Designed for ports, container terminals, shipyards, precast plants, and heavy industries.
- One Machine for Lift, Transport & Stacking
- Compact Design for Higher Yard Utilization
- Adapt to Existing Facilities with Adjustable Height Design
Need to lift, transport, and stack heavy loads without relying on multiple machines? A straddle carrier integrates these handling tasks into one mobile solution, helping simplify material flow, reduce transfer steps, and improve operational efficiency. Whether you’re moving containers, precast concrete components, steel structures, modular buildings, or heavy industrial equipment, Aicrane delivers customized straddle crane solutions designed around your workflow and site requirements.
How Straddle Carriers Improve Material Handling Efficiency
Complete Multiple Handling Tasks with One Machine
Traditional handling workflows often require separate equipment for lifting, transportation, and stacking, resulting in additional transfer steps and waiting time.
A straddle carrier combines these functions into one mobile solution, creating a more continuous material handling process.
- Reduce reliance on multiple handling machines
- Minimize equipment coordination and transfer time
- Improve workflow efficiency with integrated handling
Adapt to Facilities with Limited Door Clearance
Moving heavy loads between indoor workshops and outdoor storage areas can be challenging when building entrances limit equipment height.
Our straddle carriers can be equipped with a hydraulically telescopic frame that adjusts the machine height to pass through restricted clearances, enabling continuous indoor and outdoor handling without additional transfers.
- Pass through workshops with limited entrance height
- Reduce the need for building modifications
- Maintain a continuous indoor-to-outdoor handling workflow
Maximize Yard Space with Efficient Stacking
Limited yard space often restricts storage capacity and handling efficiency in ports, logistics yards, and industrial facilities.
With a compact structure and rubber-tired mobility, mobile straddle carriers support efficient container stacking while making better use of existing yard space without fixed rail systems.
- Improve utilization of existing site space
- Support high-density container stacking
- Reduce the need for extensive infrastructure investment
Aicrane Straddle Carrier Models
We provide three standard straddle crane models – SC40, SC60, and SC80 – designed for different lifting capacities and heavy-duty handling applications. Each model is available in both diesel-powered and lithium battery electric versions, offering flexible solutions for container handling, industrial transportation, and oversized load movement.
SC40 Straddle Carrier
The SC40 is a compact 40 ton straddle carrier designed for flexible transportation of containers and industrial loads. With a 4-wheel configuration, compact dimensions, and excellent maneuverability, it is ideal for operations requiring frequent movement in limited working areas.
Key Engineering Advantages
- Compact 4-Wheel Configuration: Provides excellent maneuverability and a smaller turning radius for efficient operation in container yards, logistics facilities, and space-limited industrial sites.
- Efficient Daily Operation: The SC40 combines reliable lifting performance with optimized energy consumption, making it suitable for frequent handling cycles and cost-conscious operations.
Typical Applications
- Ports, Inland Terminals & Logistics Hubs: Handling and transferring standard 20 ft and 40 ft containers between storage areas, trucks, and handling zones.
- Manufacturing & Storage Facilities: Moving industrial components, modular units, and other medium-sized loads within production areas.
SC40 Technical Specifications
| Specification | SC40 Diesel Version | SC40 Electric Version |
|---|---|---|
| Rated Capacity | 40 t | 40 t |
| Overall Dimensions (L×W×H) | 9500 × 5170 × 5630 mm | 9500 × 5170 × 5630 mm |
| Effective Inner Width | 3200 mm | 3200 mm |
| Wheelbase | 6500 mm | 6500 mm |
| Max. Lifting Height | 5450 mm | 5450 mm |
| Secondary Lift Height | 1550 mm | 1550 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 230 mm | 230 mm |
| Number of Tires | 4 | 4 |
| Machine Weight (Without Spreader) | 19 t | 20 t |
| Energy Source | Diesel Fuel | Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO₄) Battery |
| Drive System | Cummins Stage III Diesel Engine | Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor |
| Power Output | 100 kW | 80 kW |
| Hydraulic Pump | Danfoss / Rexroth | Danfoss / Rexroth |
| Max. Travel Speed (No Load) | 80 m/min | 80 m/min |
| Max. Travel Speed (Full Load) | 50 m/min | 50 m/min |
| Turning Radius | 8500 mm | 8500 mm |
| Gradeability (No Load) | ±5% | ±5% |
| Gradeability (Full Load) | ±3% | ±3% |
| Operation Method | Cabin (Optional Remote Control) | Cabin (Optional Remote Control) |
| Tire Type | Solid Tire | Solid Tire |
| Lifting Attachment | Chain Sling / Container Spreader | Chain Sling / Container Spreader |
SC60 Straddle Carrier
The SC60 is a 60 ton straddle carrier crane designed for customers requiring a balance between lifting capacity, mobility, and application flexibility. With increased inner clearance and stronger structural performance, it can handle both heavy containers and industrial components across different working environments.
