Konecranes Lift Trucks has entered into a new distributor agreement with Toyota Material Handling Solutions covering Southern California, with a special focus on the busy Los Angeles–Long Beach logistics corridor.

Representing a broad portfolio of material handling equipment, Toyota Material Handling Solutions brings more than 50 years of extensive experience in demanding industrial and logistics operations. Its strong technical capabilities and service workshops provide a solid foundation for representing Konecranes Lift Trucks across the region. A recipient of Toyota’s 2024 and 2025 President’s Award, Toyota Material Handling Solutions is recognized among the top North American Toyota forklift dealers for excellence in customer satisfaction, parts, service, equipment sales, finance, and overall operations.

The new partnership expands sales activities and supports the rollout of electric forklift solutions, with customer demonstrationsplanned as part of upcoming industry events. Toyota Material Handling Solutions will play a central role in advancing the electrification of operator fleets in California as well as provide local service.

Through Toyota Material Handling Solutions, customers in Southern California will have local access to Konecranes lift trucks built for demanding logistics operations, combining high performance with robust safety features and ergonomic design. TRUCONNECT® Remote Monitoring adds real-time equipment insights that support preventive service planning, helping maximize uptime throughout the truck lifecycle.

“Konecranes Lift Trucks offers a strong and reliable portfolio that complements our existing capabilities very well. We look forward to introducing these products to customers moving towards more efficient and lower operational emission material handling,” says Anthony Spano, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Toyota Material Handling Solutions.

The agreement is part of Konecranes Lift Trucks’ continued investment in its global distributor network, which plays a central role in delivering local expertise and lifecycle support to customers worldwide.

“Expanding our sales and service presence in California is anotherimportant step in securing our position in key logistics corridors across the globe. With Toyota Material Handling Solutions, we gain a strong partner with deep market knowledge and the technical capabilities needed to grow our business in this important US market,” says Paco Pruden, Regional Director Americas at Konecranes Lift Trucks.

TRADE PRESS RELEASE

This agreement is part of Ecolifting, Konecranes’ comprehensive step-by-step roadmap to zero tailpipe emissions that supports the decarbonization of port operations. Our solutions range from renewable diesel-powered drives, to hybrid and fully-electrified fleets, and emerging options like hydrogen, all designed to meet the needs of each customer today and for the future.

A strong focus on customers and commitment to business growth and continuous improvement make Konecranes a material handling industry leader. This is underpinned by investments in digitalization and technology, plus our work to make material flows more efficient with solutions that support the decarbonization of the economy and advance circularity and safety.

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PORTAGE, Ind., May 1, 2026 – On Thursday, April 23, the Northwest Indiana Forum and Ports of Indiana welcomed an international delegation representing 10 countries and provinces to the Ports of Indiana – Burns Harbor, highlighting the region’s growing role in global trade, logistics, and industrial development.

The visit was conducted in partnership with the Chicago International Trade Commissioners’ Association (CITCA) and the Québec Government Office in Chicago. Delegates participated in a guided tour of the port, gaining firsthand insight into its scale, multimodal connectivity, and economic impact.

The program began with welcome remarks from Port Director Ryan McCoy, followed by a comprehensive tour of the Burns Harbor facility. The agenda continued with a series of presentations highlighting Northwest Indiana’s competitive advantages and strategic priorities. Heather Ennis, President & CEO of the Northwest Indiana Forum, provided an overview of the region’s economic landscape, with emphasis on emerging initiatives in quantum computing, defense, and data center development.

Additional presentations underscored the region’s integrated approach to global competitiveness. Dan Vicari, Executive Director of the Gary/Chicago International Airport, highlighted the airport’s international access and foreign trade zone capabilities. Lisa Daugherty, President & CEO of the Center of Workforce Innovations, shared insights on workforce development efforts designed to meet the needs of a growing economy. Dexter Salenda, Foreign Trade and Economic Development Director for the Ports of Indiana, presented on emerging shipping container initiatives that further strengthen the region’s logistics infrastructure.

