Europe Port Equipment Market Size - By Equipment, By Operation Mode, By Power Source, By Application, Growth Forecast, 2025 - 2034

Europe Port Equipment Market Size

The Europe port equipment market was valued at USD 4.6 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.5% between 2025 and 2034. The advanced and energy-efficient port equipment is in high demand due to the surge of infrastructural development in european ports, especially in developed nations. As per the European Sea Ports Organisation (ESPO) Port Investments Study 2024, it is estimated that European ports will require approximately USD 86 billion worth of investments in the next decade, with the underlying focus on sustainability and energy transition.
 

The adoption rate of electric and hybrid port equipment is further encouraged by the sustainability commitments due to the emerging new technologies. Companies are working on developing new batteries and low-emission equipment. The emission reduction policy by the European Union is increasing the R&D activities for hybrid and electric port equipment technologies that aim to cut fuel usage by 35%.
 

The EU’s policies on emissions are facilitating the uptake of electric port equipment in Europe, which supports sustainability initiatives. Ports around Europe, particularly in regions like Rotterdam and Antwerp-Bruges, have begun to adopt zero-emission infrastructure and port equipment. As an example, in December 2023, Hyster entered into a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding with Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG (HHLA) to provide two hydrogen fuel cell-powered container handling vehicles. This demand for emission-free equipment is seeking to reduce the environmental footprint of operations, which port users consume in large quantities.
 

Europe Port Equipment Market Trends

• In the EU, Eurostat reported that in the second quarter of 2024, Rotterdam remained the single most active port of the union, still leading all others in activity with 100.3 million tonnes of gross weight of goods. Antwerp-Bruges came in second with 64.7 while Hamburg accounted for 24.7 million tonnes. These ever-increasing figures in the volume of cargo handled heightens the need for optimizing advanced port equipment to ensure operational effectiveness.
   
• The European port industry has seen a massive shift with investments in automation technologies. In an effort to heighten operational efficiency, terminal operators are shifting towards automated solutions as a means of effective cost and labor reduction as well as meeting improved safety standards. Container terminals particularly benefit from this automation trend where the use of remotely controlled Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), stacking cranes, and other similar equipment is on the rise.
   
• The port industry in Europe has marked an increase in focus towards sustainability. Sustainable policies have pushed for the shift towards the electrification of port equipment and hybrid power solutions, stringent regulations set forth by authorities also act as an important contribution.
   
• Investment towards the diverse segments of port equipment aimed at enhanced control of operations, improved safety measures for the operator, and environmental regulatory compliance has markedly increased. The adoption of contemporary technologies such as telematics, automated video weighing and registration, alongside ergonomic enhancements is being regarded as standard.
   
• Though modern port machinery has performance benefits, high initial expenditure and maintenance costs are still barriers in the European market. This is especially the case with fully automated models designed for difficult port environments.
   
• Like many other equipment of modern machinery, advanced port equipment follows a more complex system and therefore requires specialized training for proper use. The skilled labor challenge is an industry problem. These issues can be resolved with better training programs, affordable leasing options, and policies that promote sustainable use throughout Europe’s diverse port systems.
   

Europe Port Equipment Market Analysis

Based on equipment, the Europe port equipment market is segmented into reachstackers, straddle carriers, empty container handlers (ECH), RTG (rubber-tired gantry) cranes, and terminal tractors. In 2024, the reachstackers segment held a market revenue of over USD 1.2 billion and is expected to cross USD 1.9 billion by 2034.
 

• Along with the introduction of the new policies such as EU Stage V, Europe has been toughening emission regulation policies. This has resulted in manufacturers coming up with new technologies focused on fuel economy, emission targets, and eco-friendly diesel hybrids. The range of clean diesel engines and hybrids greatly reduce CO2 emission and aid in meeting the fuel targets. Moreover, these systems use turbochargers and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology that reduce noxious gas emission alongside low emission operation modes.
   
• The selection of power source significantly alters the performance and efficiency of port equipment. Newer port equipment is outfitted with either hybrid or electric power systems. These systems improve fuel efficiency of the vessels and lower emission. With these systems, the operator can control the equipment in the course of performing the job while maintaining stringent environmental guidelines.
   
• As an example in March 2025, Konecranes got an order from CSP Iberian Valencia Terminal for seven hybrid RTG cranes. These cranes are fitted with advanced hybrid drive technologies which substantially lower fuel usage and CO² emissions. Active Load Control (ALC), Gantry Collision Prevention, and Truck Lift Prevention systems are also integrated into the cranes, which also improves operational and terminal safety at the Valencia terminal.
   