Key Engineering Advantages
- Balanced Capacity and Flexibility: The 60-ton lifting capacity provides an ideal solution between standard container handling and heavier industrial transportation requirements.
- Enhanced Load Stability: A reinforced structure and optimized drive system ensure stable operation when transporting heavy loads over long distances or demanding working conditions.
Typical Applications
- Modular Construction Facilities: Transporting prefabricated building modules, structural sections, and finished assemblies.
- Industrial Manufacturing Plants: Handling steel structures, equipment modules, generators, and other medium-heavy industrial components.
- Logistics and Container Operations: Supporting terminals requiring higher capacity than standard container handling equipment.
SC60 Technical Specifications
| Specification | SC60 Diesel Version | SC60 Electric Version |
|---|---|---|
| Rated Capacity | 60 t | 60 t |
| Overall Dimensions (L×W×H) | 12000 × 5600 × 6400 mm | 12000 × 5600 × 6400 mm |
| Effective Inner Width | 3700 mm | 3700 mm |
| Wheelbase | 6500 mm | 6500 mm |
| Max. Lifting Height | 5600 mm | 5600 mm |
| Secondary Lift Height | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 310 mm | 310 mm |
| Number of Tires | 4 | 4 |
| Machine Weight (Without Spreader) | 35 t | 35 t |
| Energy Source | Diesel Fuel | Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO₄) Battery |
| Drive System | Cummins Stage III Diesel Engine | Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor |
| Power Output | 129 kW | 90 kW |
| Hydraulic Pump | Danfoss / Rexroth | Danfoss / Rexroth |
| Max. Travel Speed (No Load) | 80 m/min | 80 m/min |
| Max. Travel Speed (Full Load) | 50 m/min | 50 m/min |
| Turning Radius | 10000 mm | 10000 mm |
| Gradeability (No Load) | ±5% | ±5% |
| Gradeability (Full Load) | ±3% | ±3% |
| Operation Method | Cabin (Optional Remote Control) | Cabin (Optional Remote Control) |
| Tire Type | Solid Tire | Solid Tire |
| Lifting Attachment | Chain Sling / Container Spreader | Chain Sling / Container Spreader |
SC80 Straddle Carrier
The SC80 is an 80 ton straddle carrier developed for demanding heavy-load transportation. With an 8-wheel configuration, increased structural strength, and higher load capacity, it provides stable handling for oversized components and continuous industrial operations.
Key Engineering Advantages
- 8-Wheel Load Distribution Design: The additional wheel configuration helps distribute machine and cargo weight more effectively, improving stability during heavy-load transportation.
- High-Capacity Heavy-Duty Performance: Designed for demanding applications requiring reliable lifting, transportation, and positioning of oversized industrial components.
Typical Applications
- Precast Concrete Plants: Handling large precast components, bridge segments, concrete pipes, and other infrastructure products.
- Shipyards and Heavy Manufacturing: Transporting ship blocks, steel structures, wind energy components, and oversized industrial modules.
- Steel Mills and Industrial Sites: Supporting heavy material movement where high lifting capacity and operational stability are required.
