Liebherr Container Cranes has completed a major upgrade at the Port of Grangemouth, Scotland’s largest container terminal, increasing the lift height of two ship to shore gantry cranes by 2.2 metres. The project enhances operational capacity while extending the lifespan of existing equipment.
The port operates three Liebherr STS cranes, one delivered in 2018 and two installed in 2006. The older units have now undergone a Liebherr Transform crane raise, allowing them to meet modern container handling demands without replacement. Handling more than 250,000 TEU each year, the terminal has faced rising container volumes and new operational requirements, including higher container stacks and larger next generation straddle carriers.
To address these challenges, Liebherr delivered the crane raise while keeping both units on the rails, minimising disruption to daily operations. Each crane was lifted in around six weeks, ensuring continued productivity at the busy terminal.
Craig Torrance, asset manager at the Port of Grangemouth, said the upgrade will help futureproof container operations and support customers in a fast changing market. He noted that the increased clearance enables the port to handle taller stacks and larger equipment while remaining efficient and competitive.
According to Liebherr, the upgrade offers a cost effective and sustainable alternative to replacing cranes. By extending service life and improving performance, the Transform programme helps terminals modernise assets while reducing environmental impact and capital expenditure.
The project highlights growing interest in crane upgrades as ports seek to balance investment with sustainability goals. For Grangemouth, the enhanced cranes are expected to support long term container growth while maintaining reliable operations.