“Québec is Indiana’s second largest Canadian trading partner, with bilateral trade totaling $3.1 billion USD,” said Jean François Hould, Chief Representative for the Government of Québec in the Midwest. “Northwest Indiana is strategically positioned within North American trade corridors, as the Ports of Indiana Container Project and the Gary Chicago International Airport expansion align with major logistics investments in Montréal and Québec City, strengthening globally competitive cross-border supply chains.”

Together, the tour and presentations reinforced Northwest Indiana’s position as a logistics and industrial hub—strategically investing in infrastructure and talent to compete on a global stage. Notably, the Ports of Indiana – Burns Harbor provides direct access from the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean, offering global reach from the heart of the Midwest.

For more information about Northwest Indiana’s economic development initiatives, visit the Northwest Indiana Forum at www.nwiforum.org. To learn more about the Chicago International Trade Commissioners’ Association, visit www.citca.org. To learn more about the Ports of Indiana, visit www.portsofindiana.com.

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Some numbers impress. 
Others tell a story. 

Together with Amaggi, we celebrate an extraordinary milestone: 40,000 operating hours and more than 2 million cycles completed over 11 years by our E-Crane Series 3000.

More than performance, this achievement represents trust built over time, dedicated teams, and a strong culture of maintenance and operational excellence.

Every operating hour reflects well-made decisions.
Every completed cycle represents experience gained in the field.
Every milestone reinforces the strength of a true partnership.

At E-Crane, we believe innovation does not happen only within the equipment — it is born through collaboration with customers who challenge limits every day and drive us to continuously evolve.

We move forward together, because our customers transform results into legacy and help shape the future of E-Crane solutions.

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IFFCO operates a Siwertell 790-D screw-type ship unloader at its Paradeep terminal, handling bulk materials such as rock phosphate and sulphur. After 12 years of continuous operation, key vertical conveyor components required replacement to maintain reliability and ensure sustained operational efficiency. “Following the replacement of the vertical conveyor components, the screw unloader is operating smoothly without vibration and is performing almost like a new machine,” said Mr. B. K. Raul, Chief Manager (Mechanical), IFFCO Paradeep.

Customer Need

To ensure correct installation and reduce operational risk, IFFCO requested Bruks Siwertell to take responsibility for the project as an EPC (Engineering, Procurement and Construction) solution, including supervision of the replacement of the vertical conveyor tubes and transport screws. The physical installation work was carried out by a qualified local contractor under close supervision by Bruks Siwertell’s service engineers.

IFFCO’s ship unloader plays a critical role in handling raw materials at the terminal. After over 18,000 operating hours, some parts on the vertical conveyor had never been replaced since the unloader was originally commissioned. Their replacement required meticulous planning and technical expertise to ensure correct alignment and installation of the vertical conveyor system.

Additionally, the project faced constraints due to a limited maintenance window between vessel operations. The available shutdown period was significantly shorter than standard requirements, making efficient planning and execution essential. To ensure adherence to OEM standards and enable rapid return to service, IFFCO opted for an EPC solution with OEM service supervision.

Our Solution

Bruks Siwertell executed the project through a comprehensive EPC approach, combining engineering expertise, component supply, and on-site supervision. Experienced service engineers were deployed to oversee the local contractor and ensure compliance with original design specifications and quality standards.

To minimize downtime, extensive pre-assembly activities were carried out before the maintenance window. Conveyor tubes, screw sections, and associated components were prepared in advance, enabling efficient installation once the equipment was released.

The scope of work included:

• Dismantling of existing vertical conveyor components
• Installation of new transport tubes and vertical screw assemblies
• Installation and alignment of OD & ID bearings
• Handling and installation of the vertical gearbox
• Complete alignment checks of the Vertical conveyor system

IFFCO emphasized the importance of OEM presence during critical installation and alignment activities. The Bruks Siwertell team ensured high technical precision, structured planning, and effective execution throughout the project. “The Bruks Siwertell supervision team provided excellent technical support. The work was executed with careful planning, clear scheduling, and strong technical guidance,” added Raul.

Following installation, the system underwent a complete commissioning sequence. The vertical conveyor performed smoothly during trials, and the unloader was successfully returned to operation.

Customer Results

Through the replacement of critical components and execution under OEM supervision, IFFCO has significantly enhanced the reliability and performance of its Siwertell ship unloader. The machine is now operating efficiently while handling rock phosphate, achieving unloading rates of approximately 1400–1500t/h, even under challenging conditions such as high moisture content.