• Telemetry and machine interconnectivity capture all ranges of power with real-time monitoring of performance, consumption of fuel, and maintenance check requirements. Enhancements in port productivity and operator safety have recently been achieved as all classes of port equipment and AI technology are being automated.

Based on operation mode, the Europe port equipment market is divided into manual and automatic. The manual segment held a major market share of around 61% in 2024 and is expected to grow significantly over the forcast period.
 

• The older models of port equipment are still used in manual forms by some smaller ports and terminals that have a low volume of cargo as there is no need for them to invest in automated systems. These ports and terminals rely on older systems. Such equipment types are more flexible and are certainly adaptable to different types of operating conditions. Operators are overhauling their equipment in more manual systems and adding features such as active monitoring systems and improved ergonomics.
   
• The automatic type is growing the fastest which is of no surprise given the focus on operational efficiency, and throughput in larger container terminals. Automated systems eliminate the need for manual labor, therefore operational efficiency goes up, along with the safety standards. The application of AI, machine learning, and IoT technologies is further improving automated capabilities of port equipment.
   
• Terminal automation as with other types, incurs a hefty initial investment, but amends favorable operational efficiency and low costs of manual labor in the long run. Automated systems also make terminals a lot more safer. Developing semi-automated ports is new to the market as they balance the positive aspect of increased automation with the cost of investing.
   

Based on power source, the Europe port equipment market is segmented into diesel, electric, and hybrid. The diesel segment dominated the market and accounted for over USD 1 billion in 2024.
 

• The reason diesel-powered equipment continues to dominate the market is because of their well-established presence, reliability, and power output capabilities. Though, manufacturers are ever increasingly focusing on developing cleaner diesel engines that comply with stringent emission standards such as EU Stage V. Advanced diesel engines are built using technologies like SCR and diesel particulate filters to reduce emissions.
   
• Propelled by sustainability aspirations and governance constraints, the industry has shifted towards electric-powered equipment thus causing the segment to experience rapid growth. In addition to zero emissions during operation, electric equipment is subdued and more cost-effective over the equipment's lifecycle. The development of high capacity batteries and fast-charging technologies further augment the appeal of electric equipment therefore enabling enhanced productivity.
   
• Equipment that is hybrid powered works as transition technology, merging diesel and electric power. Typically, these systems rely on diesel engines for high-power operations, with electric systems supporting lower-power tasks, both improving fuel efficiency and emissions. Hybrid port equipment is expected to capture a considerable portion of the market as port operators try to find the balance between operational demands and sustainability targets.
   

Based on application, the Europe port equipment market is segmented into container handling, bulk handling, and ship handling. The container handling segment dominated the market and accounted for over USD 2.8 billion in 2024.
 

• In container handling, ports have specialized terminal machinery to perform specific tasks of container handling such as loading, unloading, or stacking containers in particular locations within the terminal. Because of Stage V emission limits, Europe's strict emission regulations has caused manufacturers to shift their focus to fuel economy increase to comply with it, port equipment.
   
• Most recently developed models of port equipment have pioneered the use of hybrid or fully electric drivetrains in order to comply with carbon emission restrictions and other environmental policies. This change is motivated by further governmental and ecological forces that are compelling port operators to replace diesel engines with cleaner, more energy-efficient technologies.
   
• Models of European bulk handling ports have greater payload capacities for boosting productivity in ports dealing with coal, grains and minerals. The equipment also features more powerful structural and hydraulic systems in order to withstand the high material volume.
   
• Ports are increasingly equipping ship handling tools with hybrid and electric engines to reduce emissions and meet operational power standards while upholding international environmental regulation.

Western Europe dominated the Europe port equipment market with a major share of over 40% in 2024 and Germany leads the market in Western division and it is expected that sales in terms of shipment will go above 2,000 Units by 2034.

• Ports in Germany such as Hamburg and Bremerhaven are adopting electric powered cranes, terminal tractors, and even Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) to lower carbon emissions and enhance energy efficiency. For example, the port of Hamburg has been proactively using electric straddle carriers and hybrid RTGs (rubber-tyred gantry cranes).
   
