Complete docking systems for crossdock and coldstore Maersk

On Maasvlakte II in Rotterdam, work is in progress on the realization of a logistical tour de force: the cross-dock and cold store of logistics service provider Maersk. This project also includes a role for Hörmann Netherlands.

The Hörmann Group is a growing international company for the building materials industry. Forty highly specialized plants produce garage doors, doors, frames, door systems for commercial construction, operators, access control systems and storage systems for Europe, North America and Asia. With over 6,000 employees worldwide, the family-owned company generates sales of more than 1 billion euros.

Gateway to the coldstore

Hörmann is realizing the industrial door systems and dock equipment. "For us, this is one of the larger projects," says Marcel de Leeuw, project manager at Hörmann. "We install the dock doors first and then the loading locks. This way you can load and unload outside the building and have a closed passageway against the building. Then we install an inflatable dock shelter. This allows several trucks to dock optimally, optimizes temperature separation and minimizes energy loss."

"We provide a piece of safety for the drivers and everyone working around the dock. We install a system where docking is safe and smooth. The docked truck is detected. After placement and recognition of the wheel lock, the traffic light turns red. Then the dock door opens and the shelter closes around the truck. When the driver is ready, the dock door is closed, the shelter disconnected and the wheel lock removed. Then the light turns green and the driver can drive off safely."

Hörmann is also installing fire doors and three optimally insulating refrigerator-freezer doors in the building. "Specially developed for this type of situation and applicable where work is done with extremely low temperatures." 

Out of the comfort zone

"This is not a straightforward project. We are on the Maasvlakte, on the coast. The weather conditions, such as wind gusts, are a big challenge," according to De Leeuw. "But that also makes it fun. We like to think along with the customer and together with our factories we provide expert advice. We see this as our added value and enjoy doing it!"