A SANY telehandler is helping to support modern site operations at Manby Storage Services in Louth, Lincolnshire.
Spread across 32 acres and comprising five large hangars, the business supports a range of activities, including LED lighting, third-party logistics, and ground maintenance services.
Managing such a varied operation requires versatile machinery capable of delivering consistent performance across multiple tasks – from heavy material handling to precision work at height.
At the heart of the fleet is a SANY STH1840 telehandler, which has become integral to daily site operations. Site director Sam Chapman explained that four or five operators utilise the machine every day.
“The feedback has been exceptional – they love the ease of use and, importantly, the comprehensive safety features built into the machine as standard,” he added.
The telehandler has proven particularly valuable during recent refurbishment work, including the re-roofing of hangars reaching heights of 15 to 16 metres. The machine’s lifting capability enabled the removal of steel sheeting at height, which SANY said delivered both cost and time savings for the firm compared to more traditional methods.
Beyond structural work, the telehandler assists in day-to-day material handling, from moving aggregates to handling palletised goods and incoming steel deliveries. With a lifting capacity of up to four tonnes, the machine is suited to unloading steel mesh and aluminium deliveries, while features such as adjustable pallet tines allow operators to work more efficiently without the need for manual adjustments.
Visibility and operator comfort have also been key factors in driving productivity. “The cab is spacious, the driving position is excellent, and you have clear visibility all the way around the machine,” Sam added. “That makes a huge difference when you’re working in busy environments.”
SANY is committed to integrating safety systems as standard. Features such as chassis sway allowing the machine to level itself on uneven ground are said to have had a direct impact on safety and performance.
“When you’re working on uneven terrain or loading at height onto scaffolding, the ability to level the machine automatically is a major advantage,” Sam said. “It’s improved both efficiency and operator confidence.”
This focus on standardisation has also simplified training and machine adoption across the team.
Manby’s decision to invest in SANY equipment was influenced by previous experience with the brand. The company had been operating a SANY SY80U excavator for around three years, with no faults. The telehandler has continued that positive experience, supported by a three-year, 3,000-hour warranty.
Another advantage has been the model’s mobility. Powered by an 80 kW engine, the machine is capable of travelling between sites without the need for additional transport equipment.
Manby is now considering expanding the SANY fleet further, including possibly another telehandler. “I would absolutely recommend SANY to other businesses,” Sam concluded. “The combination of value, reliability, and the level of standard features make a real difference in day-to-day operations.”
