What is a container gantry crane?

A container gantry crane, also known as a ship-to-shore crane, is a type of lifting equipment typically used in ports and terminals for handling containers. It is specifically designed to lift, move, and stack containers from ships onto trucks or railcars, and vice versa.
These cranes are usually mounted on rails or tracks and have a large gantry structure with a bridge that spans the width of the dock. The bridge is supported by tall legs and is equipped with a trolley system that can move horizontally along the length of the bridge. The trolley is attached to a spreader beam, which is used to pick up and lower containers onto the trucks or railcars.
Container gantry cranes are typically operated by trained crane operators from an elevated cabin, providing a bird's-eye view for safe and efficient operation. These cranes are essential for container terminals as they play a significant role in the movement of goods between different modes of transportation, ensuring the smooth flow of international trade.