Sverdrup Steel Reduces Trailer Loading Time from Hours to Minutes with Automated Solution at New Service Centre

LoadPlate® semi-automated loading solution by Actiw, a subsidiary of The Joloda Hydraroll Group, has been installed at Sverdrup Steel’s new service centre in Denmark to improve loading efficiency, reduce operational costs, minimise product damage, and enhance safety.

Sverdrup Steel is a global supplier of stainless steel and nickel-based alloys with more than 30 years of expertise in materials technology. Known for its quick delivery and high quality standards, the company serves industries such as oil and gas, manufacturing, and renewable energy.

In early 2024, Sverdrup Steel announced its new 13,000 sqm service centre in Hedensted, Denmark. Strategically located near Europe, Scandinavia, and the UK, the facility is designed to streamline logistics, enhance alloy processing, and demonstrate Sverdrup Steel’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and exceptional service.

 

The Challenge: Handling Heavy Containers in Adverse Weather

Sverdrup Steel faced several challenges when loading containers at its service centre in Kløfta, Norway, due to the size and weight of products, with some items weighing several tonnes. Loading these high-performance alloy materials was labour-intensive and time-consuming, often causing inefficiencies and delays. The process also posed safety risks –personnel manoeuvring heavy goods using forklifts near other machinery was increasing the likelihood of accidents.

Beyond inefficiencies and safety considerations, maintaining product integrity was a critical issue. At its Kløfta service centre, Sverdrup relied on forwarders or contractors to move and load the material from the harbour and into the containers. The material needed to be loaded outside of the warehouse in the open-air, regardless of weather conditions. In Scandinavia, the weather is constantly shifting, and it can become very cold and rainy. Sudden temperature changes and wet conditions from rain or snow result in condensation/ humidity, which can damage steel products.

 

The Solution: Optimising Loading Operations to Minimise Risks

When developing its new service centre, Sverdrup Steel sought a system that could optimise loading operations while ensuring consistent quality and modern standards.

Actiw’s LoadPlate® semi-automated loading solution emerged as the perfect fit. It allowed Sverdrup Steel to bring its loading operations in-house, gain full control of the supply chain, and seamlessly integrate the solution into its state-of-the-art facility.

To protect product integrity, Sverdrup installed the LoadPlate® system indoors under a controlled climate. This eliminated risks associated with weather exposure and temperature extremes, ensuring their high-value products are delivered in pristine condition every time.

 

Results: One-Shot Loading in Under Five Minutes

Sverdrup Steel’s new service centre is fully operational as of January 2025. The introduction of LoadPlate® has ensured loading operations there are efficient, safe and cost effective.

The loading process, which once took hours, now takes under five minutes, significantly improving vehicle turnaround times and streamlining supply chain operations. Labour costs have been cut considerably, as the system requires just one operator and eliminates the need for forklifts or external contractors. LoadPlate®’s electric operation also reduces energy costs and environmental impact.

By reducing the need for personnel near heavy machinery during loading, the system has minimised the risk of accidents. Its precise, automated operation has nearly eliminated product damage, addressing a major pain point with traditional methods.

Loading indoors under a controlled environment has been another game-changer, protecting goods from adverse weather conditions and temperature fluctuations. Sverdrup Steel’s products now consistently arrive at their destination in perfect condition.

Mats Benson, Chief Operation Officer at Sverdrup Steel, commented: “LoadPlate has transformed our operations—loading that used to take hours now takes minutes. The reduction in labour and equipment costs has been substantial, and most importantly, we’ve improved safety standards, which is a top priority for us.”

 

Conclusion

The installation of LoadPlate® has had a transformative impact on container loading operations at Sverdrup Steel’s new service centre. By addressing inefficiencies, reducing costs, and enhancing safety, LoadPlate® has optimised workflows and reinforced Sverdrup Steel’s position as leader in quality and operational excellence.