Port Tractors

Moving your goods demands pinpoint precision and real power every day. That's exactly where the port tractor comes in. Designed to transfer a trailer from one point to another in record time, this machine guarantees the smooth flow of your operations. Whether it's operating on an industrial site or managing the constant flow of cargo on the docks, its fifth-wheel hitch makes every maneuver effortless. Explore our models to find the machine perfectly suited to your business. Contact us to discuss your needs.

Understanding the role of the port tractor

The principle of the fifth wheel hitch

A true pillar of the handling industry, this machine stands out thanks to its unique design. Forget conventional road trucks; this is a vehicle designed to lift and pull monumental loads over very short distances. Its cab offers panoramic visibility and allows the driver effortless access. The secret to its efficiency lies in its quick-coupling system, ideal for saving precious minutes with every turn.

Very diverse environments

These machines adapt to radically different spaces. At a RoRo terminal, they ensure the loading of ships with astonishing agility, while simultaneously orchestrating the movement of trailers to storage areas. Is space limited in your logistics yard? Their ultra-short turning radius works wonders, even in the narrowest aisles. This is equipment forged for repetition and built to last.

Port, yard or park tractor: let's take stock

A question of the land

The names change, but the reality often remains the same. A yard or yard tractor primarily operates on land-based distribution platforms. It moves between loading docks and parking lots within a well-defined area. The real difference often lies beneath the tires: asphalt, concrete, paving stones—the machine easily handles the transitions between warehouses and vast outdoor spaces.

Intense work rhythms

The atmosphere changes on the docks, where the equipment is subjected to formidable stress. The chassis are heavily reinforced to withstand the weight of full containers. The objective is twofold: to work quickly while guaranteeing absolute safety for the forklift operator. The engine and rear axle therefore adapt naturally to the site's inclines and the tonnage to be hauled.

Discover our range dedicated to handling

Machines designed for continuous effort

Your production rates are high, and you need reliable equipment. We offer equipment built to last. Traction capacity, chassis robustness, fifth wheel travel—every detail counts. Whether you choose a diesel or electric engine, mechanical reliability remains our top priority. Our manufacturing partners share a common focus: facilitating access to parts. As a result, regular maintenance becomes much simpler, and your machines are never out of service.

Key features

• The Standard: Traction capacity of 70 to 90 tonnes, adjustable fifth wheel, internal combustion engine, perfect for land logistics.
• The Heavy: Capacity of 90 to 120 tonnes, reinforced fifth wheel, available in electric, designed for maritime terminals.
• The RoRo: Capacity exceeding 120 tonnes, fifth wheel and four-wheel drive, maximum power to tackle ship ramps.

New, used or electric: make the right choice

The zero-emission turning point

Fleets are going green, and that's a great development. Choosing electric vehicles allows you to comply with environmental standards while offering a real breath of fresh air for your warehouses. No more exhaust fumes, goodbye to deafening noise. For an urban site or work in a warehouse, this is a major advantage. Especially since today's batteries easily keep up thanks to high-performance fast-charging systems.

Buy according to your constraints

Investing in this type of equipment is not a decision to be taken lightly. Buying new guarantees you the latest innovations and maximum longevity for your fleet. Is your budget tighter or is your business just starting out? Used equipment is an excellent alternative. All our second-hand machines are thoroughly inspected and fully overhauled in our workshops. You leave with a machine ready to work, without breaking the bank.

SNM Conduct, Regulations and Monitoring

Who can drive?

Operating such a behemoth requires real skill. Is a CACES certification necessary? It all depends on your operating site. On private land closed to the public, a simple internal authorization signed by management may suffice, provided the staff has received thorough training. But let's be clear: completing official training ensures the safety of your teams and significantly reduces the risk of damage. We are here to help you review the regulations for your site.

A technical service that truly supports you

At SNM Heavy Handling, commissioning your machine is just the beginning. We understand the realities of your business. Having readily available parts and responsive technicians is what keeps your profitability high. Our experts come directly to your facilities to perform preventative maintenance. This close support ensures the reliability of your operations, day after day.

Logistics doesn't tolerate guesswork. SNM Heavy Handling takes the time to study how your sites operate to offer you the perfect configuration. Do you want to modernize your fleet or add an extra piece of equipment?

Request your personalized quote today and let's make your project a reality.

Buying a port tractor: new or used

Investing in new equipment

Need tobuy port tractors to boost your logistics? Opting for new equipment means choosing peace of mind. By choosing leading brands like Mafi, your fleet directly benefits from the latest technological innovations. Specifically, these are machines designed for demanding work rates, while ensuring operator comfort. The result: extended lifespan and minimal downtime.

The second-hand alternative

Sometimes, budgets are tighter, or you might be facing an unexpected surge in activity. In these situations, a used port tractor proves to be an excellent backup solution. At SNM Heavy Handling, we leave nothing to chance: our mechanics meticulously inspect each model before handing over the keys. You drive away with a fully serviced, guaranteed machine, ready to handle containers as soon as it arrives at the terminal. Furthermore, to avoid tying up your cash flow, we offer rental contracts starting from twelve months.

The switch to electric port tractors

Reduce emissions on your devices

Green logistics is no longer just a trend; it's a reality. Switching to electric port tractorsis a direct way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in your yards. It's also a significant advantage if you operate indoors under warehouses or in close proximity to residential areas. Say goodbye to exhaust fumes between aisles. Our role is precisely to guide you in finding the most suitable electric configuration for your site.

Silence without sacrificing performance

Removing the combustion engine radically changes the atmosphere on a dock. The drastic drop in noise level immediately relieves your forklift operators and makes team communication much smoother. And what about power? The latest generation of batteries ensures constant energy to power entire shifts without the slightest dip in performance. Add to that fast-charging systems, and the downtime of your equipment becomes almost negligible.

Versatility: from the maritime dock to the sorting center

Unbeatable handling

Each site has its own requirements. On land-based logistics platforms, a yard tractor or a yard tractor becomes essential. Thanks to its tight turning radius, maneuvering between closely spaced trailers becomes child's play. The operator can position loads with millimeter precision, which streamlines traffic flow in the yard and allows for a rapid pace of docking.

The formidable effectiveness of the saddle

The secret lies in the hitching system. A fifth-wheel tractor allows you to lock and lift enormous loads in seconds. The major advantage is that the driver manages everything from the cab. No more endless climbing up and down that causes fatigue and increases the risk of accidents. Added up over a day, this time saved truly boosts your center's productivity.

Technical and regulatory information to remember

What traction power should be expected?

This is obviously the central question when choosing your equipment. To give you an idea, the Mafi can pull up to 90 tons with the standard fifth wheel. Do you handle oversized loads? By combining a gooseneck with roll trailers, you increase the capacity even further. The heavily reinforced chassis withstand the most extreme torsional forces without flinching, even when traversing steep ramps.

CACES and required certifications

You can't just become a pilot of this type of vehicle overnight. The permits you need depend primarily on your operating area. The law doesn't require the same things whether you're driving on a public road or remaining strictly within a closed private property. To avoid administrative headaches, we'll review the current regulations with you. A well-trained team ensures the proper maintenance of equipment and the safety of your employees.

Handling massive tonnages daily leaves no room for error; you need robust machinery and reliable technical support. That's where the SNM Heavy Handling comes in, analyzing your actual operations to determine the right size. Whether your goal is to completely renew your fleet or simply rent a port tractor on short notice, we have the solution. Contact our consultants and let's discuss your project and get a quote.