Container handling showdown: Swing Lifter vs. Combi-CSS

Container handling showdown: Swing Lifter vs. Combi-CSS

In logistics and material handling, picking the right equipment can mean the difference between smooth operations and costly setbacks. When it comes to the safe handling of containers, swing lifters have long been renowned for their efficiency. But a new player in the market is changing how containers are loaded and unloaded, challenging the conventional use of swing lifters.

According to Chris Littlewood, Country Manager for Combilift in Australia, the company’s Container Slip Sheet (Combi-CSS) is becoming a preferred option for many businesses handling containers in Australia due to its time saving benefits.

“Since its launch 4 years ago, the Combi-CSS has proven popular in the market due to its advanced design,” says Chris. “The complete container load cycle only takes 6 minutes with the Combi-CSS, enabling the truck and container to swiftly transition to the next task.”

Understanding the differences

Swing lifters and the Combi-CSS serve a similar purpose – the handling of containers – but they do so through different mechanisms. Swing lifters utilise hydraulic arms to lift containers vertically from the truck bed, providing height and reach, making them suitable for stacking containers.

In comparison, the Combi-CSS is specifically designed for the fast loading and unloading of freight containers, utilising a low, free-standing platform, fitted with a dual-directional motor-driven pulling mechanism that moves a steel sheet.

The sheet then guides product out of containers by the mechanism underneath, ensuring safe unloading without any risk of product damage.  A  hydraulic rear barrier gate, which is fixed to the end of the platform, holds the material within the container while the steel sheet is slipped out from underneath it, hence the name, Container Slip Sheet (CSS).

Shipping container challenge in Australia

According to Chris, the primary demand for the Combi-CSS in Australia comes from importers who are keen to unload product quickly and return empty shipping containers back for use.

“In Australia, the shipping container situation is unbalanced. Many containers arrive full, but a substantial number leave the country empty. This is because we tend to export our raw materials and import semi or fully finished products,” says Chris. “What that means is the containers we export in are a different size to the ones we import in. And because of container demand, there are often fees attached to container hire, so many operators are keen to get the containers unloaded as time-efficiently as possible.”

Although the Combi-CSS was initially created for the purpose of loading, Chris says its unloading capabilities make it an attractive choice for Australian importers and exporters alike.

“Given the challenges posed by limited shipping container capacity and the time-sensitive nature of container unloading and that return to the docks, the Combi-CSS emerged as a valuable solution in providing a quick and secure means of unloading freight.”

Safety measures

Safety is essential to any material handling operation, both in terms of the product being moved, and the people working within that space.

Swing lifters offer stability due to their rigid lifting mechanism, reducing the risk of container drops. Additionally, operators benefit from an unobstructed view during operations, minimising the chances of accidents.

What’s unique about the Combi-CSS, however, is that there is no need for workers to enter the container whatsoever. This removes them from potential harm during the loading process.

“By incorporating precise action, safety locks, and laser levelling, the necessity for workers to enter containers during devanning – a requirement with older technology and when employing swing lifters – is eradicated, significantly mitigating the risk of injuries,” says Chris

Efficiency and productivity

Efficiency and productivity are important metrics for any material handling equipment, serving as crucial indicators of operational success and cost-effectiveness.

“When utilising the Combi-CSS technology, the container remains aboard the truck, and by simply opening its doors, aligning the truck with the slip sheeter, and employing the hydraulically controlled steel sheet, the cargo is extracted within minutes.”

Time is money!

One of the most compelling advantages of the Combi-CSS is its potential to yield substantial time and cost benefits.

“By efficiently removing product from containers, the Combi-CSS offers a higher level of independence and ensures a quick turnaround time. This can lead to reduced demurrage fees which are levied when containers are not removed from site within an agreed time frame, having a positive impact on overall operational costs,” highlights Chris.

“Swing lifters, while efficient, might require additional manual adjustments and third-party services, potentially leading to longer handling times and increased expenses.”

Comparison table

By streamlining container loading and unloading, eliminating the need for third-party providers such as those needed when using swing lifters, the Combi-CSS offers a more compelling solution to time-sensitive operations. In contrast, while swing lifters are dependable and adaptable, their ability to minimise handling time and demurrage fees can be impacted by external factors that are hard to control.

“Both swing lifters and the Combi-CSS bring specific advantages to the table. The decision between the two depends on assessing operational requirements, safety, efficiency, and cost savings. But in my opinion, when comparing both pieces of equipment, the Combi-CSS has the upper hand.”

Chris concludes, “If you’re looking for a solution that excels in efficiency, carries no capacity restrictions, and boasts a remarkably return on investment, the Combi-CSS is the way to go.”

Interested to learn more about the Combi-CSS. Follow this link to get in touch with a Combilift representative today.