Reachstackers

A reachstacker is a type of industrial vehicle used for handling cargo, primarily shipping containers, in ports, rail yards, and large distribution centers. Its defining feature is a telescopic boom with a specialized attachment called a spreader, which can grip and lift containers from the top. This design allows the reachstacker to stack containers higher than many other types of lifting equipment, increasing storage capacity in congested areas.

Reachstackers offer significant maneuverability, capable of moving containers both horizontally and vertically with precision. They are typically equipped with a diesel engine and can be fitted with various attachments beyond container spreaders, such as lifting hooks or coil rams, expanding their versatility. The operator's cabin is usually elevated, providing excellent visibility of the working area.

Compared to other container handling equipment like straddle carriers or gantry cranes, reachstackers are often chosen for their flexibility and relatively lower capital cost. They are well-suited for operations that involve a mix of container stacking and road truck loading or unloading. Their ability to pick up containers from the ground, stack them, and then place them onto trucks or rail cars makes them a crucial component in modern logistics and freight handling.