric forklifts are cleaner and simpler to maintain. This means we can spend more time on preventive maintenance and optimisation, rather than repairs. They are also much healthier for our team, as we aren’t exposed to oil and other harmful substances as often.”
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Future position and innovation
Steinweg is leading the way by electrifying their forklift fleet. According to Maarten, this step is both necessary and strategic. “Many port companies in the Netherlands aim to stop using fossil fuels, due to regulations and in the interests of sustainability. With this step, Steinweg has demonstrated our commitment to sustainability and the health of our employees.” Martin emphasises the importance of sustainability for Steinweg: “Sustainability is one of our core values. As a logistics service provider, we understand that we have a responsibility to minimise our environmental footprint. These new forklifts are a perfect solution as part of our drive towards a greener and more sustainable future.”