GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 26, 2026

Shore Crane

Shore cranes exist to load and unload vessels quickly, without relying on the ship's own lifting gear.

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Last updated: 26 June 2026Published: 27 January 2026

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crane_(machine)

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Definition & Explanation

Shore cranes exist to load and unload vessels quickly, without relying on the ship's own lifting gear. They are fixed or mobile heavy-lift machines that form part of the terminal infrastructure and are operated by port authorities or stevedoring companies. Container terminals typically use ship-to-shore (STS) gantry cranes, while bulk and general cargo berths deploy other crane types, some rated well above 100 tonnes. Shipping lines and shippers factor crane capacity into port selection, since large modern vessels depend on fast turnaround to remain economically viable. Unlike ship-mounted cranes, shore cranes are tied to the terminal – they are only available where the necessary port infrastructure exists.

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Shore Crane

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Related Terms

Ship crane

container crane

terminal crane operation

Efficient Port Crane Scheduling

FOB port crane

Assistance Systems for Port Cranes

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