SC80 Technical Specifications
| Specification | SC80 Diesel Version | SC80 Electric Version |
|---|---|---|
| Rated Capacity | 80 t | 80 t |
| Overall Dimensions (L×W×H) | 12000 × 5900 × 6400 mm | 12000 × 5900 × 6400 mm |
| Effective Inner Width | 3700 mm | 3700 mm |
| Wheelbase | 7500 mm | 7500 mm |
| Max. Lifting Height | 5600 mm | 5600 mm |
| Secondary Lift Height | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 310 mm | 310 mm |
| Number of Tires | 8 | 8 |
| Machine Weight (Without Spreader) | 45 t | 45 t |
| Energy Source | Diesel Fuel | Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO₄) Battery |
| Drive System | Cummins Stage III Diesel Engine | Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor |
| Power Output | 176 kW | 120 kW |
| Hydraulic Pump | Danfoss / Rexroth | Danfoss / Rexroth |
| Max. Travel Speed (No Load) | 80 m/min | 80 m/min |
| Max. Travel Speed (Full Load) | 50 m/min | 50 m/min |
| Turning Radius | 12000 mm | 12000 mm |
| Gradeability (No Load) | ±5% | ±5% |
| Gradeability (Full Load) | ±3% | ±3% |
| Operation Method | Cabin (Optional Remote Control) | Cabin (Optional Remote Control) |
| Tire Type | Solid Tire | Solid Tire |
| Lifting Attachment | Chain Sling / Container Spreader | Chain Sling / Container Spreader |
While SC40, SC60, and SC80 provide standardized solutions for common handling requirements, every project has unique operating conditions, including workspace limitations, load characteristics, and workflow requirements. For applications that require specific configurations, we provide customized straddle carrier solutions tailored to your site and operational needs.
Customize A Straddle Carrier Crane to Match Your Operation
From material flow and cargo type to site conditions and environmental demands, we configure each straddle carrier system to fit your application – delivering a solution built around the way you work.
For Your Handling Process
Aicrane configures the straddle carrier according to your material flow, whether your operation requires transportation only or both transportation and stacking.
Transport ConfigurationDesigned for efficient horizontal transportation of heavy loads, this configuration features a fixed-frame structure with optimized stability and a lower overall height. It is ideal for moving ISO containers, steel structures, precast concrete components, modular buildings, and other oversized industrial cargo between production, storage, and loading areas.
Stacking ConfigurationDesigned for both transportation and vertical stacking, this configuration features a hydraulically telescopic lifting frame that provides additional lifting height while maintaining operational flexibility. Typical configurations include 1-over-2 (3 high straddle carrier) and 1-over-3 (4 high straddle carrier), with custom stacking heights available to meet different yard layouts, storage density, and operational requirements.
For Your Cargo Types
Aicrane adapts the lifting system to handle different cargo types, from standard containers to oversized industrial components.
20 ft and 40 ft ISO Container SpreadersDesigned for standard container handling operations, supporting efficient lifting, transportation, and stacking of 20 ft and 40 ft ISO containers in ports, logistics yards, and industrial facilities.
Customized Lifting AttachmentsAvailable for precast concrete components, steel structures, modular buildings, energy storage units, and other oversized industrial loads requiring specialized handling solutions.
Independent Four-Point Hydraulic Lifting SystemAllows each lifting point to be adjusted individually to improve load balance, compensate for positioning deviations, and simplify lifting operations for operators.
For Your Site Layout
Our straddle lift cranes are designed to operate efficiently in confined spaces and adapt to different facility layouts.
Multiple Steering Modes for Maximum ManeuverabilityMultiple steering modes, including straight travel, crab steering, diagonal steering, Ackermann steering, pivot steering, and zero-radius turning, enable flexible movement in narrow aisles, confined areas, and complex yard layouts.
Rubber-Tired Mobility Without Fixed RailsRubber tires eliminate the need for fixed rail systems, allowing flexible operation across different working areas and adapting to changing site layouts.
Telescopic Frame for Limited Door ClearanceThe hydraulically telescopic frame allows the straddle carrier to adjust its overall height when passing through restricted entrances, supporting continuous indoor and outdoor handling without major building modifications.
Customized Design for Site RequirementsDimensions, lifting height, inner clearance, and other configurations can be customized to match specific facility layouts, cargo requirements, and operating conditions.
For Your Power Requirements
We provide both diesel and electric power options to match different operating conditions.