“Overall, the replacement of the vertical conveyor components and the supervision provided by Bruks Siwertell have significantly improved the performance and reliability of the ship unloader,” concluded Mr. Raul.

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Bruks Siwertell has been awarded Bulk Handling Equipment Provider of the Year 2026 – Sweden by EU Business News as part of the Scandinavian Business Awards 2026. The recognition highlights the company’s continued commitment to delivering reliable, high-performance Siwertell dry bulk handling solutions that support more efficient and sustainable operations worldwide.

The award reflects Bruks Siwertell’s long-standing position as a trusted global partner to ports and industrial operators requiring dependable Siwertell bulk handling systems for demanding applications. For decades, the company has set industry benchmarks through its renowned Siwertell product range, including innovative ship unloaders, loaders, conveying systems and lifecycle services engineered to maximise productivity, operational efficiency and environmental performance.

“We are honoured to receive this recognition from EU Business News,” says Malin Pekberg, Marketing Manager, Bruks Siwertell. “This award is a testament to the expertise and dedication of our teams, and to our continued focus on developing Siwertell solutions that help customers strengthen operational performance, improve safety standards and meet increasing sustainability requirements.”

Bruks Siwertell solutions are used across a wide range of sectors, including ports, cement, biomass, and energy. Designed for continuous operation in challenging environments, Siwertell enclosed conveying technology helps customers reduce dust emissions, minimise material loss and maintain safer, cleaner terminals and facilities.

As global industries continue to prioritise efficiency, resilience, and lower emissions, Bruks Siwertell remains focused on innovation and long-term customer value. Through advanced Siwertell technologies, high-efficiency operations, responsive service support and close customer collaboration, the company continues to enable reliable bulk material handling performance for the future. Read about the award in EU Business News here.

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On 23 April 2026, senior representatives from ports, industry, and policy institutions across the Baltic Sea Region convened in Hamburg for the workshop “From Ports to Green Corridors: Energy Transition and Decarbonisation in Transport.” The event took place at the HHLA Container Terminal Tollerort, highlighting Hamburg’s role as a central hub for sustainable maritime innovation.  

Participants highlighted the need for long-term regulatory stability as a central driver of decarbonisation and the energy transition, alongside stronger regional collaboration to share best practices, coordinate investments, and develop scalable solutions. Discussions also emphasised the importance of further promoting efficiency gains and ensuring continued funding for pilot projects. A key takeaway was that sustainable port and logistics infrastructure are essential contributors to a resilient Baltic Sea Region.

The workshop was organised by the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg – Senate Chancellery – Baltic Sea Strategy Point in cooperation with Port of Hamburg Marketing, with kind support from Hamburg Port and Logistics AG (HHLA).

Strategic Focus on Decarbonisation and Cooperation

Ports are critical geopolitical assets and key enablers of Europe’s energy transition. Against this backdrop, the workshop aimed to strengthen the visibility of port-related challenges within the EU Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region and to foster enhanced cross-sectoral collaboration among policy areas such as energy, transport, safety, and shipping.

The programme featured a series of expert-led sessions addressing both operational realities and long-term transformation pathways. Discussions focused on:

• The current status of decarbonisation efforts at the Port of Hamburg, including investments in onshore power supply, alternative fuel infrastructure, and green shipping corridors
• Market perspectives on emerging fuels such as methanol, ammonia, and hydrogen
• The role of hinterland connectivity and rail infrastructure in enabling sustainable logistics chains
• Efficiency gains through digital coordination and cross-sector collaboration
• Operational challenges in decarbonising shipping from an industry perspective

Platform for Policy Dialogue and Regional Alignment

A central component of the workshop was a structured dialogue with Policy Area Coordinators of the EU Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region. Participants jointly identified key challenges facing ports in the Baltic Sea Region and explored actionable solutions, including improved governance mechanisms, project development frameworks, and pathways to better integrate regional insights into EU-level policymaking.

The event also examined how the Strategy could further evolve to support more effective and sustained cooperation across sectors and national boundaries. Particular emphasis was placed on developing scalable project ideas and strengthening institutional linkages between stakeholders.

