PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT | MHC AND STC CRANES
Netherlands, Rebel is a global consultancy specialising in infrastructure development and financing. Its financial and strategic work for ports and terminals includes supporting M&A activity and conducting societal cost/ benefit analysis.
Rebel Ports & Logistics analysed news articles covering almost 200 STS crane deliveries to deep-sea container ports in 2025. The study was compiled by Johan-Paul Verschuure, director and partner at Rebel, and Fabian van der Poel, a consultant with the company. The research revealed steady capacity
For Liebherr, the practical route towards MHC automation is to assist defined tasks while keeping the operator in control.
stabilise load movement, while Sycratronic synchronises two cranes during a defined tandem lift. For suitable bulk operations, teach-in and point-to-point concepts can support repeatable cycle movements. “These functions reduce repetitive workload and help operators maintain consistent handling,” it says. “The operator still steers the crane and makes decisions at the vessel and quay interfaces.” The distinction matters when discussing
remote operation. Liebherr’s remote operator stations for container cranes provide a reference for the cameras, connectivity, positioning, cyber security, fallback procedures and training that such systems require. Full remote cargo-handling operation is not currently an LHM capability, and neither is one-operator-to- many-cranes operation. “Both remain potential future applications requiring terminal-specific development and safety validation,” it adds.
Terminal giants STS cranes dominate the skylines of ports and terminals – and dominate the productivity statistics. In this category, the three big trends remain automation or remote operation, higher capacity and productivity and sustainability. Konecranes designs its STS cranes for high handling rates and long service life. They follow the company’s ‘Core of Lifting’ philosophy, meaning Konecranes manufactures the core components in-house. Gears, motors and controls are designed not just as individual products but to work as part of a wider system. As part of Konecranes Path to Port Automation,
STSs are prepared for remote operation and even automation. “From a structural perspective, the STS are designed for remote and automation features,” it adds. Liebherr offers automation solutions across its STS portfolio, from remote operation and semi-automated functions to fully automated configurations. One example is Liebherr’s
partnership with HHLA, under which automated, dual-trolley STS cranes will be supplied for Container Terminal Altenwerder in Hamburg. Six are already on site, with more to follow. “We continually work to develop our cranes so
that they support higher container-handling rates and efficient terminal operations,” it says. Continued product development, combined with solutions tailored to specific operational requirements, helps customers optimise container flows and terminal performance. Its dual-trolley concept is one example of this. For sustainability, Liebherr MCCtec was
recently recognised with an EcoVadis Platinum Medal in 2026. This is based on EcoVadis’ assessment across environmental, labour and human rights, ethics and sustainable procurement criteria. Platinum places it amongst the top 1% of audited companies in the previous 12 months.
2025, analysed Recent research by the consultancy firm Rebel shines a spotlight on STS cranes. Based in the
expansion, with significant growth in southern and south-east Asia. “It shows where future container handling capacity will grow and where the centre of growth is right now,” says Van der Poel. Overall, the results show that most terminals bought new cranes to increase capacity, with the new cranes capable of a combined 35m TEU. Rebel also analysed whether the new cranes
were additions or replacements for existing equipment. However, this data could be skewed as ports are less likely to announce replacement cranes or upgrades than they are new additions. “There was quite a small number of
replacements, less than we expected,” he adds. “Of course, announcing a new additional crane makes a port look more prosperous, so perhaps this is why we see more of a focus on announcing growth. Perhaps extending the life of the existing cranes is a priority right now and perhaps there is upgrading going on behind the scenes.” Both Konecranes and Liebherr are active in this segment. Konecranes has a large global service footprint and the necessary expertise to offer retrofits and modernisations for any kind of port equipment. “We are a highly capable partner for customers looking to address their needs regarding upgrading, refurbishing or replacing existing STS cranes,” it adds.
Konecranes designs its STS cranes for high handling rates and long service life according to the company’s ‘Core of Lifting’ philosophy.
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