Diesel Straddle CarrierPowered by Cummins Stage III diesel engines, diesel straddle carriers deliver high torque, long operating endurance, and reliable performance for continuous heavy-duty operations. They are well suited for ports, logistics yards, shipyards, precast plants, and other outdoor applications where long working hours and high productivity are required.
Electric Straddle CarrierPowered by Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO₄) batteries and permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSM), electric straddle carriers provide zero on-site emissions, lower operating noise, and higher energy efficiency while reducing maintenance requirements. They are ideal for indoor facilities, environmentally regulated projects, and operations requiring cleaner and quieter material handling.
For Your Safety & Intelligent Operation Requirements
Straddle carriers can integrate safety and intelligent systems to improve operational efficiency and support future automation upgrades.
Emergency Braking & Collision ProtectionEmergency braking and anti-collision systems help detect potential risks and respond quickly, reducing collision hazards in busy yards, confined working areas, and complex operating environments.
Load & Position MonitoringReal-time load monitoring, height limitation, and weight protection functions help prevent unsafe operating conditions while improving lifting control and protecting critical components.
Video Monitoring SystemHD camera monitoring provides operators with a clearer view of surrounding areas and load positions, improving visibility and positioning accuracy during lifting, transportation, and stacking operations.
Remote Monitoring & Automation SolutionsRemote monitoring functions and customized automation solutions are available according to project requirements, enabling intelligent equipment management, system integration, and future upgrades for automated material handling operations
For Your Operating Environment
Aicrane adapts rubber tyred straddle carriers to different climate and working conditions to ensure long-term reliability.
Marine-Grade Corrosion ProtectionAnti-corrosion coatings and protective treatments help protect the marine and port straddle carrier from salt spray, humidity, and corrosive conditions in coastal ports and marine environments.
Dust & Water ProtectionSealed electrical components and IP67-rated protection help prevent dust and water ingress, ensuring reliable operation in harsh outdoor and industrial environments.
Cold-Weather AdaptationCold-resistant hydraulic oil, low-temperature seals, battery thermal management, electrical component protection, and engine preheating systems support reliable operation in freezing conditions.
Dust-Resistant Design for Heavy IndustriesEnhanced dust protection solutions help the industrial straddle carrier operate reliably in steel mills, mining sites, and other environments with high levels of airborne particles.
What Are Straddle Carriers Used for?
Straddle carriers are designed for industries that require efficient transportation, storage, and loading of containers and oversized industrial components. From container terminals and logistics yards to manufacturing facilities and shipyards, straddle cranes provide flexible handling solutions for a wide range of heavy-duty applications.
Port Container Terminals & Inland Logistics Hubs
Container straddle carriers are designed for flexible container handling in ports, inland terminals, and logistics hubs where efficient transfer, stacking, and repositioning are required.
Typical applications:
- ISO container transfer between handling areas
- Container stacking and repositioning
- Support for container loading and unloading operations
- Intermodal transportation workflows
Straddle container carriers are especially suitable for yards requiring frequent container movement, flexible operation, and efficient use of available space.
Container Manufacturing & Assembly Facilities
Container manufacturing facilities require reliable internal transportation solutions to move finished containers and semi-finished units between production lines, storage areas, and shipping zones.
Typical applications:
- Finished container transfer
- Container storage and stacking
- Movement between manufacturing and dispatch areas
- Internal transportation between production stages
A container straddle crane helps container manufacturers reduce manual handling steps and improve the efficiency of production logistics.
Heavy Industrial Manufacturing & Energy Projects
Industrial straddle carriers provide flexible handling solutions for oversized components, heavy equipment, and industrial modules that require frequent movement within manufacturing and assembly areas.
Typical applications:
- Energy storage systems and battery containers
- Generator sets and industrial equipment
- Large industrial modules
- Wind energy components
These applications benefit from the ability to move heavy loads between production areas, storage zones, and loading points without relying on multiple transport systems.
Precast Concrete & Modular Building Manufacturing
Precast plants and modular building manufacturers require efficient transportation solutions for moving large prefabricated components between production areas, storage yards, and loading zones.