Facilitating Exchange Between Industry and Policymakers

By bringing together port authorities, logistics operators, energy providers, and policymakers, the workshop served as a targeted platform for knowledge exchange and strategic alignment. The format combined expert presentations, moderated discussions, and interactive sessions designed to generate concrete outcomes and cooperation opportunities.

The programme concluded with a guided harbour boat tour hosted by Port of Hamburg Marketing, providing participants with direct insight into port operations and ongoing transformation efforts.

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Construction is progressing swiftly on E-Crane’s new service center and warehouse located in Meghna Economic Zone (MEZ), Bangladesh. Since breaking ground in May 2025, the project has moved forward at a rapid pace to address the growing regional demand for E-Crane equipment and specialized components.

With only a few final tasks remaining, the facility is expected to be fully operational soon. This milestone is highly anticipated by local operators who currently rely on time-consuming imports from Belgium. By maintaining a robust local inventory, E-Crane Bangladesh will be able to provide immediate spare parts support and rapid service, significantly reducing downtime and enhancing operational efficiency for its customers across the country.

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Recently, our team has been especially active in this space, supporting a wide range of projects with expert engineering guidance. We’ve provided hands-on support for complex material handling demands. In addition to consulting, we offer both structural and mechanical engineering services, allowing us to support projects with a comprehensive, integrated approach.

In today’s environment, bringing in experienced engineers early in the process can significantly reduce risk, prevent costly missteps, and optimize long-term performance. With over four decades of expertise our team delivers practical, field proven guidance that helps clients make informed decisions at every stage. This depth of experience is why our clients continue to trust us with their most critical operations.

We’d welcome the opportunity to support your next project.

ENGINEERING + CONSULTING

DSI Engineering + Consulting Services

Dos Santos International offers a diverse range of consulting and engineering services, from market studies and promotional efforts to detailed engineering and on-the-ground support. With decades of expertise, we have consistently delivered tailored solutions that provide our clients with innovative answers and resources, driving significant cost savings and operational efficiency. We are proud to have been recognized by our valued partners. Customer confidence is at the heart of everything we do, and we remain dedicated to delivering the highest standard of professional and efficient engineering services.

CUSTOMER TESTIMONIAL

“Let it suffice to say, you guys have impressed me with providing support on complicated rigging problems. But I would be remiss if I didn’t say that this last project may be some of your best work so far. Attention to detail on a complicated project, full site support with very limited advance notice and the ability to support a seamless hand off between the three of you (site support) for the duration of the project. We were a pretty good ways int utilizing a complicated (and expensive) rigging system that you helped us avoid, saving the project both time and money. Job well done!”

Plant Manager Texas Generating Station

SEE OUR EXPERIENCE IN EACH INDUSTRY

You can find a list of our projects by clicking below, scrolling down and clicking the tab for each industry.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Driving Efficiency: Amy Duncan on the Cost Value of Sandwich Belt High Angle Conveyors

Amy Duncan will present “The Cost Value of Sandwich Belt High Angle Conveyors” at the IEEE-IAS/ACA Cement Conference on April 29 in Fort Lauderdale, FL.

The conference runs from April 26-30 at the Broward County Convention Center.

Joe Showcases High Angle Conveyor Innovation in Lisbon

Joe will speak at the Electric Mine Show in Lisbon, Portugal, presenting on Sandwich Belt High Angle Conveyors—Unlimited Capacity and Mobility for IPCC Systems.

His session highlights how this technology is transforming material transport with greater efficiency, flexibility, and scalability for modern mining operations. A strong step forward for the future of IPCC.

SERVICES CORNER

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Weather, strikes and geopolitics weigh on volumes, with recovery in March and continued investments in the future

In the first quarter of 2026, Port of Antwerp‑Bruges handled 65.5 million tons of maritime cargo, a decrease of 3.2% compared to the same period last year. After a weak start in January and February, throughput recovered in March. General cargo (-4.4%) – in particular containers and conventional general cargo – was under pressure, while bulk cargo remained stable (-0.6%) and RoRo traffic increased. The results reflect a complex combination of factors, including adverse weather conditions, social actions, geopolitical tensions and a weakened European industrial base.

