One of the world’s top eight forklift manufacturers, China-based Hangcha has a presence in Southeast Asia, Australia, Europe, the Netherlands, Brazil, Mexico, and the United States. A few years ago, the company welcomed Hangcha Forklift Canada Inc. to the fold, attracting new and repeat customers alike.

Dedicating itself solely to forklifts in 1974, Hangcha’s reputation for reliability, service, and support is unmatched in the industry. Selling its many products through a dealer network from coast to coast, Hangcha provides extensive certified training to ensure employees operate its equipment safely and worry-free. Growing to approximately 5,100 employees globally, Hangcha today sells over 400,000 new forklifts every year and shows no sign of slowing down.

Building on its global success, the Hangcha Group established Hangcha America in 2017, followed by Canada just two years later. “It was going very well, so they wanted to continue coming into North America, and coming into Canada was the next step,” says Louanne Rioux, Sales and Marketing Director. This enabled the company to bypass an importer and establish itself as Canada’s official distribution centre for Hangcha forklifts.

In just five years, the company has grown to 35 employees in Canada. Headquartered in Montréal, the company has warehouses in Vancouver, British Columbia, and the Greater Toronto Area in Mississauga, Ontario.

Forklifts and aerial equipment for every need
At Hangcha, the company serves clients of all types and sizes, ranging from relatively small operations to Fortune 500 companies.

“We’re selling to everybody,” says National Sales Director John Sedlacek. “You name it, we’re selling it. This includes automotive, warehousing, retail, the food industry, cosmetics, and more. We’ve touched just about every segment out there. If you need to move it, we sell it.” In fact, Hangcha Canada was one of the official forklift suppliers for the Canadian Grand Prix in Montréal in 2023 and 2024.

To meet every need, Hangcha Canada provides both internal combustion- and lithium-ion-powered forklifts as well as a full lineup of aerial equipment. These range from Class I electric-powered forklifts—perfect for general warehouse retail and food storage applications—to large Class VII forklifts. Also known as rough terrain forklifts, rugged Class VII are well-suited for outdoor applications such as construction sites where surfaces are uneven.

“One of Hangcha’s greatest strengths is that we’re a full-line manufacturer, so we have forklifts for any and every need,” says Rioux. This includes the company’s extensive line of innovative lithium-ion material handling equipment. Representing the next generation of power, Hangcha provides customers with a wide range of electric forklifts, narrow aisle trucks, electric walkie/rider trucks, and tow tractors.

On the forklift side, this includes the 3-Wheel Electric Lithium-Ion Forklift 1,000-1,700 lbs. and the Electric Lithium-Ion Cushion Tire Forklift 4,000-6,500 lbs., up to the high-capacity forklifts of the X Series 4 Wheel Pneumatic Forklift ranging from 22,000 lbs. to 100,000 lbs.

From narrow aisle trucks like the Medium Level Stock Picker 1,000 lbs. to the Electric Lithium-Ion Heavy Duty Tow Tractor with a 44,000-70,000 lbs. capacity, Hangcha Canada has it all. “There is so much product,” says Sedlacek. “We do everything. And if we don’t do it, we’ll make it.”

Some products at the larger end, such as the 4WD Rough Terrain Forklift, “were developed on the basis of the XF series of Hangcha,” says the company. “It adopts the Deutz engine, which is powerful and reliable, and easy to maintain.”

With an 11,000-pound capacity, the 4WD Rough Terrain Forklift boasts a powerful 3.6-litre Deutz/Tier 4F-compliant engine, reinforced truck chassis with CAE simulation software, PVC roof, rear working light and strobe light, emergency switch, and many more standard features.

Opening up power options
When the company’s National Sales Director Sedlacek entered the forklift industry about 25 years ago, he says the market was evenly divided, with about 50 percent internal combustion and 50 percent electric. Today, the market has shifted to approximately 80 percent electric and 20 percent internal combustion, including propane and diesel.

This September, the company launches its first lithium-ion rough terrain unit in Canada. A welcome addition to Hangcha’s ever-expanding fleet, this move furthers the company’s commitment to offering customers a choice of power options.

