REGIONAL REPORT
technologies become more integrated into terminal operations, ports need training solutions that can adapt as equipment, workflows and skill requirements evolve.” Simulation-based training helps ports manage that transition. “One of its main advantages is that operators can begin training before new equipment is deployed in the yard,” he adds. “They can familiarise themselves with machine controls, operational procedures and jobsite scenarios in advance, helping reduce the productivity dips that often follow the rollout of new technology.”
Operationally, ports and terminals face common challenges the world over. For Europe, its unique quality is in how challenges converge. “Ports and terminals face a convergence of challenges that push the limits of conventional material handling equipment,” says Hyster. “In addition to throughput, sustainability and labour shortages, containerised operations contend with stiffening noise restrictions and tighter spatial footprints – especially at inland and urban- adjacent terminals while breakbulk volumes introduce irregular loads that require specialised, careful handling.” Throughput is the main metric of success for container terminals. “Tailoring equipment for the application can elevate productivity, safety consciousness and equipment longevity compared to off-the-shelf machines,” says Hyster. However, choosing the right level of specification involves risks. Over-specifying can inflate capital costs and complicate serviceability, while under-specifying can constrain throughput and increase long-term costs. “The primary issue for ports and terminals isn’t whether to customise, but when to customise, how much and in what ways, in order to achieve the lowest total cost of ownership,” adds Hyster.
BVS views the European market as being characterised by a high level of sophistication.
BVS sees Europe as a highly sophisticated but also highly demanding market. The three main challenges its customers are facing are decarbonisation, space constraints and multimodal connectivity. Addressing the latter, BVS says, “European ports are not just quay-side assets; they are nodes in wider logistics chains linked with rail, road and inland waterways through the TEN-T framework. That makes reliability, integration and predictable performance extremely important.” To help address these challenges, BVS Cranes offers custom-engineered solutions for non- standard sites. A key focus is also ensuring the equipment meets each site’s unique operational requirements. “We provide close technical dialogue during the project phase so that equipment can be adapted to the terminal’s real operating environment rather than forcing the terminal to adapt to the machine.”
Skills shortages still a problem Labour shortages also remain prevalent. OEMs are addressing this through advances in operator comfort and ergonomics, which can help to support employee satisfaction and retention. For Hyster, this includes scratch-resistant glass and an armoured glass top window, curved front and rear windows and steel doors with tempered glass, all to improve visibility. Easy entry and exit to and from a spacious cabin are also vital, while a comfortable, adjustable seat is now a must-have. And in the digital age, access to the right information is increasingly important. Full colour display screens providing key metrics are increasingly popular, with Hyster offering data customisation based on operator skill level. “Electric equipment can also be part of the answer to maximising the efficiency and productivity of operators and their time,” it adds. “Electric trucks can support a work environment that can offer greater operator comfort and performance. The reduced maintenance workload associated with electric trucks can also be an important aid for businesses struggling to source technicians from a tight skilled labour pool.” Simulation-based training also helps to upskill
workers. CM Labs cites San Vicente Terminal Internationale (SVTI), operated by Hanseatic Global Terminals, as an example. At SVTI, simulation training became part of a structured approach to operator development focused on helping experienced operators progress towards higher-skill crane roles. Using simulation-based training, the
Throughput is the main metric of success for container terminals. xviii | April 2026 |
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terminal was able to provide operators with thousands of hours of training in a controlled environment, where they could practice advanced crane manoeuvres and operational scenarios. Performance data helped trainers identify skill gaps and track improvement as
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