Typical applications:
- Precast concrete components
- Bridge segments and structural elements
- Modular building units
- Prefabricated structures
A straddle carrier crane provides a flexible solution for handling large components that require careful positioning, temporary storage, and efficient transfer within the facility.
Shipyards & Marine Facilities
Shipyards and marine facilities often need to transport large boats, marine structures, and heavy components between docks, workshops, and storage areas.
Typical applications:
- Boats and yachts
- Ship blocks
- Marine structures
- Shipyard components
With customized lifting configurations, boat or marine straddle carriers can support marine handling operations where mobility, load stability, and efficient space utilization are important.
How Much Does a Straddle Carrier Cost? Main Factors Affecting Price
Looking for a container straddle carrier for sale? After selecting the right configuration for your application, the next step is understanding the price. Because every straddle carrier is customized to match specific handling requirements, the final quotation depends on the selected specifications, customization options, and project conditions rather than a standard list price.
The main factors influencing the final quotation include:
How Lifting Capacity Affects Price
A higher lifting capacity requires a stronger and more robust machine structure to safely handle heavier loads. This affects the price through:
- Larger steel structures and load-bearing components
- Higher-capacity hydraulic lifting systems
- More powerful travel and braking systems
- Additional structural reinforcement and safety requirements
Therefore, higher-capacity straddle carrier cranes require more materials, engineering input, and manufacturing processes.
How Stacking Height Affects Price
Stacking requirements influence the complexity of the lifting system and overall frame design.
Compared with transport-only applications, higher stacking capability requires additional structural design, longer lifting travel, and stronger stabilization systems to maintain safe operation at elevated positions.
As stacking height increases, the required engineering and manufacturing complexity also increase, resulting in a higher equipment price.
How Cargo Type Affects Price
The cargo being handled determines the required lifting configuration and structural design.
Standard container handling usually follows established designs, while special cargo such as oversized industrial components may require additional engineering, customized lifting solutions, and reinforced structures.
These project-specific requirements increase design, manufacturing, and testing costs, which are reflected in the final quotation.
How the Power System Affects Price
The selected power system influences the initial equipment investment through differences in core components and supporting systems.
Diesel-powered models typically have a lower initial price because they use mature engine systems without the need for large battery packs or charging infrastructure.
Electric straddle carriers generally require a higher initial investment due to the cost of LiFePO₄ battery systems, battery management systems, charging solutions, and electrical integration.
How Site Requirements Affect Price
The operating environment can affect the final price when additional engineering or protection measures are required.
For example:
- Coastal projects may require upgraded materials, corrosion protection processes, and additional surface treatment.
- Low-temperature applications may require specialized components and additional testing to ensure reliable operation.
- Dusty or harsh industrial environments may require improved protection levels for key electrical and hydraulic components.
These additional requirements increase manufacturing complexity and help ensure reliable long-term operation in demanding conditions.
How Control and Smart Features Affect Price
Control options and intelligent functions can also influence the final investment.
Basic operation systems meet standard handling requirements, while advanced configurations may require additional hardware, software integration, and commissioning.
Examples include:
- Remote control systems
- Camera monitoring
- Data monitoring and diagnostic functions
Get a Straddle Carrier Price Quote Based on Your Requirements
Because straddle carriers are engineered for specific applications, an accurate quotation requires understanding your actual operating conditions. Key information includes:
- Required lifting capacity
- Cargo type and dimensions
- Transport or stacking requirements
- Power preference
- Working environment
- Quantity required
Aicrane provides customized straddle carrier solutions and quotation based on your project requirements.
Straddle Carrier Operation & Control Options
Aicrane straddle carriers support both operator cabin control and remote control operation, allowing operators to select the most suitable control method according to working conditions, visibility requirements, and operational preferences.
Operator Cabin Operation
The operator cabin provides direct control of the straddle carrier during daily handling operations. Operators can manage traveling, steering, lifting, and positioning functions from the cabin with clear visibility of the working area.
- Integrated controls for travel, steering, lifting, and stacking operations
- Clear visibility of load movement and surrounding conditions
- Comfortable operating environment for continuous-duty applications
Wireless Remote Control
Wireless remote control allows operators to control the mobile straddle carrier from a safe external position, providing greater flexibility during loading, positioning, and handling operations.
