The Port Elizabeth Container Terminal has strengthened its operations with the acquisition of a new state-of-the-art ship-to-shore crane valued at R240 million, Transnet announced.
The crane, supplied by original equipment manufacturer Liebherr Africa, replaces a unit that had served for over 35 years and reached the end of its operational life.
This move is part of Transnet’s broader equipment replacement strategy to ensure reliability and improved service delivery.
According to Transnet, the new crane will significantly enhance the terminal’s ability to handle agricultural and automotive containers and efficiently manage larger vessels.
Equipped with cutting-edge cargo-handling technology, the crane features increased lifting capacity and improved energy efficiency, reducing its environmental impact.
Strategically positioned at the terminal’s quayside, the crane forms part of Transnet Port Terminals’ R3 billion investment programme aimed at improving equipment availability and operational performance across its container terminals.
Recent additions under this programme include 20 straddle carriers and nine rubber-tyred gantries at Durban Container Terminal’s Pier 2 and Pier 1, respectively.
Unveiling the crane at the Port Elizabeth Container Terminal, Transnet Chairperson Andile Sangqu highlighted the importance of such investments:
“The arrival of the ship-to-shore crane represents more than a logistical upgrade; it affirms Transnet’s commitment to efficiency, reliability, and our role in South Africa’s logistics ecosystem. In a high-demand environment, precision and agility are non-negotiable.”
Sangqu emphasized that timely investments in infrastructure are essential for maintaining long-term, mutually beneficial partnerships:
“Every minute counts in logistics.
Delays can carry serious consequences. Transnet aims to be the driving force behind our partners’ success in a sector that tolerates no inefficiency.”
The new crane is expected to enhance the port’s capacity and responsiveness, solidifying its role as a critical gateway for regional and international trade.
