THE SIDELIFTER is fast gaining ground as an innovative means of reducing shipping costs. It is a self-contained system that includes a flat-bed trailer equipped with cranes to lift both six and twelve-metre containers. “Our sole focus is to reduce shipping cost by minimising handling,” says Niel Döckel , MD of Stone Gecko Investment Holdings. “We own and operate our own equipment and supply our service to any individual or business that requires the placement of containers onto the ground instead of the normal on-trailer delivery.” And Döckel believes that the Sidelifter provides the most versatile, mobile, quick and safe way of moving a container. “It has unique self loading and off-loading capability, is able to load full loads, and unlocks huge potential in hub and spoke supply chain service delivery.” He describes the equipment as “a link in the chain of mobile warehousing.” “The ship, train and truck all form part of this chain. Big importers like BMW, Mercedes and VW take into stock the contents of their containers the minute they are packed at the factories in Germany. The lead time till arrival on site in SA is taken into account. This has benefits like reduced warehousing capacity, with less capital tied into stock and better control and ownership of their stock.” He says importers and exporters can integrate the packing into their production line or distribution chain. “This obviates the need for loading docks and greatly reduces the need for scarce warehouse space and related double handling. “Working at ground level is both faster and safer and reduces the potential for accidents to workers and damage to cargo.”
