New cranes boost rail capacity by 50 per cent at DP World London Gateway

The new cranes will go into operation in mid-August and will help meet the fast-growing demand for increased rail connections and more sustainable supply chain solutions from customers.

The new cranes will also increase box handling capacity at the terminal by 75 per cent, enabling more freight to be carried to and from the terminal by rail, reducing congestion on local roads, removing carbon emissions from the supply chain, and helping customers stay competitive. The new capacity is part of DP World’s wider commitment to increase the movement of cargo by rail, which has been supported by the London Gateway-Southampton direct rail service and the Southampton Modal Shift Programme trial, which has increased the share of rail freight at the hub to 30 per cent since September 2023.

Ahsan Agha, Vice President Port Operations at DP World London Gateway, said: “Customers choose us for our assets, our capabilities and the quality of our customer service. The expansion of capacity at the London Gateway rail terminal is testament to that service, with the increase in rail journeys between London Gateway and our UK rail network connections ensuring that our customers stay competitive while reducing their carbon emissions in order to meet their key sustainability targets. 

“After the disruption in supply routes in recent years, shipping lines and cargo owners are constantly looking for new capacity and sustainable solutions and we are delighted that the increased rail capacity at London Gateway will help us deliver on both fronts.”

The £12m RMG cranes weigh approximately 480 tonnes with a lifting capacity of 41 tonnes. Delivered by manufacturing giant ZPMC, the RMG cranes are equipped with the latest control system and software which will significantly enhance operational efficiency and safety at London Gateway.

The arrival of the RMG cranes precedes the launch of London Gateway’s £350m new fourth berth later this year, which will be the first all-electric berth at a port anywhere in the world. When opened, the RMG cranes will operate and handle cargo from the new fourth berth. 

In addition to its hubs at Southampton and London Gateway, DP World’s offer includes logistics, forwarding and European transport capabilities, all of which are being integrated into the company’s global network. Operating in 78 countries, DP World handles 10 per cent of world trade.