“At Hangcha, we have all the propane and diesel available, and we are also leaders when it comes to the alternative,” says Sedlacek. “If you need lithium, we have it all in lithium. So customers have both choices.”

An eye on safety
Known for its wide selection of quality products, Hangcha also has a sterling reputation for safety. With the mission of making material handling simpler, safer, and more efficient, the company has many add-ons available. These include a pedestrian safety system as an option on its forklifts—if a human is detected, the forklift will notify the operator or stop to prevent injury.

Customers can also choose to incorporate the company’s unique fleet management system software. Recently launched, this system enables clients who have many forklifts to know precisely where they are at all times, what they are doing, and how they are being operated. And of course, all units coming into Canada are equipped with the standard Canadian package, which includes features such as seatbelts, horns, and rearview mirrors.

Stellar support
One of Hangcha’s greatest strengths compared to other manufacturers is its ability to quickly supply parts for its products. With over $1 million in inventory, the company has more than 10,000 available parts ready for speedy shipment. This means less downtime for customers, and the ability to get their machines up and running as fast as possible.

“We are the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and have factory support directly in Canada for our dealers and our customers, which a lot of manufacturers don’t have,” says Sedlacek, “and we have stock on hand. We are continuously running anywhere from 500 to 700 units in stock in Canada at any given time, which is a massive investment, and no one is doing that except Hangcha. So availability is a huge win for us,” he says.

“We also have great pricing, so when you pay, the value of what you’re getting is substantially greater than our competition.”

Another key advantage of dealing with Hangcha is delivery. Any equipment that needs to be specially ordered arrives in just four to five months. This is a fraction of the time compared to other companies, which can take a year and a half to two years for delivery.

Five years of progress
This October marks the fifth anniversary of Hangcha Canada. The company recently had dealers and attendees from China come for the grand opening of its massive new 108,000-square-foot warehouse in Quebec, just 30 minutes west of Montréal, which saw the launch of several new products.

The new facility also has a comprehensive 30,000-square-foot parts department, which means Canadian companies can receive spare or replacement parts quickly. Across all locations, Hangcha Canada now boasts about 150,000 square feet of combined warehouse space.

As Rioux says, “We are going to continue growing and are doing extremely well.”

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With a rich history rooted in racing and a diverse product line that caters to various needs, Outlaw Eagle Manufacturing has carved out a niche in the highly competitive boat manufacturing industry. The company’s product offerings are divided into two main categories: Outlaw Marine and Eagle Performance. These two product lines cater to different customer needs, from fishing and hunting boats to high-performance vessels designed for thrill-seekers.

Outlaw Marine began by specializing in practical, rugged boats designed for fishing and hunting, and has since evolved to include larger and more luxurious models. These boats continue to prioritize functionality, offering everything from utilitarian fishing vessels to fully outfitted interiors with custom paint options. Whether navigating lakes or exploring challenging braided rivers, Outlaw Marine boats are engineered to perform effectively in diverse environments.

On the other hand, the Eagle Performance line is all about speed and excitement. These boats are equipped with powerful motors and are designed for those who seek adrenaline-pumping experiences on the water. The Eagle Performance boats are known for their speed, agility, and sleek designs, making them ideal for customers who prioritize performance and style. These vessels are not just about getting from point A to point B; they’re about enjoying the journey with high-powered engines and top-notch features.

Outlaw Eagle’s roots in the racing community have significantly influenced its product development. Initially focused solely on racing, the company’s commitment to speed, fuel efficiency, and superior design has persisted throughout the years. The Eagle Racing brand within Outlaw Eagle has become synonymous with success, boasting a trophy cabinet filled with accolades from around the world. In fact, Eagle boats are considered some of the most decorated in the racing world, with an impressive number of world championships to their name.

The racing heritage of Outlaw Eagle is not just a point of pride; it serves as a constant source of innovation. The knowledge and experience gained from building racing boats is applied to the company’s other product lines, ensuring that every boat that leaves the factory is built to perform at the highest level. This commitment to excellence is what sets Outlaw Eagle apart from its competitors.

