Ship-to-Shore (STS) Cranes: Insider Tips and Best Deals
Ship-to-Shore (STS) cranes are the backbone of container port operations. Designed to move containers quickly and safely from massive container vessels to the terminal, these cranes have evolved into towering, high-tech machines capable of handling today's largest ships. With outreach that spans over a ship’s beam and speeds that minimize berth time, STS cranes are vital for global trade efficiency.
| ShipUniverse: Ship-to-Shore (STS) Cranes | |
|---|---|
| Quick Overview | |
| Best For | Loading and unloading containers between vessels and port terminals. |
| Load Capacity | Typically 40 to 120 metric tons, supporting single, twin, or tandem lifts. |
| Boom Type | Monobox or lattice boom, built for strength and minimal wind resistance. |
| Outreach & Height | Outreach up to 70 meters (229 ft); lift heights vary from 35 to 55 meters above the rail. |
| Operational Speed | Lifting speeds up to 100 m/min, lowering up to 180 m/min, trolley speeds up to 240 m/min. |
| Common Terminals | Used globally at container terminals for servicing Panamax, Post-Panamax, and Ultra Large Container Vessels (ULCVs). |
| Pros |
✅ High efficiency for containerized cargo ✅ Can service the largest container ships ✅ Available with smart automation systems ✅ Designed for long lifespan with heavy-duty use |
| Cons |
❌ High capital and maintenance costs ❌ Requires large infrastructure footprint ❌ Weather-dependent (wind shutdown thresholds) ❌ Skilled operation and oversight needed |
| Maintenance | Regular structural inspections, wire rope monitoring, lubrication, wind monitoring systems, and hydraulic/electrical system maintenance required. |
| Price Range | Varies widely by size and features, typically $8M–$12M+ per unit (excluding installation and civil works). |
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
STS cranes are complex, high-value assets — and how you operate and maintain them directly impacts uptime and ROI. Below are some battle-tested tips from port operators and crane engineers that can help extend the life of your equipment and boost safety and productivity.
| ShipUniverse: Marine Jib Crane – Insider Tips | |
|---|---|
| Tip | Details |
| Stick to Load Limits | Never push close to the rated max. Operators often overload during "quick lifts" which can cause long-term wear or sudden failure. Stay 10-15% under the rated limit if you can. |
| Protect Hydraulic Lines | Install protective sleeves or guards on hydraulic hoses exposed to salt spray. Corrosion here is a top cause of crane shutdowns at sea. |
| Grease Regularly | Use marine-grade grease on slewing rings, pivot points, and boom joints at least every two weeks. More often in wet or high-use conditions. |
| Keep a Spare Pendant | If your crane uses a remote or wired pendant controller, keep a backup on board. They’re prone to water damage and cost downtime when they fail at sea. |
| Check Deck Bolts Monthly | Bolts anchoring the crane to the deck can loosen from constant vibration and stress. A quick torque check each month prevents long-term damage or instability. |
| Use It Monthly | Crane left idle too long? Run it monthly, even without a load, to cycle the hydraulic system and keep seals, joints, and wiring in healthy condition. |
| Train for Lift Angles | Many failures happen because of poor angle usage. Crews should be trained on safe lift geometry, especially on uneven sea conditions or moving decks. |
| Add a Weather Cover | A simple fitted cover can double the life of exposed components, especially when the vessel sits idle for long stretches or is docked in salty spray zones. |