The Hammar Sidelifter Series 195 is a driver-operated solution for loading, transporting, off-loading and transferring ISO-standard intermodal containers and flats. The system is operated with a remote control.

Its key value is that you don’t need to invest in a forklift with the capacity to move or lift a loaded container. Current trailer designs tilt and dump, says Hammar, which can upset the load and put stress on trailers not designed to have a loaded box dragged across their surface.

The Sidelifter operates via a pair of hydraulic powered cranes mounted at each end of a semi-trailer chassis or a rigid  truck. The cranes are designed to horizontally lift empty or fully loaded containers from the ground or from other vehicles, including rolling stock and railcars. One model in the line can stack one container on top of another.
   
With a Sidelifter chassis of 40 ft in length or more, the unit’s cranes can be shifted hydraulically to pick up either one 20-ft or one 40-ft loaded container or two 20-ft containers at the same time.

The Sidelifter equipment is typically designed to lift up to a maximum of 33 metric tons (72,600 lb), though both bigger and smaller versions exist. It can be delivered with a telescopic ‘trombone’ chassis, which allows the unit to expand and contract in order to accommodate 20-ft to 48-ft containers.