Electric container handlers get a charging upgrade

Rocsys and International Transportation Service (ITS) have deployed hands-free charging at the Port of Long Beach, advancing scalable port electrification and zero-emission operations.

The image shows the Taylor Machine Works container handler on charge at Long Beach

The partnership integrates hands-free charging technology with electric port equipment at the ITS terminal, enabling 24/7 opportunity charging for a Taylor Machine Works container handler.

“This deployment is an important step to demonstrate that hands-free charging is a critical enabler for ports seeking to meet long-term zero-emission operations,” said Polly Crispin, senior business development manager at Rocsys.

“Working with ITS and Taylor allows us to show how hands-free charging performs under real-world conditions, reducing downtime, improving operational efficiency and supporting the transition toward safer and zero emission terminal operations.” 

Charging efficiency

The deployment addresses operational bottlenecks associated with port electrification, including inefficient charging workflows, safety risks and underutilised infrastructure, supporting the transition to zero-emission terminal operations.

At the centre of the deployment is a Taylor ZLC-996 electric, human-operated container handler equipped with the Rocsys Smart Cover, enabling automated connection with the Rocsys hands-free charging device.

The system supports repeatable opportunity charging cycles within active terminal operations, ensuring consistent uptime for electric port equipment.

The Rocsys Platform combines hardware, software and service capabilities, including operational monitoring and integration with terminal IT systems, to enable scalable port electrification.

By reducing friction in charging processes and improving safety, the solution is designed to support high-throughput environments where efficiency is critical to expanding zero-emission operations.