3PL Logistics (Third party Logistics) was added to the group’s core operation about ten years ago. This bold diversification to the world of warehousing and transportation saw the company grow from strength to strength and employee numbers have grown massively from 50 to 250.
The Ming Zhang Group, led by director Dato Tan Wai Khan, wanted to keep ahead of the logistics game. They identified the benefits a sidelifter could bring to their haulage business and saw how this type of equipment could improve efficiencies. Ming Zhang Group was introduced to Steelbro with a referral from another organisation, who were impressed by the Steelbro product and its after sales service, led them to approach the New Zealand based company. Large capital equipment decisions are never made lightly, but the group finally decided to choose Steelbro and invested in two SB450 units. They were also able to take advantage of the latest generation of sidelifter unit with improved features.
Designers at Steelbro had recently made enhancements to the standard SB450 sidelifter to further improve the quality, performance and reliability of the unit. The SB450 model had already proved to be a popular choice in Malaysia for transport operators when conditions are extreme and call for a more rugged sidelifter unit with a stronger lifting capacity. According to Steelbro, with the SB450, transfers of containers weighing up to 45 tonnes can be made easily within a safe working envelope.
The new sidelifter units tick a number of boxes for the Ming Zhang Group. According to the group, longevity of the frame, crane and trailer is important; units are robust and well-built and they expect them to have a long life. Being able to lift 45 tonnes is another advantage. Operators find them easily manoeuvrable and can double stack containers easily and safely. Operators also expressed how impressed they were with the many safety features, efficient hydraulic system as well as the ability to lift 2 x 20’ containers as an option.
The new units have proved invaluable for staging and shunting and for container rescue operations. The units are being used to transport tanktainers as well as the standard 20’ and 40’ containers, and mainly for short haul journeys.
Enhanced features of the new generation models include aluminium mudguards and LED tail bar, additional safety features with LED emergency beacon light and LED rear licence lamp as well as 4 extra LED working lights for night operation.
Additional decals have also been added for safety on the road plus rear control box offering double protection for safety and theft.
The unit features the latest V2403 Kubota engine with higher HP and improved performance. The engine offers better mileage and less down time with OEM approved long life coolant and premium grade engine oil. It has been designed with a metal cover for radiator and fan offering extra protection.
Light weight durable lifting chains are included for heavy duty operation, there are smart leg sensor for safety and stability as well as proportional landing legs with reinforced support.
Steelbro work hard to ensure the life of the product long after the unit is sold. They ensure the reliability and lifetime of all Steelbro sidelifters with genuine parts and expert maintenance.
A range of genuine Steelbro spare parts are available for current Steelbro product lines. Damaged items are easily replaced and steel fabricated parts can be made to order.
Maintenance and repair work are expertly managed by the Steelbro team. They also offer repair and maintenance contracts (RNM) for all new and existing units.
Training certified operator training is delivered by Steelbro trainers for new sidelifter purchases as well as refresher training on request.
Steelbro offer a trade-in and refurbishment service to ensure the customer’s fleet is always running at optimum efficiency.
Steelbro provides a nationwide network of workshop-based services plus 24/7 mobile support within the Central Region to support regular servicing and help ensure the cost-effective running of customer’s sidelifter equipment.
Finally, to provide peace of mind, the Steelbro sidelifter is backed up by a 36-month warranty on crane structure. Steelbro components are sourced from internationally recognised manufacturers ensuring commitment to quality, availability and support worldwide.
First published in Asian Trucker Issue 53.
