Original equipment manufacturer Liebherr and Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) have entered into a 10-year partnership agreement for the supply and servicing of a range of cranes used to load and offload containers at South African port terminals.
TPT described the partnership as a “strategic collaboration” for the supply of ship-to-shore (STS), rubber-tyred gantry (RTG) and rail-mounted gantry (RMG) cranes as well as mobile harbour cranes (LHMs).
The deal includes a 20-year asset management programme to ensure the long-term reliability and performance of the machinery.
“Under the new agreement, Transnet has already placed substantial orders for Liebherr equipment. This includes four large STS cranes for the Port of Durban, which are currently being assembled in South Africa. Additionally, 48 RTGs have been ordered in multiple batches for the Durban and Cape Town terminals,” TPT said in a statement.
“Both ports have begun receiving RTGs with several units having already entered service. More deliveries are scheduled over the coming months. Once commissioned, these units will significantly enhance operational capacity and efficiency,” the port operator said.
In addition to the STS and RTG cranes, the partnership agreement incorporates RMGs for intermodal operations and LHMs to enhance flexible container handling across various terminals.
“Beyond the supply of cranes, the 20-year asset management programme will ensure that Transnet benefits from comprehensive life cycle support including maintenance, repairs and parts management. Liebherr will provide local parts and service engineers guaranteeing a prompt and efficient response to operational needs when required,” TPT said.
As part of the deal, Liebherr is also investing in a new competence and distribution centre in Durban. It will include the Liebherr Technology Campus with a professional training and innovation hub offering customised solutions. Additionally, Liebherr is upgrading its customer service facility in Cape Town to ensure 24/7 support while reinforcing its long-term presence in the region.
“Through this agreement, Transnet will benefit from Liebherr’s local expertise, strategically managed parts supply and a dedicated customer service and support network. This ensures unrivalled reliability, optimised productivity and seamless operations,” the ports operator said.
The introduction of new Liebherr STS and RTG cranes, alongside a strengthened life cycle management strategy, will enhance efficiency, improve cargo flow and support continued growth at South Africa’s ports.
TPT Chief Executive Jabu Mdaki said the partnership with Liebherr ensures access to cutting-edge crane technology and expert support.
“This partnership agreement is a testament to our commitment to delivering world-class service to our customers and keeping South Africa’s ports at the forefront of global trade,” Mdaki said.
“By partnering with Liebherr, we gain access to state-of-the-art crane technology, industry leading innovation and a wealth of technical expertise. This strategic collaboration empowers us to significantly boost operational efficiency, streamline port logistics and reduce long-term operational costs.”
Mdaki said this reflects the ports operator’s “unwavering commitment to delivering world-class service and maintaining the highest standards of excellence across all facets of our operations”.
He added: “This partnership reflects a shared vision for the future of port infrastructure in South Africa. Together with Liebherr, we are working to strengthen our relationship and foster a culture of continuous improvement, innovation and mutual growth. Our joint efforts are focused on ensuring that South Africa’s ports remain competitive, resilient and at the forefront of global trade.”
Liebherr-Africa GM Lukas Sturn said the company’s collaboration with TPT marks a significant step forward in strengthening port operations in the country.
“With dedicated service hubs and an optimised parts supply, we are well-positioned to support Transnet’s growth and ensure smooth, efficient and cost-effective operations.”
Liebherr Container Cranes MD Declan O’Sullivan said the company is committed to delivering industry-leading crane solutions and long-term support for its partners.
“Through our investments in service infrastructure, local expertise and life cycle management, we are ensuring that Transnet benefits from world-class reliability, efficiency and performance.”
