Piggyback technology is a set of solutions that allows container reach stackers to be used also for semi-trailer handling. For this purpose, special lifting equipment with Piggyback clamps is used. These clamps consist of four vertical legs that pick up semi-trailers by means of special lifting pockets. This technology was originally developed for loading semi-trailers onto railway wagons to optimise road transport, unload motorways and reduce environmental impact.
There are two types of Piggyback equipment: integrated into container spreaders and in the type of attachments. The advantage of attachments is that they can be used with almost any lifting equipment, making the equipment more versatile. Reach stacker models equipped with Piggyback integrated spreaders stand out from standard models in several ways:
The Piggyback legs grip the semi-trailer at a height of approx. 1.5 metres above ground level. Due to the height of the chassis at the front of the reach stacker (approximately 2 metres) and the width of 4.2 metres, the operator’s view is severely restricted, making it difficult to grip the semi-trailer. To solve this problem, the operator’s cab is equipped with a longitudinal movement drive. The operator can move the cab forward by 2.4 metres, which greatly improves visibility and makes work easier. When the semi-trailer is finished picking up, the cab returns to its original position, providing optimum visibility when working with container stacks.
Unlike containers, which stand flat on the site, semi-trailers can be angled in different directions, making it difficult to grab load pockets. In addition, the side shift of the spreader results in unwanted tilting to the side, making it even more difficult to handle. To solve this problem, active longitudinal and lateral spreader tilt systems equipped with hydraulic cylinders are used. This allows precise adjustment of the spreader position and eliminates side tilting, providing a more stable and safer grip on semi-trailers.
Not all reach stackers are equipped with additional features to optimise semi-trailer handling, but Piggyback attachments have proven to perform well in real-world conditions. When used on standard reach stackers, performance is significantly lower than on specialised models. This solution is therefore suitable for companies with infrequent need to handle semi-trailers. In case of frequent or constant use, it is recommended to consider purchasing specialised reach stacker models, which are initially equipped with all the necessary equipment.
Although Piggyback technology was originally developed to handle semi-trailers, today a number of transport units and their means of transport have been adapted to this system:
Piggyback technology extends the capabilities of standard reach stackers and enables them to efficiently handle not only containers but also semi-trailers. However, for best results and consistent performance, it is important to choose a machine that is specifically designed for these applications.
