Since opening its site in Bonneville, Haute-Savoie, French timber merchant Lalliard has relied on four electric HUBTEX MAXX 45 multidirectional sideloaders for its timber logistics. After comparing several technologies, including conventional counterbalance forklifts, the family-run company chose HUBTEX for the specific requirements of long-load handling in the timber trade.
Founded in 1921, Lalliard opened its “Pôle Structure” in Bonneville around a century later as a dedicated site for professional customers. With 8,500 m² of covered space, 25 employees and four to five HGV movements per day, the facility operates both as a timber warehouse and as a processing centre for timber construction.
Safe handling in narrow aisles
The MAXX 45 trucks are used for solid timber, glulam, roof beams, rafters, squared timber and wood-based panels. The loads measure up to 13 metres in length and weigh between 4.0 and 4.5 tonnes. Equipped with long-load fork carriers and triplex masts for high storage heights, the vehicles help Lalliard make better use of vertical storage capacity while maintaining safe handling in narrow aisles.
A key advantage is the multidirectional steering system in combination with HUBTEX’s patented 360° HX steering. The trucks can change smoothly between longitudinal and transverse travel without stopping. This reduces unnecessary manoeuvring, improves handling efficiency and helps minimise tyre wear. The vehicles are used indoors and outdoors, particularly for the precise loading and unloading of HGVs.
The ergonomic cab gives operators a clear view of the load and travel path, while the multifunction display provides access to relevant vehicle data. Drivers particularly value the manoeuvrability, precise handling and comfortable cab design.
Service availability was also decisive. The proximity of HUBTEX France, spare parts availability and a maintenance contract support reliable operation. After almost five years in use, Lalliard reports 98% truck availability.
“We have been able to optimise storage height and gain valuable space in our warehouses. These trucks combine innovative progress with economic efficiency and are an ideal alternative to diesel or gas-powered vehicles,” says Thomas Boudy, Head of Pôle Structure Bois at Lalliard.
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