Beyond recreational and performance boats, Outlaw Eagle Manufacturing has established itself as a trusted partner for commercial and government projects. The company’s commercial line includes boats built for various industries, including oil and gas, search and rescue, and law enforcement. Outlaw Eagle has a proven track record of delivering high-quality boats to clients such as the RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police) and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans.

These commercial and government projects require a different level of craftsmanship and precision. Outlaw Eagle is a certified government vendor, meaning the company meets the rigorous standards required for government contracts. Whether building boats for search and rescue missions or for use in the oil fields, Outlaw Eagle ensures that its products are durable, reliable, and capable of performing under the most demanding conditions.

One of the standout features of Outlaw Eagle Manufacturing is its full-service approach. The company doesn’t just build boats; it offers comprehensive in-house services that cover everything from fabrication to final assembly. This allows the team to maintain strict quality control and ensure that every boat meets their high standards.

Outlaw Eagle’s team of skilled welders and fabricators are the backbone of the company. With many team members boasting over a decade of experience, they have the expertise to create strong, durable boats that can withstand the harshest conditions. The company is certified through the Canadian Welding Bureau, which means it exceeds industry standards for welding quality, and this commitment to excellence is evident in every boat it produces.

The cutting and forming department, meanwhile, is where the magic begins. Using state-of-the-art technology, the team shapes aluminum sheets into the components that will eventually form the hulls and other critical parts of the boats. Precision is key in this department, as even the smallest error can impact the performance of the final product.

Once the components are ready, they move to the rigging and assembly department. Here, the boats begin to take shape as the team installs engines, electronics, and other essential features. This is a meticulous process that requires attention to detail and a deep understanding of boat mechanics. The team works closely with customers to ensure that boats are customized to their exact specifications.

Outlaw Eagle also boasts a full-service paint and upholstery department. These departments are responsible for giving the boats their final touches, ensuring they look as good as they perform. The paint department uses high-quality coatings to protect the boats from the elements, while the upholstery department creates comfortable, durable interiors. These finishing touches are what make Outlaw Eagle boats stand out from the competition.

And Outlaw Eagle’s commitment to customers doesn’t end when the boat leaves the factory. The company has one of the largest parts departments in North America, specializing in jet boat-related parts. This ensures that customers can easily find replacement parts when needed. Additionally, the service department is equipped to handle everything from routine maintenance to major repairs. With authorized service agreements with many major motor brands, Outlaw Eagle can service almost any aluminum jet boat.

What truly sets Outlaw Eagle Manufacturing apart from the competition is its customer-centric approach. The company prides itself on the ability to listen to customers and adapt to their needs. Because the team specializes in custom boats, they are not limited by a one-size-fits-all approach; instead, they work closely with each customer to ensure the boat meets their specific requirements. One customer, for example, requested a custom-built ladder for his boat to accommodate his elderly parents. Outlaw Eagle responded by designing and fabricating a sturdy, foldable ladder that seamlessly integrated into the boat’s design. Once this innovation was shared on social media, it quickly became a popular option among other customers, just one example of how Outlaw Eagle’s flexibility and willingness to innovate have helped it build strong relationships with customers.

Indeed, with a dedication to customer service extending beyond the initial purchase, Outlaw Eagle fosters long-term relationships with customers, ensuring they continue to receive support throughout their boat’s life. This commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in the numerous positive reviews and testimonials the company receives.

The success of Outlaw Eagle Manufacturing is a testament to the hard work and dedication of its team. With a team of around 30 to 35 employees, the company operates like a well-oiled machine. Many team members have been with the company for over a decade, and their experience and expertise are invaluable.

The team at Outlaw Eagle is more than just a group of employees; they are a family. This sense of camaraderie is fostered by the company’s leadership, which values open communication and mutual respect. Employees are encouraged to share their ideas and contribute to the company’s success. This collaborative environment has resulted in a team that is passionate about their work and proud of the products they create.

