PD Ports has expanded its operational capabilities at Teesport with the addition of a third electric Liebherr LPS 550 mobile harbour crane, reinforcing its long-term strategy to improve efficiency, reliability, and berth flexibility for bulk and mixed cargo operations. Delivered from Liebherr’s manufacturing facility on the Baltic coast, the latest LPS 550 crane will support bulk cargo handling activities at Teesport and complement two identical units commissioned in 2023. The investment is expected to strengthen hatch coverage, maintain stable cargo handling cycle times, and improve operational resilience during periods of peak demand.
Teesport is one of the United Kingdom’s major logistics and industrial gateways, handling tens of millions of tonnes of cargo annually while contributing more than £1.4 billion to the regional economy. The port benefits from deep-water access, integrated rail connectivity, and direct road links that support efficient movement of goods across domestic and international markets.
PD Ports stated that the decision to expand the LPS 550 fleet reflects growing demand for dependable and energy-efficient cargo handling infrastructure capable of supporting complex bulk shipping schedules and diversified freight requirements. The Liebherr LPS 550 crane has been selected for its high lifting capacity, operational reliability, and ability to support both bulk and mixed cargo handling.
The crane offers a maximum lifting capacity of 144 tonnes and extended outreach capabilities that reduce the need for frequent repositioning while working across larger vessel hatches. According to the company, the addition of the third crane increases berth flexibility and enhances Teesport’s ability to manage simultaneous cargo operations while maintaining turnaround efficiency for shipping customers.
Grant Honzik, Business Unit Director – Bulks at PD Ports, said the investment forms part of the company’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the long-term resilience and capacity of its bulk operations. Mr Honzik stated that the performance and reliability of the two previously deployed Liebherr cranes have consistently met operational expectations. He noted that the latest addition provides greater flexibility at the berth and creates additional operational headroom during high-demand periods.
According to Mr Honzik, the expanded crane fleet will help customers benefit from faster vessel turnaround times, consistent cargo handling performance, and improved operational reliability. He added that the investment aligns with PD Ports’ broader strategy to maintain Teesport as a dependable high-capacity gateway for bulk and mixed cargo flows.
The new LPS 550 operates entirely on shore power using an electric drive system, eliminating the need for onboard fuel combustion and supporting quieter, lower-emission port operations. The electric drive enables smoother and more precise crane movements, helping operators maintain efficiency and consistency during extended shifts.
PD Ports stated that the crane’s portal design also allows unrestricted movement for trucks and rail vehicles underneath the structure, supporting seamless cargo transfer across Teesport’s integrated transport network connected through the A66 and A19 road corridors.
The company emphasized that equipment reliability remains a key operational priority due to the port’s high cargo throughput and time-sensitive shipping schedules. Liebherr Great Britain’s sales and service teams continue to provide maintenance support, spare parts access, and technical assistance tailored around vessel and rail schedules to minimize operational disruption.
Gavin Robinson, Crane Electrical Manager at PD Ports, said the two existing LPS 550 cranes have delivered strong results in terms of both handling volumes and equipment reliability. He added that the engineering team works closely with Liebherr Great Britain to maintain fleet efficiency and maximize operational uptime.
David Vaughan, Divisional Manager Maritime & Port Equipment at Liebherr Great Britain, said the continued partnership with PD Ports demonstrates growing confidence in the company’s equipment and support services. He noted that the strong operational performance of the original units played an important role in the decision to expand the fleet.
PD Ports stated that the investment reflects a long-term approach focused on operational reliability, efficient energy use, and sustainable infrastructure development. With Teesport’s established industrial base and strong trade links across North Sea shipping routes, the company believes the expanded crane fleet will help support future cargo growth and strengthen the port’s competitive position in regional and international logistics markets.
