Transnet boosts efficiency with new cranes

Transnet SOC Ltd has officially unveiled four new ship-to-shore (STS) cranes, valued at R967 million (approx. US$56mn), at Durban Container Terminal (DCT) Pier 2

The investment aims to boost the terminal’s operational efficiency, cargo-handling capacity, and overall competitiveness, replacing an aging fleet that has reached the end of its lifecycle.

Two cranes are currently being commissioned, with endurance testing and operational handover expected to begin in the final week of October 2025. The remaining two cranes are under assembly and will undergo commissioning and handover by the end of November 2025.

This fleet upgrade forms part of Transnet Port Terminals’ (TPT) capital expenditure programme to strengthen cargo-handling infrastructure across its container terminals. Earlier in March 2025, TPT introduced 20 new straddle carriers and nine rubber-tyred gantries (RTGs) for DCT Pier 2 and Pier 1, respectively. The impact of these investments is already visible — DCT Pier 2 recorded a 28.8% year-on-year increase during the recently concluded citrus season. For the 2025/26 financial year, TPT has allocated R4 billion for equipment acquisition across its operations.

Liebherr Africa, the original equipment manufacturer, supplied the cranes with advanced technology that minimises environmental impact through reduced energy consumption. Positioned strategically at the terminal’s edge, the cranes feature enhanced cargo-handling capabilities, including increased lifting capacity, allowing for more efficient loading and unloading of containers on vessels.

Speaking at the official launch, Transnet group CEO Michelle Phillips stated, “The arrival and commissioning of these STS cranes represents more than just steel and technology. It is a reinforcement of Transnet’s commitment to improving service offering through investment in new equipment. These cranes will enable us to turn vessels faster, to operate at higher winds and match the world-class efficiency that global trade demands.”

She further added, “This investment is a symbol of our commitment to ensure that cargo moves through our port terminals with the required speed and reliability. Faster processing of cargo at our terminals directly supports South Africa’s export-led growth strategy, boosting global trade competitiveness and economic prosperity. These new STS cranes replace an old fleet that had reached its end-of-lifecycle. The investment is set up to increase the terminal’s volume throughput and significantly boost productivity and efficiency levels.”

Durban Container Terminal Pier 2 remains the largest and busiest container facility in Southern Africa, handling 60% of South Africa’s container volumes. It is also the only terminal on the continent equipped with tandem lift cranes capable of carrying up to 80 tons at once.