As the citrus season looms on the horizon, Durban Container Terminals (DCT) is gearing up with the arrival of new equipment. With the first batch of 10 fully-assembled haulers already on-site, the port is poised for a seamless transition into one of South Africa’s busiest export periods.
According to Transnet Port Terminals (TPT), Malaysia’s Terberg Tractors will deliver another 25 haulers by mid-April 2024, with the final batch of 10 scheduled for the end of May 2024. These haulers play a crucial role in vessel loading and offloading operations, facilitating the movement of containers with precision and efficiency.
The allocation of equipment across DCT Pier 1 and DCT Pier 2 ensures optimal utilization, with 23 haulers assigned to Pier 1 and 22 to Pier 2. This strategic distribution enhances the terminal’s operational capacity and contributes to overall efficiency gains.
Earle Peters, the Managing Executive at Durban Terminals, expressed gratitude to customers for their support in identifying and procuring this essential equipment. He highlighted the significance of industry collaboration in driving improvements and meeting operational demands.
The haulers come with a 12-month warranty, backed by Terberg as the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) through a seven-year partnership. In addition to the haulers, the terminals will also receive four reach stackers and five empty container handlers by the end of May 2024, marking progress in the fleet replacement plan.
Despite the familiarity of operators with similar equipment, each will undergo a day of familiarization to ensure seamless integration and optimal utilization of the newer models. This proactive approach underscores Durban Port’s commitment to safety and operational excellence.
As Durban Port prepares to embark on the citrus season with enhanced capabilities, the arrival of new equipment signals a promising start to a period of increased activity and productivity. With a focus on efficiency and customer satisfaction, the port remains poised to meet the demands of global trade.
Source: KZN Industrial News