The pride that the team takes in their work is evident in the quality of the boats they produce. Outlaw Eagle’s boats are known for their durability, performance, and attention to detail, and this level of craftsmanship is only possible because of the dedication and expertise of the team.

Like any business, Outlaw Eagle Manufacturing has faced its share of challenges. The company operates in a market that is heavily influenced by economic conditions, and because many of its products are considered recreational, sales can fluctuate based on the state of the economy; during times of economic downturn, customers may be less likely to invest in a new boat.

However, Outlaw Eagle has proven to be resilient in the face of these challenges. During the COVID-19 pandemic, when many industries were struggling, Outlaw Eagle saw a surge in demand for its boats. While this was a positive development, it also presented challenges in terms of supply chain disruptions. The company had to adapt quickly, adjusting production timelines and finding alternative suppliers to keep up with the increased demand.

Communication was key during this time. Outlaw Eagle made it a priority to keep customers informed about potential delays and supply chain issues. By being transparent and proactive, it was able to maintain customer trust and continue delivering high-quality products.

As the industry continues to evolve, Outlaw Eagle Manufacturing remains committed to staying ahead of the curve. The company is constantly exploring new technologies and materials to improve its boats’ performance and durability. The team is also paying close attention to changing customer preferences, ensuring that its products remain relevant in a competitive market.

One trend that Outlaw Eagle has noticed is the growing demand for high-end, feature-rich boats. Customers are no longer just looking for a basic boat; they want a vessel that offers luxury and performance. Outlaw Eagle is well-positioned to meet this demand; thanks to its expertise in custom boat building, the company can create boats that are not only functional but also stylish and comfortable.

Another area of growth for the company is its commercial and government contracts. As industries like oil and gas continue to expand, there will be a growing need for reliable, high-performance boats, and Outlaw Eagle’s reputation for quality and durability makes it a preferred partner for these industries.

Outlaw Eagle Manufacturing has established itself as a leader in the aluminum jet boat industry. With a diverse product line, a commitment to quality, and a customer-centric approach, the company has earned the trust and loyalty of its customers. Whether building a boat for a recreational user or a government agency, Outlaw Eagle delivers products that are built to perform and built to last.

As it looks to the future, the company remains dedicated to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction, ensuring that it will continue to be a force in the industry for many years to come.

The post Crafting Excellence in Aluminum Jet Boats<p class="company">Outlaw Eagle Manufacturing</p> appeared first on Manufacturing In Focus.

The good news for the global maritime market is, thankfully, readily apparent. According to the Shipbuilding Market 2024 Report, shipbuilding worldwide is anticipated to rise for the rest of this decade as the market continues to grow steadily. While China leads the pack with about 40 percent market share, South Korea is not far behind at 35 percent. Among the top shipbuilding companies are names like the China Shipbuilding Group Corporation, KSOE (Hyundai Heavy Industries), and Daewoo Shipbuilding, among others.

A report for BRS Shipbrokers says that, currently, China is the leader in the global shipbuilding market and has been for over a decade now, with even more growth occurring post-pandemic. China’s shipyards are anticipated to stay strong for the remainder of the decade as demand persists for newer vessels as well as ones made from low-carbon materials. When it comes to South Korea, Brian Gincheru Kinyua for The Maritime Executive says that the country’s shipbuilding efforts were supported by the government between the 1960s and the 2000s, enabling rapid production during times of slowdown for other countries, a trend that continues today.

Over on the western front, North America is seeing considerable differences in fortune between two of its major countries. Canada’s efforts in shipbuilding have been driven by the National Shipbuilding Strategy, a long-term initiative to revitalize the industry and produce greater economic benefits to the country at large. Following over a decade of slowdown for the sector, as well as an outdated roster of ships and inaccessible supply lines, the federal government implemented the strategy in 2010. It has been focused on the construction of large vessels (1000 tons and over), small vessels (under 1000 tons), and the repair, refitting, and maintenance of vessels.

