Combilift launches two ground-breaking solutions for timber handling at Ligna 2025

New 8T Electric Sideloader and Combi Load Xtender Bring Unmatched Efficiency and Safety to Long-Load Operations

Timber yards, panel product suppliers and sawmill operations face ever-increasing pressure to handle long and heavy loads more safely, more efficiently and with less environmental impact. At LIGNA 2025, Combilift unveiled two major innovations designed specifically to meet these industry challenges: the new Combi-FSE 8000 and the Combi Load Xtender.

Combi-FSE 8000 

Combi-FSE 8000 – heavy-duty electric Sideloader for long loads

The latest addition to Combilift’s four-wheel electric sideloader range, the Combi-FSE 8000, offers an 8-tonne lift capacity – ideal for handling structural timber, packs of sawn wood, panels, or engineered wood products in confined indoor or outdoor environments.

Key timber-focused benefits include:

• Powerful, emission-free operation: Twin 18kW drive motors deliver the torque and responsiveness required for heavy packs, with all-electric performance ideally suited to indoor timber stores.

• Patented traction and steering: Designed for year-round reliability in muddy or uneven yard conditions.

• Unrivalled operator visibility: The under-deck battery position and expansive glazing provide a clear line of sight, especially when reversing in narrow racking aisles or busy sawmill loading areas.

• Quick battery change: Perfect for multi-shift operations in high-demand timber yards.

Fleet managers also benefit from Combi-Connect, Combilift’s advanced telematics system for real-time performance tracking and maintenance planning.

Combi Load Xtender 

Combi Load Xtender – game-changing one-side loading for timber yards

Unveiled alongside the sideloader, the Combi Load Xtender is a new pantograph-style load extender that enables complete loading and unloading of trailers or rail wagons from a single side – a major advantage in timber yards where space is tight or trailer access is restricted.

For timber operations, the Xtender delivers:

• One-side access: Load full packs of timber from one side only, eliminating the need to reposition trailers or access both sides.

• Ultra-low mechanism height: Its compact design ensures smooth movement and full functionality beneath standard trailer height without interference.

• Enhanced safety: Operators can load securely against the far (closed) side of the trailer, reducing the risk of product falls and keeping personnel out of busy traffic zones.

Purpose-built for the timber industry

“These new solutions were developed in direct response to what we’re hearing from the timber sector,” said Martin McVicar, CEO of Combilift. “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.”

Both products are now available to order, with live demonstrations running throughout LIGNA 2025.

More information & videos:

Combi-FSE 8000: https://combilift.com/fse-8000/

Combi Load Xtender: https://combilift.com/combi-load-xtender/

Combi-FSE 8000 video: https://youtu.be/7FSxCWF_Aj8

Combi Load Xtender video: https://youtu.be/XZEhQ1v9vVA