Heathrow-based ASC Cargo Handling has renewed its materials handling fleet, taking delivery of 12 HD Hyundai Xitesolution forklift trucks, from long-standing national dealer Acclaim Handling. The fork trucks are split equally between two ground handling facilities at London Heathrow Airport. Each site has five 2.5-tonne capacity 25L-9A gas-powered forklifts, with one taking a 16-tonne 160D-9V truck and the other a longer wheelbase 160D-9LV truck.
The machines have been supplied in ASC’s striking red livery, as part of a five-year hire contract that includes servicing and maintenance. Acclaim Handling’s engineers carry out under-bonnet and fluid level checks as part of a weekly inspection of each of the forklifts, providing a one-stop-shop service for ASC.
“I knew of the high level of service Acclaim provides before this went out to tender and together with the respected Hyundai forklift trucks, they offered us the perfect package for our requirements,” said Paul Fallon, Cargo General Manager at ASC.
“We have our own internal checks every 12 hours, to make sure that the machines are serviceable for the next shift. Having Acclaim check the machines weekly works for us and leaves us to focus on moving cargo for our customers. Acclaim now provides all of our forklifts on cargo handling.”
ASC has a diverse range of cargo airline customers from across the world. The company’s fully auditable computer system meets IATA standards and the business is linked to the UK Border Agency, providing a facility to accept both air and vehicle movements for import and export customers. It provides a cargo warehousing facility, capable of handling ULD pallet systems and a range of special cargo products. Heavy lifting equipment is required, as ASC regularly moves passenger cars and aircraft engines, which require the 16-tonne capacity forklifts.
“There are several cargo handler companies at Heathrow and although we are one of the newest handlers, we are going from strength to strength, day by day. We can offer our customers a high-quality service with a personal touch. We can only achieve this if we insist on the same high-quality service from all our suppliers,” said Mr Fallon.
“First, it’s a question of have you got the equipment? Then, is it the right equipment for us? But equally it is about aftersales, looking after the equipment and how you react to breakdowns.
“Our business is 24/7, it’s a conveyor belt and with the current shipping problems around world, the air cargo business is even busier. For our customers, we are the first and last point of contact on the ground.”
Acclaim Handling is a proven trusted supplier of forklifts and materials handling equipment, with clients across the UK. Headquartered in Purfleet, Essex, the company has eight regional depots providing HD Hyundai Xitesolution sales and after care service. The business also provides a driver training facility from its accredited Driver Training Centres.
Acclaim has developed its own operating software, that allows customers like ASC Cargo Handling to monitor 24/7 the service and maintenance records of equipment and to log maintenance work for engineers. The system also provides valuable cost analysis and other KPIs throughout the contract hire period.
HD Hyundai’s 9A range of 2.5-3.5 tonne LPG-powered forklifts feature high-performance, fuel-efficient Stage V engines. High output at low engine speeds makes them suitable for loading and unloading on ramps, where fast lift speeds or repetitive use is required. The 25L-9A forklifts benefit from wet disc brakes in the drive axles and all drive functions are controlled and monitored by a central Machine Control Unit.
The Heavy Line 160D-9V and 160D-9LV 16-tonne models feature HD Hyundai’s next generation cab, that is up to 5.9dB quieter and more comfortable, for stress-free operation throughout the working shift. With improved visibility and fingertip controls, the machines are powered by Stage V compliant Cummins diesel engines, driving through proven ZF transmissions.