ISO 23308-3:2020

Overview

ISO 23308-3:2020 specifies a standardized test method for measuring energy consumption of container handling lift trucks. Part of the ISO 23308 series on energy efficiency of industrial trucks, this document defines test conditions, measurement procedures and an operating cycle tailored to container handlers (as defined in ISO 5053‑1). The standard helps quantify energy use for both laden and empty container handlers, enabling consistent comparison of truck energy efficiency across models and manufacturers.

Key topics and requirements

• Scope and purpose: Measurement of energy consumption for container handling lift trucks to assess energy efficiency.
• Test conditions:
  • Travelling position requirements (operator visibility and container bottom ≤ 0.9 m above the seat index point per ISO 5353).
  • Laden container handler tested with a test load of 70% of rated load.
  • Empty container handler tested with a 20 ft container (height 2 591 mm, length 6.1 m) with minimum weight 2 200 kg.
  • Variable-reach trucks: boom fully retracted in travelling position; simultaneous lift and extension permitted during testing.
• Measurement procedure:
  • Measurement starts with the truck loaded, fully supported, twist locks engaged at travelling position (position A).
  • Defined operating cycle with positions A → B → C → D → A, including lift/lower sequences and turning actions.
  • Test parameters provided (example values): test duration 1 hour, travel distance 100 m per cycle layout, lift height about 4 m, and cycle rates (typical examples: 30 or 20 cycles/hour depending on configuration).
  • Restrictions: travelling not permitted during lift/lowering or reach/retracting; loads are lifted/lowered without depositing.
• Test set-up specifics: references to positional requirements from ISO 22915 series for stability and additional requirements in ISO 23308-1.

Practical applications

• Manufacturers: benchmark energy performance during product development and validate efficiency claims.
• Fleet managers and end users: compare models and optimize procurement based on measured energy consumption for container handling operations.
• Market surveillance and certification bodies: verify compliance with energy measurement protocols.
• Consultants and service providers: perform standardized energy audits and efficiency assessments for port and intermodal equipment.

Related standards

• ISO 23308-1 (General test methods for industrial truck energy efficiency)
• ISO 5053-1 (Terminology and classification for industrial trucks)
• ISO 668 (Freight container classification and dimensions)
• ISO 22915-9 / ISO 22915-12 (Stability verification for container-handling trucks)
• VDI 2198 (basis for test cycles used in industry)

Keywords: energy efficiency, industrial trucks, container handling lift trucks, energy consumption measurement, ISO 23308-3, test methods, container handler testing.