- Wireless control of travel, steering, lifting, and positioning functions
- Improved visibility and operational flexibility during complex handling tasks
Straddle Carrier Installation & Commissioning
Proper installation and commissioning are critical for ensuring safe and reliable operation of a straddle carrier. Aicrane supports the complete process, including site preparation, assembly, testing, and operator training, based on the selected model and project requirements.
Site Preparation Before Delivery
Before the straddle carrier arrives, the operating area should be prepared based on the straddle carrier specifications and working conditions.
- Ground Conditions: The operating surface should have sufficient bearing capacity to support maximum wheel loads under full-load conditions. Requirements depend on the carrier model, cargo weight, wheel configuration, and ground conditions. For example, the Aicrane SC40 straddle carrier has a maximum wheel load of 160 kN under full-load conditions and requires a ground bearing capacity of ≥128 t/m².
- Operating Area & Utilities: The site should provide a level and stable surface, sufficient space for assembly and testing, suitable access routes, and required resources such as hydraulic oil, fuel supply, charging facilities, tools, and auxiliary equipment according to the selected configuration.
Equipment Assembly & System Connection
After arrival at the project site, the delivered components are checked against the packing list and technical documents before assembly.
The assembly process includes:
- Inspection of delivered components, accessories, and spare parts
- Assembly of main mechanical structures with lifting assistance when required
- Connection and inspection of hydraulic systems
- Electrical system connection and parameter checks
- Verification of key components before initial startup
All assembly work is carried out according to the approved drawings, technical documentation, and project-specific installation requirements.
Testing & Commissioning
After mechanical and electrical installation, the straddle carrier crane undergoes systematic testing to verify that all functions operate correctly before handover.
Commissioning typically includes:
- Power system and hydraulic system checks
- Travel and steering function testing
- Lifting and lowering function testing
- Control system verification
- Safety function checks, including alarms and emergency stop systems
- No-load and load testing under operating conditions
The final inspection confirms that the straddle crane meets the required operating performance before being put into service.
Operator Training & Technical Support
Before handover, operators receive guidance on safe operation, daily inspection, and basic maintenance procedures.
Training typically covers:
- Basic driving and control procedures
- Lifting and handling operations
- Daily inspection points
- Routine maintenance requirements
- Safety precautions during operation
For international projects, Aicrane provides 24/7 remote technical support and on-site field service assistance. Experienced engineers can be dispatched to customer sites to support critical installation and commissioning activities, including mechanical assembly, system integration, functional testing, and final operational verification, ensuring smooth project delivery and reliable equipment operation.
Straddle Carrier VS. Reach Stacker VS. RTG Crane: Which Fits Your Operation?
While reach stackers, RTG cranes, and straddle carriers are all widely used for container handling, they are designed for different operating conditions. The comparison below highlights the key differences to help you identify the most suitable solution for your application.
| Comparison Factor | Straddle Carrier | Reach Stacker | RTG Gantry Crane |
|---|---|---|---|
| Handling Process | Lifting, transporting, and stacking completed by one machine, reducing transfer steps. | Flexible lifting and short-distance transport, usually requiring additional equipment for larger workflows. | Fixed-area stacking system that normally requires trucks for container transfer. |
| Mobility & Flexibility | High mobility with rubber tires and multi-directional steering for changing layouts. | Mobile operation but requires larger turning space due to boom structure. | Limited mobility within planned yard areas. |
| Infrastructure Requirements | No rails or fixed crane structures required; only suitable operating ground is needed. | Low infrastructure requirements with standard hardened ground. | Requires reinforced yard areas, planned blocks, and power infrastructure. |
| Stacking Capability | Typically 1–5 containers high depending on configuration. | Typically 2–4 containers high. | Typically 5–7 containers high for high-density storage. |
| Space Utilization | Compact structure and small turning radius suit space-limited operations. | Requires wider operating areas for boom movement. | Requires dedicated lanes and fixed container blocks. |
| Best Applications | Flexible container yards, intermodal terminals, industrial plants, precast and energy projects. | Small and medium yards requiring versatile mobile handling. | Large standardized terminals requiring high-volume container storage. |
The right choice depends on your yard layout, handling process, infrastructure conditions, and operational flexibility requirements. Reach stackers are suitable for flexible mobile handling, RTG rubber tyred gantry cranes are designed for high-density container yards with fixed operating areas, while container straddle carriers provide a balance of mobility, lifting capability, and integrated handling for operations requiring greater flexibility.
