GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 26, 2026

container crane

When a container vessel berths, the container crane – commonly called a ship-to-shore (STS) crane – takes over loading and discharge operations.

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Last updated: 26 June 2026Published: 27 January 2026

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Container_crane

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Definition & Explanation

When a container vessel berths, the container crane – commonly called a ship-to-shore (STS) crane – takes over loading and discharge operations. A spreader beam locks automatically onto the corner castings of ISO containers (20 ft or 40 ft), lifting them from the vessel's deck or hold and placing them precisely onto terminal tractors or automated guided vehicles. Modern STS cranes are engineered for outreaches exceeding 60 metres, enabling them to serve the widest ultra-large container vessels. Unlike a general-purpose harbour crane, the STS crane is built for rapid, repetitive standardised lifts: crane availability and cycle speed directly drive terminal productivity and determine the vessel turnaround time billed to shipping lines. For freight forwarders and shippers, higher crane performance translates into shorter port stays and lower port costs per call.

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container crane

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