• The ports serviced by the Netherlands are experiencing a sustained demand due to new infrastructural investments, which are predicted to increase in further resperct to the demand for port equipment. Rotterdam was at the helm of the EU ports in liquid bulk cargo in Q2 2024, to be followed by Antwerp-Bruges, Marseille, Trieste and Gdansk. Trieste experienced the most significant growth with an impressive 15.1% increase in comparison to the previous year’s Q2. Gdansk and Antwerp-Bruges also saw a 3.2% and 2.5% growth respectively.
   
• With the introduction of Stage V emission requirements in the EU, modern electric and hybrid ports are becoming more appealing to port operators. Dutch manufacturers are equipping their products with advanced hydraulic systems and energy efficient servomotors to meet emissions and greenhouse gasses’ restrictions.
   
• Port automation is becoming standard in strategic European ports. As per Eurostats, by the end of 2025, over 60% of Western European ports’ fleet will be equipped with telematics and AI optimization systems.
   
• Manufacturers like Konecranes, Kalmar, and Hyster are capturing more clients through electric and hybrid port equipment, further strengthening the Western Europe Region's international leadership in eco-friendly port machinery.
   

The U.K. port equipment market in Northern Europe is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2025 to 2034.
 

• The UK's growth in the port sector, including the expansion of container and bulk terminals, is driven by new digital initiatives, expansion projects, and increased investment in advanced port equipment. Major UK ports like Felixstowe, Southampton, and London Gateway are upgrading their facilities to increase efficiency and productivity.
   
• With the increase in port operator adoptions of carbon-neutral policies, the UK is foreseen to change to low carbon alternatives during the port equipment sales period with 40% expecting to be electric or hybrid by 2028. 
   
• The expansion of the lease and rental markets is assisting small and medium port operators acquire high capacity machinery without the financial burden of upfront capital expenditures. 
   
• The advent of AI and machine learning has led to dramatic shifts in the UK port machinery sector. New GPS AI frameworks commanded by larger OEMs are launching public and private sector endeavors.
   

The Italy port equipment market in the Southern Europe is anticipated to witness lucrative growth between 2025 and 2034.
 

• The modernization processes of Mediterranean ports are driving greater demands for Italy’s advanced and specialized equipment because of their operational efficiencies. In Italy, port infrastructure development demands agility that is supplied by multifunctional equipment. To mitigate the carbon footprint of port operations, Italy introduced a program that offers tax refunds on the use of hybrid and electric port machinery, which drives the demand for green initiatives.
   
• There is an increase of aftermarket business opportunities in Italy pertaining to specialized port equipment, as customized attachments are in high demand for the diverse Italian port network.
   
• Alongside Italy’s major ports expansion, there is a continuous influx of funding from domestic and EU sources which addresses the demand for high-capacity equipment, especially for bulk and containerized cargo handling. 
   
• Under the EU infrastructure-funded scheme, local producers are increasing the output of complex port equipment tailored for the Mediterranean market, driving up demand for the other peripherals.
   

The Poland port equipment market in Eastern Europe is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2025 to 2034.
 

• The Polish national policy on transport routes anticipates the enhancement of Baltic Sea ports, which increases the necessity for multipurpose port special gears crude and bulk tools.
   
• Poland’s integration into global trade has led to an increase in container traffic for Polish ports, which further stimulates the demand for sophisticated Polish container handling systems which increases the Polish economy.
   
• The purchase of hybrid and electric systems of port facilities is now possible as a result of low emission grants given by the European Union which Poland earmarked for lowering emissions in Eastern Europe’s infrastructure ports development.
   

Europe Port Equipment Market Share

• Top 7 companies of Europe port equipment industry are Konecranes, Kalmar (Cargotec), ZPMC (Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries), Liebherr, Hyster-Yale Group, SANY, Terex Port Solutions, collectively hold around 63% of the market in 2024.
   
• Konecranes has been able to stay a top competitor in the European port equipment market due to their product advancements and the application of newer technologies. In December 2024, Konecranes completed the acquisition of Peinemann Port Services BV and Peinemann Container Handling BV located in Rotterdam.
   
• Kalmar (Cargotec) has added eco-friendly features to its port equipment and increased its range of electric port equipment. For instance, in September 2024, Kalmar released its new G-generation terminal tractors, featuring fully electric powertrains and advanced automation capabilities. These tractors promise a 25% reduction in total cost of ownership compared to diesel alternatives and are designed for seamless integration with automated terminal systems.
   
