Rubber-Tired Gantry (RTG) Cranes: Insider Tips and Best Deals

Rubber-Tired Gantry (RTG) Cranes are essential in container terminals for stacking and moving containers efficiently. Their mobility allows them to navigate the yard without the constraints of fixed rails, offering flexibility in operations.

ShipUniverse: Rubber-Tired Gantry (RTG) Crane
Quick Overview
Best For	Efficient stacking and handling of containers in port yards.
Load Capacity	Typically up to 65 tons under the spreader.
Span	Spans can range from 20.8 meters for 5 container rows plus a truck lane to 37.7 meters for 10 container rows plus a truck lane.
Lifting Height	Capable of stacking containers from 1-over-3 to 1-over-6 high, with lifting heights ranging from 12.3 meters to 21 meters.
Mobility	Equipped with rubber tires, allowing free movement within the container yard without the need for tracks.
Common Applications	Primarily used in container terminals for stacking and moving containers efficiently.
Pros	✅ High stacking capability optimizes yard space. ✅ Mobility allows flexible operations without fixed infrastructure. ✅ Capable of handling heavy loads up to 65 tons.
Cons	❌ High initial investment and operational costs. ❌ Requires skilled operators for safe and efficient handling. ❌ Regular maintenance needed to ensure optimal performance.
Maintenance	Regular inspections and maintenance of tires, lifting mechanisms, and electronic systems are essential to ensure safety and longevity.
Price Range	Prices vary based on specifications and manufacturer; for instance, a 30-ton RTG crane can range from $150,000 to $300,000.

Find the Top Deals

Our team helps vessel owners like you find the right crane for your needs — without the pressure. We work with top suppliers to help you compare specs, get the best pricing, and avoid costly mistakes. Whether you’re outfitting a new build or replacing an old unit, we’re here to make the process easier and faster. Get started with our quick quote request form below.

📈 Insider Tips

RTG cranes might seem straightforward, but optimizing their use requires more than just knowing how to drive them. Yard layout, tire wear, lift sequencing, and electrical upkeep all play a role in maximizing uptime. These field-tested tips come from busy ports where RTGs run 20+ hours a day — and where every second counts.

ShipUniverse: Rubber-Tired Gantry (RTG) Crane – Insider Tips
Tip	Details
Monitor Tire Pressure Weekly	Uneven or underinflated tires cause uneven lifts, tracking issues, and increase fuel or power consumption. Rotate and inspect tires regularly.
Schedule Software Updates	Most modern RTGs use computerized controls and positioning software. Keeping firmware and yard management software up to date reduces downtime from bugs and sync issues.
Track Fuel vs. Electric Costs	If your RTG fleet includes both diesel and electric models, compare cost-per-container metrics monthly. Many terminals find hybrids yield the best ROI depending on cargo density.
Optimize Lift Sequences	RTG efficiency drops when moving empty containers or executing non-optimized retrieval paths. Work with the yard planning team to organize stacks for minimal shuffles.
Cable Reel Management	For electric RTGs using cable reels, ensure reels retract evenly and are free from abrasion. A damaged cable can halt operations and be costly to replace.
Use Anti-Collision Systems	Modern RTGs are equipped with sensors to prevent container collisions or stack overshoots. Make sure sensors are calibrated and functioning correctly before high-traffic shifts.
Perform Daily Pre-Checks	Operators should do a 5-minute walkaround before their shift to check for visible wear, fluid leaks, or warning lights on the control panel. Saves hours later.