Weaker start for container traffic

In the first quarter of 2026, container throughput decreased by 5.5% in tons and 2.6% in TEU compared to the same period last year. This should be seen against the backdrop of a relatively strong start to 2025, when the restructuring of container alliances generated high inbound volumes, as well as the weakened export position of Western Europe.

In addition, the start of the year was marked by extreme weather conditions. A snowstorm and prolonged cold spell in January, followed by severe storms in the Bay of Biscay until mid‑February, disrupted shipping and terminal operations. A four‑day strike against pension reform also had a significant impact. The interruption of the nautical chain led to the diversion of several vessels to other ports and to planned call-sizes that could only be partially handled due to a lack of spare terminal capacity.

Overall, an estimated 100,000 TEU (approximately 1.1 million ton) of container throughput was lost. From mid‑February onwards, and particularly in March, volumes recovered, once again highlighting the need for additional container handling capacity.

Quarterly figures Q1 2026

Mixed performance in other segments

Conventional general cargo was also under pressure, mainly due to lower steel exports to key markets such as the United States, Mexico and Canada, as well as the entry into force of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) on 1 January 2026.

By contrast, the RoRo segment recorded growth, driven by higher volumes of new vehicles and high & heavy equipment. Shortsea RoRo traffic remains affected by the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS), particularly on longer hauls, although the shift towards road transport appears to be slowing as diesel prices rise.

Dry bulk declined by 4.9%, due among other things to lower fertiliser volumes and the disappearance of coal traffic. Liquid bulk recorded slight growth of 0.2%, supported by a strong performance in March. However, developments within the segment varied widely: volumes increased for gasoline, naphtha, fuel oil and LNG, while diesel, kerosene and LPG declined.

These trends are influenced by changing market conditions, shifts in feedstock, anticipation of the European import ban on Russian LNG, as well as geopolitical tensions and market dynamics such as backwardation. Chemicals throughput remains under pressure due to the weak position of the European chemical industry.

First impact of the Middle East conflict

The direct impact of the conflict in the Middle East remained limited in the first quarter due to longer sailing times via the Cape of Good Hope. The decline in imports from and exports to and from the Persian Gulf, of respectively 12% and 49%, during this period can largely be attributed to weather‑related disruptions.

From the end of March onwards, however, the first effects became visible. On 23 March, the last LNG tanker so far from Qatar arrived in Zeebrugge, and container lines adjusted their sailing schedules towards alternative ports in the Middle East and the eastern Mediterranean.

At present, the most significant impact of the conflict and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz is indirect, through rising energy and fuel prices. These increased bunker and transport costs and further weaken the competitiveness of European industry. At the same time, low European gas storage levels – which will need to be replenished ahead of next winter – and disruptions in supply chains for certain products are creating additional

Investments and projects reinforce future‑oriented strategy

Despite geopolitical tensions and economic pressure, Port of Antwerp‑Bruges continues to invest in its future. The arrival of Chinese manufacturer Windrose, which is developing its first European flagship site for electric trucks in Antwerp, confirms the port’s international appeal for innovative and sustainable investments.

At the same time, operational capacity is being reinforced through the modernisation of the Europa Terminal, where newly delivered crane infrastructure will play a key role in handling the world’s largest container vessels. With the launch of market assessment for the ECA project, Port of Antwerp‑Bruges is also taking the next step towards additional container handling capacity, with the ambition of supporting future growth in a sustainable and resilient manner.

At a strategic level as well, Port of Antwerp‑Bruges continues to take the lead. During the European Industry Summit in Antwerp, the port endorsed the Antwerp Call to Alden Biesen, a clear appeal for a stronger European industrial policy, focusing on competitive energy prices, fair trade conditions, protection against carbon leakage and recognition of the chemical sector as a cornerstone of European industry.

Rob Smeets, CEO ad interim Port of Antwerp-Bruges:

“This quarter’s results show how strongly external factors are currently influencing port activity and the wider economy. We are seeing the impact of geopolitical tensions, disruptions in supply chains and the difficult position of European industry. At the same time, this underlines the importance of a robust and agile port infrastructure. By continuing to invest in capacity, sustainability and efficiency, we are strengthening our role as a reliable link in international trade – even in an increasingly complex environment.”

