By Juanita Pienaar.
Capital Equipment News spoke with Mark Webster, General Manager - Regional Dealer Network Southern Africa, Manitou Southern Africa, about how Manitou’s telehandlers are revolutionising material handling in South Africa’s construction industry.
Meeting the demands of a growing market
Despite a decline in the construction sector since 2020, the South African construction equipment market is set for growth in the coming years. Efficient and versatile material handling solutions are more crucial than ever, and Manitou’s range of telehandlers is designed to meet these evolving needs.
Manitou’s telehandlers provide a versatile and highly efficient alternative to traditional lifting and loading equipment. “Manitou telehandlers are specifically designed to overcome many of the challenges construction companies face, such as limited space, difficult terrain, and the need to reach elevated areas or confined spaces,” says Mark Webster. Their ability to navigate rough terrain, coupled with multiple steering modes, makes them an invaluable asset on any job site.
Versatility and efficiency on the job site
Manitou telehandlers stand out due to their extensive range of attachments, allowing them to handle various tasks with ease. “With a vast array of available attachments, such as forks, buckets, jibs, and personnel cages, a Manitou telehandler is somewhat of a Swiss Army knife on the construction site,” Webster explains.
In addition to their adaptability, Manitou’s machines boast impressive capabilities. The company offers telehandlers with lifting capacities of up to 33 tons and maximum lifting heights of 35 metres. “Manitou also offers a range of 360-degree rotational telehandlers, eliminating the need for frequent machine repositioning, thus saving time and increasing productivity,” he adds.
Built for durability and safety
Reliability is a critical factor in construction equipment, especially given the harsh conditions of South African job sites. “Manitou telehandlers are engineered with high-strength materials and heavy-duty components to withstand the toughest environments,” Webster notes. Before leaving the factory, each machine undergoes rigorous static and dynamic testing to ensure optimal performance.
Safety is also a top priority for Manitou. “All our telehandlers come packed with safety features such as ergonomic cabs, stability control, and load monitoring systems,” says Webster. The combination of these features ensures that operators can work more safely and efficiently, reducing the risk of accidents on site.
Key models available in South Africa
Manitou offers a variety of telehandlers suited to the South African construction sector, with key models including the MT-X 1840, MT-X 1440, and MXT1740 models. These machines feature 4-wheel drive capability and three different steering modes (2-wheel, 4-wheel, and crab), allowing for seamless movement in various site conditions.
“The Manitou MRT-X range of rotating telehandlers allow operators to pick and place construction material within a 360-degree radius without moving the machine. This enhances efficiency and decreases site establishment costs,” Webster explains. By adding attachments such as a hydraulic winch with a carrying capacity of up to 6 tons, these telehandlers can even replace cranes in certain applications.
Return on investment: Owning vs. renting
One of the biggest considerations for construction companies is whether to purchase or rent equipment. According to Webster, investing in a Manitou telehandler provides long-term cost benefits, including lower operating costs, increased productivity through customisation, and potential tax deductions. “Over time, the depreciation of the asset could result in tax benefits, and when the asset needs to be replaced, it could attract a good resale value,” he explains.
However, rental options also offer advantages, such as conserving capital, controlling expenses, and accessing the latest machines without worrying about repair and maintenance costs. “With rental, there’s no need to carry the cost of technicians or dispose of assets at the end of their life cycle,” he adds.
Future innovations and market growth
As the South African construction sector continues to evolve, Manitou remains committed to innovation. The company is constantly refining its telehandler range to improve efficiency, safety, and adaptability. “Fuel efficiency is dependent on lifting, loading, and carrying cycles, which vary between building sites. However, Manitou is always working on enhancements to improve cost savings and performance,” Webster notes.
With a growing market and increasing demand for versatile equipment, Manitou’s telehandlers are set to play a crucial role in the future of construction in South Africa. Whether through increased efficiency, cost savings, or enhanced safety, these machines provide a solid investment for construction businesses looking to stay ahead of the curve.
