Durban-based harbour materials handling specialists Big Lift Trucks (BLT) has transformed its corporate identity with the launch of a new company name – BLTWORLD.

BLTWORLD MD Ken Mouritzen explains that the company – which has traded locally and internationally as BLT for over 20 years – needed to rebrand, in line with changes in the business model and an extended product profile.

“BLTWORLD, which represents the consolidation of different specialist divisions to form a single, unified brand, has been well received by our broad network of local and international suppliers, as well as our loyal customer base.

“The BLTWORLD team is proud of its rejuvenated identity that reflects the company’s sound structure and global offering of an extensive range of quality branded handling equipment.”

Through a carefully implemented expansion strategy, the company’s portfolio of container and bulk handling equipment now includes container handling and lifting solutions company Mobicon straddle carriers, equipment manufacturer Taylor Machine Works empty and loaded container handlers and reach stackers, as well as materials handling company Meclift variable reach trucks for swift and safe container stuffing and handling.

The company is also the exclusive distributor in Africa for bulk materials handling mobile solutions provider Samson range of bulk handling equipment, which includes material and boom feeders for loading and high capacity stockpiling, link conveyors and grab hoppers as well as mobile shiploaders. BLTWORLD also distributes heavy-duty machinery manufacturer MDS trammel screens and apron feeders for mineral processing and recycling applications.

New to the range are original-equipment manufacturer Five Watts light-emitting diode work lights, which ensure safety on site. Forklifts and materials handling products provider Liftec translifters and cassettes are used for horizontal heavy transportation in ports and industry to improve production flexibility and enhance safety for workers, cargo and equipment.

Terminal tractors, used to place trailers at offloading and loading docks, significantly enhance efficient logistics at dock areas. Yard management benefits, like reduced traffic congestion and faster handling speed, greater safety on site and operational flexibility, play a critical role in the logistics chain.

In response to demand from logistics and supply chain managers for improved efficiencies in distribution, warehousing, production facilities and trucking yards, BLTWORLD’s solutions services now encompass the rental option of shunting tractors.

There is a growing trend for companies to rent equipment, rather than make a substantial investment in new machinery, as banks around the world are offering limited finance options. For this reason, BLTWORLD supports its entire range of new and reconditioned machines with a rental option.

A maintenance programme designed to suit each customer’s requirements is tailored for optimum performance and extended service life of every machine.

The company also offers a technical advisory and original spare parts service to all sectors, including shipping, mining and quarrying, civil engineering and construction, general engineering and agriculture.