The strategy has seen great success so far, thanks to placements like the Irving Shipyard in Halifax, Nova Scotia. In a press release in late 2023, Vice President of Production Nancy Lochhead reported that the quality of the shipyard’s work has improved greatly. “Our first-time quality standard, which stood at 80 percent in 2020, has soared to an outstanding 97 percent across all disciplines in 2023.” Lochhead also shared that safety performance has exceeded industry benchmarks by over 50 percent and injury rates have decreased by 13 percent, which has further emboldened workers in the industry.

Despite its best efforts, Canada’s shipbuilding industry was one of the many sectors affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and, while it is beginning to recover, there is still a degree of volatility to the market that could prove challenging as time goes on. Meanwhile in the United States, the outlook is a bit less positive. In an article for McKinsey & Company, authors Weddle, Cassaday, Mellors, Brukardt, Voelker, and Plum say that overall shipbuilding production in America has fallen to new lows because of the decline in commercial production. “U.S. shipbuilding output has decreased by more than 85 percent since the 1950s, while the number of American shipyards capable of building large vessels has fallen by more than 80 percent.”

However, mainstream customers of the industry like the U.S. Navy are continuing to spend, calling for the construction of over 300 new ships by 2053, so time may be a crucial factor in producing a turnaround for the country’s shipbuilding fortunes.

Shipbuilding is one of many business sectors globally that are beginning to embrace new technologies and changes to the old ways of doing things. Ben Hayden for WorkBoat says that some of the newest trends for shipbuilding will be the use of VR (virtual reality) and AR (augmented reality) technology. These technologies will enable interaction with ship designs in virtual environments through realistic simulations and tests, which can also help develop new training and safety protocols. OMS (Optimum Maritime Solutions) is one such company employing the use of VR for training purposes, while Finnish company Wartsila is innovating the use of wearable AR gear as a form of preventative measure for ship operations.

StartUs Insights reports that advanced robotics are also on the rise for the industry, especially as automation picks up in global construction markets to aid workers and speed up lead times. This movement includes companies like MarineLabs, which announced this year that the largest investment in Canadian history for an ocean tech company was made for its round of seed funding, a figure of $4.5 million.

A report for the website SeaSpan says that this investment will, among other things, be directed into the company’s CoastAware product, which is real-time weather intelligence technology that provides accurate and timely weather condition data. SeaSpan says that a product like CoastAware will not only benefit the shipbuilding industry from a logistical standpoint but also continually combat and circumvent the effects of climate change on today’s oceans.

Another newer method for companies to better predict and understand ongoing environmental factors in shipping is using AI (artificial intelligence). Although a controversial subject for some industries, shipbuilding startups are looking to leverage the use of AI in predictive analysis of weather patterns, ocean environments, and traffic management in shipyards.

AI can even help to promote a greater degree of ecologically sound developments for ships, including algorithms that can optimize fuel usage and improve route planning, making sure that ships only use as much as needed for a given assignment. Chinese company Clearbot is one such that uses ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) metrics to monitor and improve environmental sustainability goals in the industry with AI tools.

Indeed, sustainable practices are also becoming a growing factor in shipbuilding as organizations across all kinds of industries work to meet the expectations of clientele that are environmentally minded. A report for Spherical Insights says that green shipping is the name for this up-and-coming market trend: “Green shipping focuses on environmentally friendly transportation, warehousing, and distribution to minimize environmental impact.”

Many startups in the industry aim to develop alternative clean fuels as well as other renewable energy solutions so that today’s ships can significantly reduce the risk of environmental pollution. U.S.-based company Amogy has developed an energy system that runs on ammonia for fuel, while Fleetzero is looking to introduce zero-emission electric container ships into the fleets of today.

The ongoing development and improvement of the shipbuilding industry is on the minds of many as the decade rolls on, especially amid eye-catching news items like the 2021 Suez Canal tanker incident and the ever-looming spectre of the climate crisis remaining fixed in the minds of many worldwide. Although not every issue or problem can be predicted or outright taken care of with immediacy, shipbuilders worldwide are using novel and exciting ideas to propose solutions to age-old problems as the industry continues to gain steam and become recognized as an essential spoke on the wheel for some of the biggest players on the world stage.

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