Port Equipment Market Size - By Equipment, By Operation, By Propulsion, Growth Forecast, 2025 – 2034

Port Equipment Market Size

The global port equipment market was valued at USD 19.3 billion in 2024 and is estimated to register a CAGR of 5.7% between 2025 and 2034. International trade and containerized cargo are potent forces that drive the market. Globalization has also enhanced trade over the seas which has necessitated efficient infrastructure and advanced systems for cargo handling. To increase the efficiency of ports and accommodate the larger container vessels, there is a growing demand for ship-to-shore cranes, gantry cranes and automated container handling equipment.
 

Brunswick in Savannah Georgia became the largest automobile port in the United States in 2024 passing Baltimore, due to vehicle movements exceeding 841,000 units which corresponds to an increase of over 13%. This growth is representative of the phenomenon of outgrowing global trade and strengthens the argument for improved port systems to adjust to increased cargo traffic that needs to be serviced.
 

Smart ports along with automated container terminals are changing the landscape of the industry. Operational efficiency, turnaround time, and human input is improved through the utilization of artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things, and automated guided vehicles. With the need for enhanced safety, optimization of logistics processes, and real time monitoring, there is an investment around the world for semi-automated or fully automated systems.
 

The government and private sectors are investing heavily in developing and modernizing ports to keep up with trading activities that are growing globally. To improve deep-water port terminals and their storage capacities, lifting equipment for the ports are needed. Various modern cranes for ports, bulk material handling systems and terminal tractors are being purchased as part of the infrastructural development of developing countries in the Asia-Pacific and Middle East regions.
 

Port Equipment Market Trends

• The use of new technologies, such as AI logistics and digital twin applications, are reinventing port operations. Ports are implementing Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), remote cranes, and predictive maintenance of equipment to achieve higher efficiency and lower turnaround times. Rotterdam and Shanghai ports are emerging smart ports that already incorporate IoT sensors and blockchain technology for monitoring the flow of goods and ensuring port security.
   
• Ports are also focused on hybrid and electric cargo handling machinery purchases to decrease carbon footprint. There is an ongoing accelerated replacement of diesel Electric Rubber Tire Gantry (RTG) cranes and forklifts with battery operated machines. Also, shore power (cold ironing) has become standard practice where vessels plug into the power grid at the berth instead of burning fuel while docked, to comply with environmental and regulatory restrictions.
   
• The continual growth in the capacity of container ships and bulk carriers has necessitated the expansion of ports and the construction of deep-water terminals. Ports are modernizing their infrastructure with additional gantry cranes and automated stacking cranes, as well as increased dredging to accommodate the ultra-large vessels. There has been increased construction of new efficient port handling equipment following the expansion of the Panama and Suez canals.
   
• Forth Ports has declared that it will invest £50 million (USD 63 Million) at the Port of Leith in December 2024, following receipt of its largest offshore wind contract thus far. This investment is expected to facilitate the Inch Cape offshore wind farm which has an expected capacity of 1.1 gigawatts and expanding consolidation of port activities with clean energy developments.
   

Port Equipment Market Analysis

Based on equipment, the port equipment market is divided into cargo handling equipment, bulk material handling equipment and port infrastructure equipment. In cargo handling equipment segment held a market share of over 45% and is expected to cross USD 17.8 billion by 2034.  
 

• The great expansion of containerized cargo has resulted in the increased need of cargo handling equipment in ports. As international trade increases, ports require ship-to-shore (STS) cranes, rubber-tired gantry (RTG) cranes, straddle carriers, and reach stackers for the effective loading and unloading of container ships. With more than 90% of international trade, shipping economy, and container together economically contribute to increased investment in ports which in turn helps in investing in better cargo handling equipment.
   
• Fast turnover of vessels in ports is caused by the utilization of cargo handling equipment, ports operate with modern methods of decreasing berth occupation periods to receive more ships. Automatic stacking cranes (ASC) or terminal tractors and automated guided vehicles containerized cargo dominates other methods of loading and unloading cargo in ports. As ports become fully or partially automated the need for effective cargo handling equipment becomes ever more evident.
   
• In October 2024, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced an investment of USD3 billion for port infrastructure improvement with a focus on emission electrification and reduction for grant projects. This investment will improve emission control together with enhancement of cargo handling output on modern equipment, thus improving the industry’s emissions threatening image.
   
• Investors are sponsoring the expansion and modernization of ports to improve performance in handling containers. Most of the ports in the world, like Rotterdam, Singapore and Shanghai, have implemented sophisticated cargo handling systems using automation and AI to maximize productivity. Furthermore, the implementation of smart ports incorporating IoT sensors, predictive maintenance powered by AI, and digital twin technology is increasing the need for more sophisticated cargo handling machines.  
   

Based on the propulsion, the port equipment market is divided into diesel, electric and hybrid. In the diesel segment, it dominated the market accounting for 54% in 2024.
 

• Diesel-powered port equipment like RTG cranes, straddle carriers, and reach stackers, are more powerful and have greater load ability. These are the types of ports that receive bulky containers, bulk products, and very heavy items, which need potent torque alongside high strength. The challenging operations associated with these constant work requirements are best served by diesel engines because they offer highly efficient and steady power to help with cargo handling activity in busy ports.
   
