In the third quarter of 2023, Chiquita Guatemala took delivery of the first two Konecranes reachstackers for their Terminal Ferroviaria located in Puerto Barrios.
The remaining third reachstacker is expected to be delivered in 2024, completing the trio that will significantly enhance Chiquita’s banana business operations.
“We are leaders in the tropical fruit market. To maintain our position, we need the best quayside equipment available. Konecranes offered us reach stackers that are already improving our efficiency, simplifying our processes and lowering our costs. Once all three are on-site, their high performance and advanced systems will further streamline our operations,” stated Ramses Lobo Ortiz, regional manager of Logistics at Chiquita.
According to the statement, renowned globally for its bananas, Chiquita operates within Puerto Barrios, a crucial regional distribution centre. Given the high volumes and strict time constraints necessary to maintain freshness, Chiquita requires modern and dependable container handling equipment capable of near-continuous operation, almost around the clock.
“These reachstackers represent a new stage in our partnership with Chiquita as they employ the latest in lifting technology. State-of-the-art digital features will help Chiquita maintain their strong position in a highly competitive industry,” added Paco Pruden, product support manager Americas, Lift Trucks, Konecranes.
The initial two reachstackers, namely the Konecranes SMV 4632 TC5 and the Konecranes SMV 4632 TC6H, have already been deployed at the site. The third unit, a Konecranes Liftace 4532 TCE5, is currently en route and expected to arrive shortly. By incorporating three distinct models, Chiquita enhances its operational adaptability, enabling swift adjustments to evolving conditions within the terminal.
“As a regional distributor for Konecranes Lift Trucks in Central America and the Caribbean, we have a long history of cooperation with Chiquita. We will continue to provide timely after-sales service and spare parts for these new deliveries,” commented Eric Gentzschein, director at Genar Inc.
All three vehicles are equipped with Smart Connected Lift Trucks technology, enabling TRUCONNECT® Remote Monitoring to gather usage and functional diagnostics data. This data is utilized to enhance safety protocols, optimize operational performance, streamline maintenance processes, and minimize environmental impact.
Furthermore, Tire Pressure Monitoring systems issue alerts in response to pressure fluctuations, contributing to fuel conservation efforts and prolonging tire longevity. Additionally, the Konecranes Static Weighing System, compliant with Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) regulations, eliminates the necessity for a separate scale, thereby accelerating operational procedures.
