What is a Straddle Carrier?

A mobile gantry crane on wheels that literally straddles shipping containers. Think of it as a massive metal spider with legs that can walk over and pick up containers from above - lifting them between its legs for transport around ports and container terminals.

Key Features and Benefits

• Straddle Design: Four tall legs (typically 10-15m high) create a tunnel underneath - container fits perfectly between them while the machine drives over it
• Self-Loading: No need for separate cranes - hooks down, grabs container, lifts it up into its belly
• Stack High: Can stack containers 3-4 high (some models up to 5), maximising yard space
• Speed: Travels 20-30 km/h loaded - way faster than forklifts for long port distances
• Flexibility: Can feed containers directly to cranes, trucks, or stack them - one machine, multiple jobs
• Diesel Power: Heavy-duty diesel engines handle 30-60 tonne loads all day

Considerations

• Container Standards: Built specifically for ISO containers (20ft, 40ft, 45ft) - won't handle non-standard cargo
• Weather Limits: High winds can stop operations - tall profile makes them unstable in storms
• Surface Requirements: Need reinforced concrete - these beasts weigh 50-70 tonnes empty
• Width Clearance: Need 6m+ lane width - those legs spread wide
• Capital Cost: Million-dollar machines - serious investment compared to reach stackers
• Operator Height: Cab sits 10-15m up - not for those uncomfortable with heights
• Maintenance: Complex hydraulics, diesel engines, spreaders - need dedicated workshop facilities

Perfect for high-volume container terminals where speed and stacking density matter more than initial cost.