Top Ship-to-Shore Crane Manufacturers – A Comprehensive Guide
When it comes to ship-to-shore (STS) crane manufacturers, Dongqi Crane stands out as a leading global supplier, offering high-performance cranes for ports, terminals, and shipping industries. STS cranes are essential for efficient container handling, ensuring smooth operations between vessels and shore facilities.
In this article, we will explore ship-to-shore crane manufacturers, compare them with similar cranes like gantry cranes and rubber-tired gantry cranes (RTGs), and discuss ship-to-shore crane prices from multiple perspectives.
1. Leading Ship-to-Shore (STS) Crane Manufacturers
Dongqi Crane – A Trusted STS Crane Supplier
Dongqi Crane is a reputable manufacturer specializing in heavy-duty lifting equipment, including ship-to-shore cranes, gantry cranes, and RTGs. Their STS cranes are designed for:
- High lifting capacity (up to 100+ tons)
- Long outreach (up to 70 meters)
- Automation-ready for smart port operations
- Energy-efficient with regenerative power systems
Other notable STS crane manufacturers include:
- ZPMC (Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries)
- Konecranes
- Liebherr
- Kalmarglobal
However, Dongqi Crane provides a competitive edge with customized solutions, cost-effective pricing, and reliable after-sales service.
2. Ship-to-Shore Crane vs. Similar Crane Types
When selecting cranes for port operations, it’s crucial to understand the differences between Ship-to-Shore (STS) Cranes and other common container handling equipment. Below is an in-depth comparison covering design, functionality, efficiency, and cost considerations.
1. Ship-to-Shore (STS) Cranes
Primary Use:
- Loading and unloading containers directly from ocean-going vessels to the terminal yard.
- Essential for large-scale container terminals with high-volume operations.
Key Features:
- High Lifting Capacity: Typically 40–100+ tons, capable of handling multiple containers (twin-lift or tandem-lift options).
- Long Outreach: Boom lengths of 50–70 meters, allowing service for ultra-large container ships (ULCS).
- Rail-Mounted Movement: Moves on fixed rails along the quay for precise positioning.
- Automation Compatibility: Can integrate with automated stacking cranes (ASCs) and terminal operating systems (TOS).
Advantages:
✔ Highest productivity (up to 30–50 moves per hour)
✔ Best for mega-ships (24,000+ TEU vessels)
✔ Reduces vessel turnaround time
✔ Energy-efficient options (regenerative power, electrification)
Limitations:
❌ High initial cost ($5M–$15M+)
❌ Requires strong quay foundation
❌ Limited mobility (fixed to rail tracks)
2. Rubber-Tired Gantry (RTG) Cranes
Primary Use:
- Yard operations – stacking and transporting containers within the terminal.
- Often paired with STS cranes for seamless yard-to-ship operations.
Key Features:
- Rubber Tires: Allows flexible movement in container yards.
- Diesel or Electric Power: Hybrid and fully electric RTGs are gaining popularity.
- Lifting Capacity: Usually 30–50 tons (single-container handling).
- Span Width: Typically 6–8 container rows wide.
Advantages:
✔ Mobility – Can be repositioned as needed
✔ Lower cost ($1M–$3M) compared to STS cranes
✔ Suitable for medium-sized terminals
Limitations:
❌ Slower operation than rail-mounted cranes
❌ Higher maintenance (tire wear, engine servicing)
❌ Limited height (usually up to 5–6 container stacks)
3. Rail-Mounted Gantry (RMG) Cranes
Primary Use:
- High-density container stacking in intermodal yards and automated terminals.
- Commonly used in automated container terminals (ACTs).
Key Features:
- Fixed Rails: Moves on predefined tracks for high-precision stacking.
- Automation-Ready: Often used in fully automated terminals.
- Lifting Capacity: Similar to RTGs (30–50 tons).
- Higher Stacking: Can stack 7–8 containers high.
Advantages:
✔ Higher efficiency than RTGs (due to fixed path movement)
✔ Better for automated terminals
✔ Lower long-term maintenance (no tires, less wear)
Limitations:
❌ Less flexible than RTGs (cannot be easily relocated)
❌ Higher infrastructure cost (requires rail installation)
4. Comparison Summary Table
| Feature | STS Crane | RTG Crane | RMG Crane |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Ship-to-shore unloading | Yard container handling | Automated yard stacking |
| Mobility | Rail-mounted (fixed) | Rubber-tired (flexible) | Rail-mounted (fixed) |
| Lifting Capacity | 40–100+ tons | 30–50 tons | 30–50 tons |
| Automation | Semi/Fully Automated | Mostly Manual/Semi-Auto | Fully Automated |
| Productivity | 30–50 moves/hour | 15–25 moves/hour | 20–30 moves/hour |
| Cost | $5M–$15M+ | $1M–$3M | $2M–$5M |
| Best For | Large ports, mega-ships | Medium terminals, flexibility | Automated terminals, high-density yards |
5. Which Crane is Right for Your Operation?
- Need to unload mega-ships quickly? → STS Cranes (Dongqi offers high-performance models)
- Looking for yard flexibility? → RTG Cranes (Cost-effective for medium terminals)
- Building an automated terminal? → RMG Cranes (Best for high-density stacking)
Dongqi Crane provides customized solutions for all three types, ensuring optimal performance and cost efficiency.
