The fleet of Haeger & Schmidt Logistics (HSL) includes the self-developed heavy-lift barge Fortitudo. HSL branch manager Toni Nicolay coordinates the unique barge operations from its home port of Weil am Rhein. In an interview with Insight, he introduces the Peniche, on which he has already sailed himself as the holder of a Rhine navigation patent.
Why does inland navigation need a heavy-lift barge like the Fortitudo?
The Peniche is designed in such a way that it can transport heavy cargo and bulky cargo of up to 300 t directly via the inland waterway and canal network, which alternatively has to be transported in short sea shipping at great expense via the Atlantic. The Fortitudo shows its strengths particularly on the waters of France. The current sailing area also includes Germany, Austria and the Benelux countries.
What makes the Peniche so interesting for logistics projects in France?
We have optimised our heavy-lift barge to the millimetre for the French canal network. The dimensions are aligned with the French lock specifications. A classic Peniche in France loads about 220 tons with a permitted draught of 180 to 200 cm, whereas the Fortitudo loads 300 tons. The Fortitudo’s hold entrance width is 460 cm compared to the Peniche’s 380 cm.
How did the barge get its name?
The Latin word Fortitudo stands for strength and efficiency. Our heavy-lift barge combines both characteristics. Thanks to its shallow draught, the Fortitudo can move up to 300 t through the French canal network. The maximum load capacity is even 416 t. The built-in diesel hydraulic drive also ensures high agility.
What fans does the Fortitudo have among shippers?
The Fortitudo moves heavy and bulky goods in a niche market. Shippers from the energy sector in particular appreciate the new loading option. Transformers, boilers, silos, cooling reactors, rotors and transformers are some examples of cargo.
Is the heavy-lift solution by Fortitudo in line with the trend?
Absolutely. Ecological, economic and safety factors speak in favour of Fortitudo. Increasingly difficult permits and stricter regulations for special truck transports speak in favour of waterway transport. In addition, fewer transshipments are required than with combined truck/sea transport, and the transport time is about the same. The environmentally friendly variant also pays off financially compared to the truck-sea solution.