• Liebherr is expanding its port equipment portfolio by developing new models with automatization and hybrid power capabilities to strengthen it's position in Europe. The powerful focus on innovation and quality helps the company to remain a premium supplier in Europe. 
   
• SANY Group is increasing brand presence across Europe by establishing more distribution points and utilizing economic pricing. By using cost-effective approaches without losing the value of quality, the company has gained support from small and medium-sized port operators.
   
• Hyster-Yale Materials Handling has began participating more actively on the reachstacker and empty container handler markets. The company's new H-series reachstackers has ergonomic and fuel efficiency improvements aimed at European operators. Furthermore, Hyster-Yale has bolstered its aftermarket services network throughout Europe to offer integrated support during the entire lifecycle of the equipment. 
   
• Port Solutions division of Terex Corporation has a broad portfolio of port machinery with emphasis on customization and after-sales service. This focus on customer has helped the company defend its position in the European market. 
   
• While ZPMC is mainly known for its ship-to-shore cranes, the company is diversifying its product line into port machinery. Their strength in the market is the ability to create integrated solutions for large scale terminal projects.
   

Europe Port Equipment Market Companies

Major players operating in the Europe port equipment industry include:

• Doosan Infracore
• Hyster-Yale Materials Handling
• Hyundai Construction Equipment
• Kalmar (Cargotec)
• Konecranes
• Liebherr
• SANY
• Svetruck
• Terex Port Solutions
• ZPMC
   

Sustainability driven electric and hybrid port equipment intended for use in urban and environmentally sensitive areas is already being developed by industry leaders such as Konecranes and Kalmar (Cargotec). Innovation also includes fully electric propulsion, hybrid drivetrains, and automation. Such systems are responding to the market need for clean energy powered, emission-controlled machines like EU Stage V compliant scrubbers and machines that meet other standards that are due to be implemented soon.
 

The adoption of hydrogen fuel cell technology poses the greatest opportunity for Europe’s port equipment industry, supporting the region’s strict decarbonization policies in addition to zero-emission demands. Hydrogen port vehicles and machinery are increasingly being utilized in pilot projects and strategic partnerships at European terminals because of their cleaner operational capabilities without sacrificing performance and refueling convenience.
 

Europe Port Equipment Industry News

• In December 2024, Konecranes signed a contract with CSP Iberian Valencia Terminal for the acquisition of seven hybrid RTG cranes that specialize in fuel hybrid drive technology for telescopic cranes which minimizes fuel consumption and CO? emissions. These cranes are equipped with ALC, Gantry Collision Prevention, and Truck Lift Prevention resulting in augmented operational efficiency and safety. 
   
• In December 2024, Kalmar Ottawa introduced the OT2 EV, its electric terminal tractor hybrid of the third generation from their facility in Ottawa, Kansas. The OT2 EV exists in four versions: two for container ports and terminals with higher lift ratios and two for distribution including a road version for North America. 
   
• In November 2024, Nekkar's subsidiary Techano Oceanlift got a contract to build a 150-tonne knuckle boom active heave compensated winch crane with a 3,200 meter wire and complex control systems from Nekkar's Intellilift in the amount of USD 8 million for Sefine Shipyard to support a new subsea construction vessel.
   
• In June 2024, Cargotec completed its partial demerger, which opened up Kalmar’s class B shares for independent trading on Nasdaq Helsinki. This decision was made so that Cargotec and Kalmar could concentrate on their own principal operations independently, optimizing shareholder value.
   

The Europe port equipment market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecasts in terms of revenue ($Mn/Bn) and shipment (Units) from 2021 to 2034, for the following segments:

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Market, By Equipment

• Reachstackers
• Straddle carriers
• Empty container handlers (ECH)
• RTG (rubber-tired gantry) cranes
• Terminal tractors

Market, By Operation Mode

• Manual
• Automatic

Market, By Power Source

• Diesel
• Electric
• Hybrid

Market, By Application

• Container handling
• Bulk handling
• Ship handling

The above information is provided for the following regional divisions and countries:

• Western Europe
  • Germany
  • Austria
  • France
  • Switzerland
  • Belgium
  • Luxembourg
  • Netherlands
  • Portugal
• Eastern Europe
  • Poland
  • Romania
  • Czech Republic
  • Slovenia
  • Hungary
  • Bulgaria
• Northern Europe
  • UK
  • Denmark
  • Sweden
  • Finland
  • Norway
• Southern Europe
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Greece