NorthPort boosts capacity with mobile harbor cranes
NorthPort, the Philippines’ leading domestic gateway operated by International Container Terminal Services, is significantly enhancing its operational capabilities through the acquisition of two new Konecranes Gottwald ESP 5 mobile harbor cranes. This strategic investment is a cornerstone of the terminal’s comprehensive modernization initiative aimed at improving cargo handling efficiency, accommodating escalating domestic trade volumes, and guaranteeing dependable service for its valued customers, shipping lines, and logistics partners.
The ESP 5 mobile harbor cranes boast an impressive 41-ton lifting capacity and a 46-meter outreach, capable of covering 13 bays. These advanced cranes will be strategically deployed at Pier 10, bolstering the future-readiness of Terminal 2. They will operate in conjunction with the existing eight quay cranes serving Terminal 1. This expanded lifting capacity will empower NorthPort to service a greater number of vessels concurrently, thereby elevating quayside productivity and optimizing overall berth utilization.
Justin Tolentino, NorthPort General Manager, emphasized the crucial role of these new cranes in maintaining the high service standards expected by shipping lines, cargo owners, and logistics partners, especially as trade volumes continue to surge.
The new cranes arrived on November 19 and are currently undergoing final testing and commissioning, with full commercial operations slated to commence in December.
Further underscoring its commitment to operational excellence and sustainability, NorthPort has also placed orders for four new hybrid Mitsui rubber-tired gantry cranes, which are scheduled for delivery in the fourth quarter of 2026. These hybrid RTGs are designed to reduce diesel consumption and maintenance needs. Notably, existing units have already demonstrated a remarkable 49% reduction in carbon emissions, lowering annual emissions from 2,186 tons to an estimated 1,109 tons.