Kalmar, part of Cargotec, is delivering 18 forklift trucks to four different port authorities in Algeria: Algiers, Bejaia, Djen Djen and Mostaganem. The order was awarded by the Algerian port procurement company, Groupement D'Interêt Commun Des Entreprises Portuaires (GICEP) in April 2014. The order inspection and customer training took place in October and the deliveries to the ports have started, the company said in its press release.

GICEP groups together all public ports in Algeria, handling approximately 800,000 TEU annually. Their operations also include stevedoring and general cargo handling. The new Kalmar equipment will help reduce cargo dwell times and increase storage capacity at the ports. Kalmar's previous delivery to Algeria included 25 reachstackers to five different ports in 2013.

Mr Saidi Mabrouk, General Manager at GICEP, commented: "Our ports are investing considerably to add handling capacity and modernise fleets. After the good experience with our previous orders for Kalmar reachstackers, we are convinced that we have made the right choice. We trust in Kalmar's capability to build reliable and quality equipment. Having a partner who can ensure excellent technical support locally is also highly important for us."

The delivery includes four medium forklifts and 14 heavy forklift trucks: four Kalmar DCE160-12 medium range units, six Kalmar DCF180-12 forklift trucks, three Kalmar DCF330-12 and DCF420-12 units as well as one Kalmar DCF520-12. Five units are equipped with an attachment for coil handling. The delivery includes a spare parts package.

Eduardo Arus, Sales Manager, Kalmar West Africa and Maghreb, said: "We are extremely happy to continue cooperation with GICEP and pleased that the customer appreciates the quality of our equipment and service. The machines will be working in demanding port environment. The Kalmar forklift trucks have been tested in the toughest of jobs and are known for their reliability, flexibility and performance."