Forklift Pooling at Jurong Port: A Model for Sustainable Port Operations

The Shift to Forklift Pooling

Prior to 2021, Jurong Port’s general cargo operations involved multiple stevedoring companies each managing their own fleet of electric forklifts. This fragmented approach led to underutilization of equipment, increased operational costs, and challenges in maintaining consistent safety standards. In many cases, forklifts remained idle for long periods of time while other companies experienced bottlenecks, highlighting an imbalance in resource allocation. The duplication of fleets also meant higher maintenance costs, storage space requirements, and administrative complexity for each company.

Recognizing these inefficiencies, Jurong Port collaborated with 10 major stevedoring companies to centralize forklift management into a shared pool. This strategic move reduced the number of forklifts from 347 to 223 units, significantly lowering carbon emissions by approximately 188 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent annually. Beyond emissions, this consolidation also resulted in better fleet utilization rates, ensuring that forklifts are in active use rather than being left idle. The initiative also fostered stronger collaboration among stevedoring companies, encouraging a shift from competition to shared efficiency and collective responsibility.

Digital Transformation with EPMS

To streamline operations, Jurong Port introduced the Equipment Pooling Management System (EPMS). This digital platform allows stevedoring companies to book forklifts efficiently, while ground officers can allocate and monitor equipment usage in real-time. The EPMS has replaced manual processes, reducing administrative workload and enhancing transparency across operations.

The platform also provides data-driven insights that were not possible with the old system. Utilization rates, booking trends, and maintenance needs can now be tracked digitally, enabling predictive planning and more informed decision-making. For example, peak demand periods can be forecasted and additional resources can be allocated in advance, minimizing delays. With greater visibility into forklift usage, companies also gain assurance that the system is fair and equitable, eliminating disputes over resource allocation.

Standardization and Safety Enhancements

Standardizing equipment has been a cornerstone of the forklift pooling initiative. All forklifts in the pool are equipped with cameras and reverse sensors, ensuring consistent safety features across the fleet. This uniformity simplifies training for operators and enhances safety protocols, reducing the risk of accidents and improving overall workplace safety.

The centralization also ensures that forklifts are regularly maintained according to a single, standardized schedule. With one set of safety and maintenance requirements, Jurong Port is able to uphold higher compliance standards compared to when individual companies managed their own equipment. Training programs for forklift operators have also become more streamlined, as drivers only need to familiarize themselves with one standardized model, reducing learning curves and operational errors.

Environmental and Economic Benefits

The reduction in the number of forklifts has led to a 32% decrease in land usage, freeing up valuable space within the port. This optimization translates to an annual space revenue opportunity of approximately S$120,000. The freed-up space can also be reallocated for other operational needs such as storage, logistics flow, or future port development projects.

Moreover, the initiative supports Singapore’s commitment to environmental sustainability. By decreasing the carbon footprint associated with forklift operations, Jurong Port contributes to the nation’s green port efforts and aligns with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore’s sustainability objectives. The long-term benefits extend beyond emissions reduction—lower fuel and electricity consumption, less waste from parts replacement, and reduced noise pollution all contribute to a healthier port ecosystem.

The Role of Electric Forklifts

As part of its commitment to sustainability, Jurong Port is exploring the integration of electric forklifts into its operations. Electric forklifts offer several advantages, including lower emissions, reduced noise pollution, and lower maintenance costs compared to traditional internal combustion engine forklifts. In Singapore, the adoption of electric forklifts is gaining momentum as industries seek to align with green initiatives and regulatory requirements.

The transition also demonstrates Jurong Port’s proactive approach to future-proofing its operations. By investing in clean energy solutions and preparing infrastructure to support electric vehicle charging, the port sets the stage for broader electrification of equipment in the coming years. This move not only supports national sustainability goals but also positions Jurong Port as a leader in regional green logistics practices.

A Model for the Region

Jurong Port’s initiative serves as a model for other ports and logistics hubs in Asia, demonstrating that collaborative efforts and digital solutions can lead to significant improvements in efficiency, safety, and sustainability. The success of forklift pooling highlights how industry stakeholders can come together to solve common challenges, reduce redundancies, and achieve shared benefits.

As the logistics industry becomes more competitive and sustainability expectations rise, other ports may look to Jurong Port as an example of how to balance operational efficiency with environmental responsibility. This case study underscores the importance of innovation, collaboration, and digital transformation in building the next generation of smart, sustainable ports.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is forklift pooling?

Forklift pooling is the practice of centralizing and sharing forklifts across multiple operators instead of each company owning its own fleet. This improves utilization, lowers costs, and reduces environmental impact.

How does the EPMS benefit operations?

The Equipment Pooling Management System (EPMS) digitizes booking and monitoring, reducing paperwork, ensuring fairness, and providing real-time visibility into equipment usage. It also supports data-driven decision-making for better resource planning.

Why is standardization important in forklift operations?

Standardized safety features and equipment models make operator training easier, reduce risks of accidents, and simplify maintenance schedules, ensuring consistent operational safety across the port.

What are the long-term sustainability goals of Jurong Port?

Jurong Port aims to reduce carbon emissions, optimize land usage, and adopt electric forklifts to align with Singapore’s green initiatives. The pooling system also serves as a foundation for future smart-port solutions.