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About Us

 

For over 60 years, Harlan has supported various sectors, including industry, aviation, aerospace, hospitality, utilities, entertainment resources, and the military. Our expertise lies in designing and manufacturing ground support equipment, as well as designing and constructing components for Harlan Global tractors and similar ground support equipment. Our commitment is to provide the safest, most efficient, and cost-saving solutions. This unwavering dedication has earned us a solid reputation for delivering excellent performance and outstanding durability. Your ramp-side operation demands the seamless coordination of multiple logistical activities.  

 

Based on our ISO-certified facilities in Kansas City, Kansas, we take pride in producing OEM parts that seamlessly integrate with a wide range of Ground Support Equipment (GSE) models. Our vehicles are meticulously constructed from the ground up, exemplifying the utmost care in craftsmanship. Each Harlan tractor reflects our steadfast commitment to quality and reliability, and we proudly stand by their performance.


As dedicated partners invested in your success, we offer a wealth of experience, unwavering dedication, and cutting-edge technological innovations to tackle your distinct challenges.

 

Ground Vehicle Supporting Aircraft Turbine

WHY CHOOSE US?


We have provided exceptional quality, design, & competitive pricing for over 60 years. Harlan is a manufacturing company located in the U.S.A. We have the best in class: cargo, baggage, tram, and industrial tractors, with push and pulling capabilities of up to 110,000 lbs.

In the aircraft ground handling vehicles, we are at docks, airports, warehouses, hospitals, amusement parks, and resorts in over 106 countries. We also manufacture parts for GSE aftermarket & over 100 off-road equipment manufacturers. At Harlan Global, sustainable, renewable, and environmentally friendly energy is necessary, starting in 2010 Harlan has been the market leader with Lithium-powered tractors taking our part towards minimizing our carbon footprint.

When you choose Harlan, 🌿 you become one of Harlan’s many clients enjoying a green experience with a lot of torque! ⚡️

Dependability: Engineers on Vehicle Demonstrating Excellence

Dependability

Count on us for excellence and durability - our 60 years of experience and solid reputation is proof.​

Quality Assurance: Team Meeting with Hands Together

Quality Assurance

Each of our tow tractors is crafted from the ground up, and we manufacture parts compatible with most industry makes, consistently ensuring you the best quality while reducing costs.

Innovation

We design and innovate with your needs in mind. Our GSE is equipped with Regenerative Braking technology, a heavy-duty Dual Steer Axle and Electric Drive Axle with a patented differential reduction system, an Electric Hitch, and an Electric Park Brake to enhance safety.​

 

Electric Option

Our electric motors integrate a Lithium Iron phosphate battery which is more affordable, longer-lasting, safer, and more ethical, as it does not contain cobalt. It is also equipped with a BMS to improve performance, lifespan, diagnostics, and remote communication.​

Economical Solutions Save and smile!

Our electric GSE range or retrofit kit can save you up to 40% on maintenance costs and 50% on fuel costs. All this as well as offering you a streamlined supplier experience by choosing us as your one-stop shop for GSE equipment and OEM parts, compatible with most industrial vehicle makes.​

Engineer inspecting GSE provider vehicle

We are not just a GSE provider; We are a reliable dedicated partner. 

Harlan wants to give more than you expect.​

Our History

1962
Harlan Global Manufacturing’s journey began in 1962 as a forklift repair company. Sourcing parts was the spark that Jim Kaplan, an American Army veteran and proud founder of Harlan Corporation, began purchasing the necessary equipment for crafting small components. This initial step propelled the company into the world of manufacturing.  
1967

In 1967, we planted roots in our expansive 280,000-square-foot facility – our present-day headquarters. In 1968 we birthed our inaugural towing tractor, a result of meticulous designing, prototyping, and rigorous testing.

1968

Since then, we have developed several models and successfully bid on government and commercial contracts which have contributed to the expansion of production capacity. ​




1992
Today, our machining and design centers boast cutting-edge equipment. We offer OEM parts compatible with most GSE makes as well as a portfolio of IC, hybrid, and electric tow tractors.
2010
Harlan start experimenting the novel Lithium battery technology






2020 
In the middle of the pandemic, Harlan creates the Cargo SUV with a scissor lift option.  
Innovative Cargo SUV with scissor lift








2021
Harlan designs the body for an autonomous cargo platform.
Autonomous cargo vehicle platform design

2022 
The electric hitch is released, design to save lives!
Electric hitch designed for safety








2023
As we move forward with a greener future in mind, we recently pioneered a retrofit conversion kit capable of transitioning existing fleets to electric mobility!









2024
Harlan is exporting to 106 countries.  
Global expansion to 106 countries




Mission


Our mission is to drive innovation by integrating the latest technological advancements into our products​.

We are committed to sustainability and aim to minimize our environmental impact while maximizing performance and cost efficiency. ​

We embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion in our workplace, fostering a culture that values different perspectives and backgrounds.​

We are dedicated to providing exceptional customer service that exceeds our customers' needs and expectations​.

Our products are built with pride, focusing on reliability, durability, and top-tier performance.​

We are proud to contribute to the growth of the aviation industry while upholding our values and delivering excellence in all aspects of our business.

 

Our principal's Missions, Visions, & Values revolved around the dedication and character of company founder Jim Kaplan. To this day, Jim Kaplan continues to improve the company’s character by influencing the everyday practices of the company through his dedicated vision.  

 Vision & Values 

 We continue to view our company as a world-class OEM tractor and parts manufacturer striving to be #1 in quality, a technology leader, and profitable in the market through reinvestment and growth. We now offer our Electric Conversion Kits, Leading the way in turning OEM tractors into electric ones.



Customer Service:  Responsiveness, resourcefulness, and practical results drive our service. We build strong relationships with our customers and solicit and use their feedback.  

Employee Development:   We realize the necessity for continuous learning by all our employees. We strive to offer opportunities for development and advancement for those employees who have a desire to grow and learn.  



Ethics and Integrity:   Ethical business practices and integrity characterize our relationships with customers and employees.  

Strong Work Ethic:  Our employees’ hard work and dedication contribute in many ways to the success of Harlan, including customer satisfaction and our healthy financial performance.  

 



Financial Accountability: We practice financial accountability by how we manage the cost of our product and by providing customers with cost-effective solutions. We control our costs carefully and manage risk wisely for our profitability.  


Growth: Growth is fundamental to providing opportunities for our employees and increasing value to our customers. We continuously position ourselves and take advantage of opportunities.