Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) has just beefed up operations at the Port Elizabeth Container Terminal with a brand-new ship-to-shore (STS) crane worth a whopping R240 million.
This latest investment is set to boost container throughput at the terminal, which already handles over 150 000 TEUs (that’s twenty-foot equivalent units) every year – mostly feeding the agriculture and automotive sectors in the Eastern Cape.
The new crane is expected to speed up loading and offloading of big vessels, helping reduce delays that can cost importers and exporters serious bucks.
Manufactured by Liebherr Africa, the crane comes fully loaded with top-notch tech and an energy-saving design to keep things running cleaner and leaner.
It replaces an old workhorse that’s been in action for over 35 years – proof that TPT is finally putting its money where its mouth is with regard to equipment upgrades.
The STS crane is part of TPT’s wider R3-billion investment strategy to sort out port performance issues countrywide.
Just last month, 20 new straddle carriers and nine rubber-tyred gantries landed in Durban to improve operations at Pier 2 and Pier 1.
Speaking at the crane’s official launch, Transnet board chair Dr Andile Sangqu said the crane represents more than just a flashy new machine — it’s a statement of intent.
“In today’s logistics game, reliability, speed and precision are everything. We know delays have major knock-on effects, and we’re committed to being the partner that helps our clients excel,” he said.
Now let’s hope the rest of the ports get the same treatment — SA’s logistics sector sorely needs it.
Do you have more on this story? Click to WhatsApp us. Anonymity guaranteed.
