A major global terminal in the Port of Cartagena, Colombia has ordered 25 Konecranes Rubber-Tired Gantry Cranes (RTGs), along with Konecranes retrofits for 10 existing RTGs to enable supervised operations. The deal was signed in Q3 2025 and the new cranes will be delivered in five batches: the first in Q4 2026 and the last in Q1 2028.
The new order forms part of a broader modernization program, with the terminal turning to Konecranes to deliver a unified setup capable of handling peak container flows with minimal unplanned interventions. In addition, 37 third-party RTGs will be retrofitted with Konecranes technology to enable supervised operations. The terminal already has two Konecranes Straddle Carriers and four Konecranes Reach Stackers in operation.
Konecranes’ technology includes systems for supervised truck lane operations and remotely supervised stacking, among other solutions. Advanced gantry technology enables supervised gantry moves without direct operator input, while truck guidance and truck lift prevention systems provide enhanced safety and operational control.
The RTG system will be integrated with the terminal’s existing IT and Operational Technology (OT) infrastructure, including networks, yard controls and remote operating stations. The cranes will operate at high-density container stacks near the berth, where the need for high performance capability and 24/7 availability is critical. A Service Level Agreement between Konecranes and the customer ensures long-term support.
“Our RTG technology comes with an exceptionally high productivity promise. This level of performance – combined with the globally proven reliability of our cranes – enables the round-the-clock operations that customers depend upon,” says Heikki Kreku, Director RTG, Konecranes.
The Colombian terminal is a top global container terminal recognized for its container port performance, efficiency, advanced technology, connectivity and ability to handle large vessels, according to the World Bank’s and S&P Global Market Intelligence’s Container Port Performance Index 2023.
This order is part of Konecranes’ path to port automation, where container terminals improve productivity and safety in manageable steps. From smart features up to full automation, the path can include supervised operation and remote operation to smoothly introduce the power of automation. The path to port automation applies to all container handling equipment brands. Full automation can be the final goal but it doesn’t have to be. Flexibility is the key.
A strong focus on customers and commitment to business growth and continuous improvement make Konecranes a material handling industry leader. This is underpinned by investments in digitalization and technology, plus our work to make material flows more efficient with solutions that decarbonize the economy and advance circularity and safety.
Source: Konecranes