Second-hand container handlers from Kalmar, Hyster and SMV – direct from the specialists. A container handler (empty container handler) is a counterbalanced forklift fitted with a spreader instead of forks: It picks up 20- and 40-foot empty containers by their upper corner fittings and stacks them six to eight high – the ideal machine for container depots, repair workshops, empty container storage facilities in ports and industrial sites with their own container handling operations. We offer second-hand container forklifts from Hinrichs Flurfördergeräte in Oldenburg – with the year of manufacture, operating hours, load capacity and lift height specified in the listing.
Which container forklift is right for your handling operations?
Empty container forklifts 8 to 11 t: Kalmar DCG 100-45ED7, Hyster H11XD-ECD8, SMV ECB/ECC. Single-stack operation (one empty container per lift) up to 7 to 8 high with a load capacity of around 8 to 10 t. The standard choice for depots: light, manoeuvrable, economical.
Double stackers: Handle two empty containers at once – lifting capacity 15 to 18 t, spreader with twin function. For large depots where handling speed is crucial.
Heavy-duty forklifts with spreaders (20 to 45 tonnes): SMV 20-1200C, Kalmar DCG 330, Hyster H32XM – for full containers in one or two layers or for switching between fork and container operation. You can also find these machines under ‘Heavy-duty forklifts’.
Full containers up to the fifth layer and into the second row: this requires a reach stacker with a telescopic boom.
What we look for in a used container forklift
Spreader: twist locks and locking sensors, 20/40-foot telescoping, side shift, condition of the guides and hydraulic hoses on the spreader – at a height of 8 layers, everything depends on the locking indicator. Check whether the spreader is supplied with the forklift or was purchased separately (documentation!).
Mast: Container masts are tall (up to 20 m lift height) and generate corresponding leverage forces. Chain elongation, play in the mast sections, condition of the rollers and lift cylinders, unobstructed view through the mast.
Engine, transmission, axles, tyres: Industrial diesel with torque converter and planetary axles, as found on heavy-duty forklifts – cold start, smoke emissions, oil pressure, maintenance records. Tyres are a significant cost factor; check the tread depth and age.
Operating hours: Container forklifts at the depot operate in shifts; 15,000 to 20,000 hours with documented maintenance are normal. The maintenance history is crucial, not the hour meter reading.
Documentation and transport: Annual inspection in accordance with DGUV Regulation 68, CE marking, load capacity diagram for the forklift plus spreader. For transport, the mast is usually lowered or dismantled; from a height of approximately 4 m and a width of 3 m, this constitutes heavy goods transport requiring a permit.
| Type | Load capacity | Stacking height | Typical models |
|---|---|---|---|
| Empty container stacker (single) | 8–11 t | 6–8 high | Kalmar DCG 100-45ED7, Hyster H11XD-ECD8 |
| Empty container double stackers | 15–18 t | 6–8 high, two per lift | Kalmar DCG 160-9, Hyster H16XD-ECD |
| Heavy-duty forklift with spreader | 20–45 t | 1–2 high (full) | SMV 20-1200C, Kalmar DCG 330 |
| Reach stacker | 45 t (1st row) | 5 high, 2nd row | Kalmar DRF/DRG 450, Hyster RS46 |
Brands and dealers
Kalmar and Hyster are the most commonly used brands for empty container stackers in European depots, followed by SMV Konecranes. Our stock comes from Hinrichs Flurfördergeräte GmbH & Co. KG in Oldenburg – specialising in container handling equipment, with refurbishment and dispatch throughout Europe and beyond. Filter by manufacturer, load capacity, year of manufacture and operating hours.
Frequently asked questions about used container handlers
What is the difference between a container forklift and a reachstacker?
The container forklift lifts the container vertically using the mast and only stacks in the first row – but it is lighter, cheaper and more manoeuvrable. The reach stacker uses its telescopic boom to reach the second and third rows and can stack full containers up to five high. For empty containers in the depot, the container forklift is the more economical choice.
How much does a second-hand container forklift cost?
Factors affecting the price include year of manufacture, operating hours, stacking height, spreader specifications (single/double, side shift) and emissions standard. Most of our listings are ‘negotiable’ – enquire with your handling profile and we’ll provide you with a specific quote.
How high can an empty container forklift stack?
Depending on the mast, six to eight standard containers (8'6") on top of one another; for high-cube containers (9'6"), one layer fewer. Check the lift height in the advert against your stacking height and the clearance heights on site.
Can I also operate a container forklift with forks?
On dedicated empty container forklifts, the spreader is permanently fitted. Heavy-duty forklifts with a spreader attachment can be converted to fork operation – however, the residual load capacity will then decrease in accordance with the load capacity chart.
How many operating hours are still acceptable?
These machines are designed for 25,000 hours or more. With a full maintenance history, 15,000 to 20,000 hours is no problem; without proof of maintenance, caution is advised. Ask for a demonstration with a container at full height.
Can I lease a container forklift or finance it via hire purchase?
For many listings, you can submit a non-binding leasing or hire-purchase enquiry directly. You can clarify the terms with the dealer or their finance partner; the purchase and payment are arranged directly between you and the seller.
An overview of all types: Forklift trucks & industrial trucks · In-depth: Reachstacker or container forklift? · Terminal tractors for trailer handling.