Timber yards, panel product suppliers, and sawmill operations are under growing pressure to manage long and heavy loads with greater safety, efficiency, and reduced environmental impact. At Ligna 2025, Combilift responded to these industry demands by unveiling two significant innovations: the new Combi-FSE 8000 and the Combi-Xtender, both engineered to address these specific challenges.
The latest addition to Combilift’s four-wheel electric sideloader range, the Combi-FSE 8000, is purpose-built for timber handling, offering an 8-tonne lift capacity. It’s ideally suited for manoeuvring structural timber, sawn wood packs, panels, and engineered wood products in both confined indoor spaces and challenging outdoor environments.
Among its key benefits for timber applications are:
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Powerful, emission-free performance: Equipped with twin 18kW drive motors, the FSE 8000 delivers the torque and responsiveness needed for heavy timber packs, while its all-electric design makes it ideal for indoor use.
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Patented traction and steering system: Engineered for dependable operation throughout the year, even in muddy or uneven yard conditions.
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Exceptional visibility: With the battery positioned under the deck and extensive glazing, operators benefit from a clear view—especially valuable when reversing through narrow racking aisles or navigating busy sawmill zones.
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Fast battery exchange: Supports continuous, multi-shift operation in high-demand timber facilities.
Fleet managers can also take advantage of Combi-Connect, Combilift’s advanced telematics platform for real-time monitoring of machine performance and maintenance planning.
Unveiled alongside the sideloader, the Combi Load Xtender introduces a pantograph-style load extension mechanism that allows full loading or unloading of trailers and rail wagons from a single side—an important advantage for timber yards with restricted space or limited trailer access.
Key benefits of the Load Xtender for timber operations include:
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Single-side loading capability: Eliminates the need to reposition trailers or access both sides by allowing full timber packs to be handled from one side only.
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Ultra-low profile design: Its compact structure operates seamlessly beneath standard trailer heights without interference.
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Improved safety: Enables operators to load securely against the far, closed side of a trailer, minimising product fall risk and keeping staff away from high-traffic areas.
“These new solutions were developed in direct response to what we’re hearing from the timber sector,” said Martin McVicar, Combilift’s CEO. “Customers need to move larger loads in tighter spaces with greater safety and lower emissions. The FSE 8000 and Combi Load Xtender do just that – and they’re backed by Combilift’s proven track record in long-load innovation.”