Frequently Asked Questions About Straddle Carriers
What Is a Straddle Carrier?
A straddle carrier is a self-propelled mobile lifting vehicle designed to lift, transport, and stack containers or heavy industrial loads. It carries the load within its own structural frame, combining lifting and transportation functions in one machine.
Unlike fixed lifting equipment, a straddle carrier travels on rubber tires without requiring rails or permanent crane structures, making it suitable for flexible material handling operations.
Is a Straddle Carrier a Crane?
A straddle carrier is not classified as a conventional gantry crane. It is a specialized mobile material handling vehicle that combines lifting and transportation functions in a single machine.
The main difference is the handling method: a crane typically lifts and moves loads through a hoisting mechanism within its operating area, while a straddle crane carries the load inside its own frame and travels with the cargo to complete transportation and stacking operations.
How Does a Straddle Carrier Work?
A straddle carrier works by driving over the cargo, lowering the lifting attachment, securing the load, and raising it through the lifting system.
After lifting, the carrier transports the load directly to the required location for stacking, storage, or further handling. Different lifting attachments can be configured according to the cargo type and application.
How Tall Is a Straddle Carrier?
A standard straddle carrier is typically 5.6-6.4 meters high, depending on the model and configuration. Aicrane standard SC series models have overall heights of 5,630 mm (SC40T) and 6,400 mm (SC60T and SC80T). Customized designs are available for projects with specific lifting requirements or site clearance conditions.
How Much Does a Straddle Carrier Weigh?
A standard straddle carrier crane typically weighs 19-45 tons without a spreader, depending on the lifting capacity and configuration. Aicrane SC series models weigh approximately 19-20 tons (SC40T), 35 tons (SC60T), and 45 tons (SC80T), with actual weight varying based on the custom design and configurations.
How Are Straddle Carriers Powered?
Straddle carriers are commonly powered by diesel-hydraulic systems or electric battery systems.
Diesel-powered models are suitable for long-duration outdoor operations, while electric models are preferred for applications requiring lower emissions, reduced noise, or indoor operation. The suitable power solution depends on working conditions, charging availability, and operating requirements.
How to Operate and Drive a Straddle Carrier?
A straddle carrier is operated through an integrated control system that manages driving, steering, lifting, and cargo handling functions.
Unlike equipment that requires stopping before changing direction, straddle carriers can use multi-directional steering modes during operation, allowing flexible movement in narrow spaces and complex yard layouts. Cabin control and remote operation options can be configured according to project requirements.
How to Maintain a Straddle Carrier?
Straddle carrier maintenance includes regular inspection and servicing of key systems to ensure safe operation and reliable performance.
Typical maintenance tasks include checking hydraulic systems, tires, steering components, lifting attachments, electrical systems, and safety devices. A recommended maintenance schedule should be followed based on operating hours and working conditions.
Can a Straddle Carrier Handle Non-Containerized Cargo?
Yes. A straddle carrier can be customized to handle various non-containerized loads in addition to standard containers.
With suitable lifting attachments, it can transport precast concrete components, steel structures, modular units, wind energy components, energy storage systems, and other oversized industrial loads.
What Is the Delivery Time for a Straddle Carrier?
The typical delivery time for a straddle carrier is around three months after order confirmation.
The actual schedule may vary depending on the equipment configuration, customization requirements, production planning, testing procedures, and project arrangements.
Ready to Find the Right Straddle Carrier for Your Project?
Whether you are handling containers, precast components, steel structures, energy equipment, or other heavy loads, selecting the right straddle carrier starts with understanding your handling process and site requirements.
Our engineering team can recommend a suitable configuration based on your lifting capacity, cargo dimensions, stacking requirements, operating environment, and workflow. Contact us today to discuss your project and receive a customized solution, technical proposal, and quotation.