 

Johan Klaps, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Port of Antwerp Bruges and Antwerp Alderman for the Port:

“The figures for this quarter show that the pressure on the European economy is not a cyclical phenomenon, but points to structural bottlenecks in the competitiveness of the European economy. This calls for clear choices at the European level, but also for ports that think ahead. Port of Antwerp-Bruges is taking on that responsibility by actively investing in robust infrastructure and future-oriented capacity, as well as in a sustainable energy policy.”

Dirk De fauw, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of Port of Antwerp Bruges and Mayor of Bruges:

“The developments of this quarter underline the crucial importance of the port for the economic strength of our region and of Europe as a whole. From Zeebrugge, we play a key role in energy supply, logistics and industrial activities. Investments in infrastructure, innovation and sustainable projects not only generate additional traffic, but also jobs and economic growth. In this way, we continue to build a strong, future‑proof port that contributes to broad‑based prosperity.”

 

Would you like to know more?

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Figure 1- Off-center load on a mistracking belt that’s reaching up to contact the conveyor structure.

Mistracking is prevented by first understanding the basic patterns of belt behavior and then following established procedures to carefully align the structure and components to correct fluctuations in the belt’s path.

Mistracking Indicators:

• Belt edge damage
• Excessive spillage
• Idler/Pulley fouling
• Off-center belt at head or tail pulley

Common Causes of Mistracking

There are three general groups of common causes for mistracking.

Belt and Splice – If the belt is poorly manufactured or stored improperly, it can bow or camber.  Poor installation of a vulcanized or mechanical splice can result in a splice that causes belt tracking problems.  Exposure to weather or to chemicals can degrade the carcass (plies or cords) and the cover of the belt, leading to bowing, cambering or cupping due to unequal shrinkage between the top and bottom covers.

Conveyor Structure – Inaccurate alignment during the construction of the stringer, structural alignment degradation, machinery collision, seismic activity, or ground settling all spark the need for realignment.

Improper Loading – The load’s center of gravity will seek the lowest point of the troughing idlers, so if the belt is not center loaded, the weight of the cargo pushes the belt toward the conveyor’s more lightly loaded side.

Smarter Tracking

Standard tracking provided by conveyor OEMs is often inadequate, especially as the system settles and ages.  Switch mechanisms that detect mistracking and stop the system are excellent for safety, but they can lead to excessive downtime.  Rollers attached to the stringer prevent contact but cause the belt to fold over on itself.  Neither of these is a preventive measure.

Figure 2 – Sensing slight variations in the belt path helps make immediate micro-adjustments.

Multi-Pivot Belt Trackers like Martin® Trackers™ use long arms to control a pivot roller.  The guide rolls detect very slight misalignments and make immediate corrections. The longer arms require considerably less force to move the pivot roller, resulting in less counterforce and drag on the belt. [Fig.2]

By reducing the energy required to correct the belt, wear on both the conveyor and tracking equipment is reduced, resulting in a longer, more efficient service life.  This design has also been adapted for the belt return and reversing belts. [Fig.3]

Figure 3 – The upper unit for the conveyor carrying side and the lower for return side.

Belt Tracker Placement

To avoid units competing and contradicting each other’s steering action, they should be positioned approximately 20 to 50 meters (70 to 160 ft) apart, depending on the severity of the mistracking problem.  For proper loading, unloading, and settling, it is recommended to place trackers in some critical areas. [Fig.4]

Figure 4 – A Martin expert draws out a quick sketch to help an attendee visualize the solution.

Typically elevated 10-20 millimeters (1/2 to 3/4 in.) higher than the rolls of the adjacent conventional idlers, a center roll or pivot roll increases the belt’s pressure on the tracking device, improving the corrective friction between the belt and the aligning roll.  This is applicable to both troughed (carrying side) and at (return side) self-aligning idlers.  It helps to have rubber-covered rollers rather than “steel can” idlers.

Conclusion

The long-term benefits to efficient conveyor operations are well known.  Keeping the belt centered and moving quickly is the key to high production, a low cost of operation and a safer workplace.

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