3. Ship-to-Shore Crane Price
Understanding the pricing structure of ship-to-shore (STS) cranes requires examining multiple factors that influence the total investment. Below is a comprehensive analysis of STS crane pricing, including base costs, customization options, and long-term operational expenses.
1. Base Price Ranges by Crane Specifications
A. By Lifting Capacity
| Capacity Range | Typical Use Case | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 20-40 tons | Small feeder vessels, regional ports | $1.0M – $3.5M |
| 40-60 tons | Mid-sized container ships | $3.5M – $6.0M |
| 60-100+ tons | Ultra-large container vessels (ULCVs) | $6.0M – $15M+ |
Note: Prices for tandem-lift configurations (handling two 20′ containers simultaneously) typically add 15-25% to base costs.
B. By Outreach (Boom Length)
| Outreach | Vessel Size Accommodated | Price Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 30-40m | Panamax class ships | Base price |
| 40-50m | Post-Panamax vessels | +10-15% |
| 50-70m | New Panamax/ULCV | +20-30% |
2. Major Cost Components
A. Structural Elements (40-50% of total cost)
- Portal Frame & Legs: $500K – $2M
- Boom System: $800K – $3M
- Trolley & Hoist Mechanism: $400K – $1.5M
B. Electrical Systems (20-25%)
- Main Drives & Motors: $300K – $1.2M
- Power Supply (Cable Reels/Conductor Bars): $150K – $500K
- Control Systems: $200K – $800K
C. Automation Features (Price Premiums)
| Feature | Cost Addition | Productivity Gain |
|---|---|---|
| Basic semi-automation | +5-8% | 10-15% |
| Advanced ATS (Auto Trolley System) | +12-18% | 25-35% |
| Fully automated operation | +25-40% | 40-60% |
3. Operational Cost Considerations
A. Installation & Commissioning
| Component | Cost Estimate |
|---|---|
| Foundation preparation | $200K – $1M |
| Crane assembly | $150K – $500K |
| Testing & commissioning | $100K – $300K |
B. Maintenance Costs (Annual)
| Maintenance Level | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Basic (manual inspections) | $50K – $150K |
| Advanced (predictive maintenance) | $150K – $300K |
| Full service contract | $200K – $500K |
C. Energy Consumption
| Power Type | Cost/Hour | Annual Cost (6,000 hrs) |
|---|---|---|
| Diesel-electric | $25-40 | $150K – $240K |
| Full electric | $15-25 | $90K – $150K |
| Regenerative electric | $10-20 | $60K – $120K |
4. Regional Price Variations
| Market | Price Factor | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| China (Dongqi) | 1.0x | Competitive base pricing |
| European OEMs | 1.3-1.6x | Higher labor/component costs |
| North America | 1.2-1.4x | Transportation premiums |
| Emerging markets | 0.9-1.1x | Local assembly discounts |
5. Total Cost of Ownership (5-Year Estimate)
| Cost Category | 40-ton STS | 60-ton STS | 80-ton STS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial purchase | $3.2M | $5.8M | $9.5M |
| Installation | $450K | $650K | $900K |
| Maintenance | $750K | $1.1M | $1.5M |
| Energy | $600K | $900K | $1.2M |
| Total 5-year cost | $5.0M | $8.45M | $13.1M |
6. Cost-Saving Strategies
- Modular Design Selection (Save 8-12% on installation)
- Batch Purchasing (5-7% discount for multiple units)
- Localized Components (Reduce import duties by 10-15%)
- Hybrid Power Systems (Cut energy costs by 30-40%)
Dongqi Crane offers value-engineered STS solutions with:
- 15-20% cost advantage vs. European brands
- Flexible financing options (leasing/PPP models)
- Lifecycle cost guarantees
For a detailed cost analysis tailored to your port’s specific requirements, contact our engineering team for a customized quotation.
4. Why Choose Dongqi Crane?
✅ Competitive pricing without compromising quality
✅ Custom-designed STS cranes for different port layouts
✅ Global service network for installation & maintenance
✅ Advanced automation options for future-ready ports
Conclusion
When selecting ship-to-shore crane manufacturers, Dongqi Crane provides a perfect balance of performance, reliability, and affordability. Understanding STS crane prices helps in budgeting, while comparing different crane types ensures the right choice for your port operations.
Contact Dongqi Crane today for a customized STS crane solution! 🚢⚡