• A well-established fueling infrastructure for diesel-powered equipment in most ports which makes electric and hybrid alternatives more complicated and expensive to operate. Modernizing ports for electrification would mean spending a lot more on charging pumps and boosting substations which many administrators deem too expensive. Also, thus far, diesel-powered equipment is more effective for ports trying to achieve high productivity because of their affordability in terms of up-front expenses and longer operational longevity.
   
• Even though there is a push towards making ports green or switching to electric ports, supply of hybrid electric cargo handling equipment is still low. There is continuous development in technology of battery-powered RTG, battery-operated forklifts, and battery-operated terminal tractors, but current models do have a short lifespan with a heavily diminished lifting capacity and a long charging time. Because ports need high intensity sustained operations, diesel equipment is still the front runner due to uninterrupted performance.
   
• Diesel is available and easily accessible across the globe, guaranteeing that both developed and emerging markets have ports which are consistently fueled. There is little adoption of alternative fuel sources like LNG, hydrogen, or electric charging infrastructure in many regions, especially in developing economies. Uninterrupted operational capabilities of diesel-powered equipment make it the most practical solution for global port operations as it is not regionally abundant, making it highly dependable.
   

Based on operation, the port equipment market is categorized into manual, semi-automated and fully automated. The manual segment held a market share of 48% in 2024.
 

• The investment needed for manual port equipment like forklifts, mobile cranes, and manually operated reach stackers is lower than that needed for semi-automated and fully automated alternatives. This equipment is also easier to maintain. Many small and medium sized ports, particularly in developing economies, prefer manual equipment due to its affordability. Automated solutions require a higher capital investment for software and skilled labor integrations which makes manual equipment a cheaper option.
   
• Manual equipment unlike automated ones can handle many varying types of cargo such as breakbulk, general cargo, and project shipments. Manual equipment is versatile and capable of moving irregular loads, irregularly shaped goods, and specialized cargo. Hence, adapted, manual cranes, forklifts, and pallet trucks are needed in ports that handle and process diverse freight operations.
   
• In October 2024, Konecranes announced plans to acquire Rotterdam-based Peinemann Port Services BV and Peinemann Container Handling BV, aiming to strengthen its manual equipment offerings and service capabilities in Europe's largest port.
   
• While many ports do not have preexisting high speed internet, automated tracking systems, and electric charging infrastructure, these ports will eventually need to upgrade them to make automation possible. Rather than spending fully automating cargo handling systems, developing regions would much rather spend their resources on trade infrastructure expansion. 
   

North America dominates the global port equipment market and U.S. leads the market in the region generating revenue of USD 3.5 billion in 2024.
 

• Among the world's most advanced and active ports are Los Angeles, Long Beach, and New York and New Jersey ports which are in the US. These ports, spending million dollars annually on port equipment such as shore-to-ship cranes, and tractors, handle millions of TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) every year. Dealing with with such a high volume of trade through US ports result in a dire necessity for continuous modernization and upgrade of port handling equipment.
   
• The U.S. is headed towards the forefront of smart port technologies, automation, and port digitization. Ports and terminals are investing on IoT-based logistic systems, AGVs, and even remote-controlled cranes for better efficiency. The US port equipment market is receiving an even greater boost by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (2021) which reserved billions for modernizing port infrastructure.
   
• Hyster-Yale Materials Handling, Terex Corporation, and Cargotec’s Kalmar division are just a handful of the leading port equipment manufacturers and suppliers that are in the U.S. The companies manufacture and market forklifts, reach stackers, cranes, and other heavy-duty port equipment domestically and internationally. The robust manufacturing ecosystem ensures constant availability of high-quality equipment, which makes the U.S. a superpower in the port equipment industry.
   
• In September 2024, U.S. ports secured a critical tariff exemption on Chinese-made cranes, resulting in savings of over USD 130 million in unexpected costs. The exemption came as a major relief for port authorities and terminal operators, who were previously facing high tariffs on essential cargo-handling equipment.
   

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

• Germany is the headquarters of some of the major port equipment manufacturers in the world, such as the crane specialists Liebherr Group and Terex Corporation, and Gottwald Port Technology which focuses on container handling and bulk material handling systems. Ports from all over the world get their cranes and container handling machinery from these companies. Germany ports are well known for having state of the art ship-to-shore (STS) cranes and mobile harbor cranes, and this only boosts Germanys reputation further as a leader in the stern equipment industry.
   
• As a pioneer of port automation and digitalization, Germany is investing steeply into smart stacking crane (ASC) and intelligent terminal operations, as well as AI powered logistics. Hamburg has gained a reputation for being the biggest and most advanced port in Germany due to its intelligent automation and AI cargo handling systems and serves as a global benchmark. The combination of 5G, IoT, and digital twin technology applied to port processes only boosts the German superiority in smart port solutions.
   
• The German government actively promotes electric and hybrid port equipment under green port policies to help cut down emissions. The introduction of shore power systems, hydrogen-powered cargo handling machines, and low emission cranes will step change the emission levels in Germany ports. Subsidized expenditure into intelligent logistics alongside the use of renewable energy means Germany will remain a forefront leader in sustainable port equipment solutions.
   
• In April 2024, Konecranes expanded its port services by acquiring German crane and service supplier Kocks Kranbau GmbH. This strategic move strengthens Konecranes' presence in the European market and provides access to new global customers, reflecting Germany's significant role in the port equipment industry.
   

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

• The largest manufacturers of port equipment are companies like Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries (ZPMC), SANY Heavy Industry, and XCMG have a competitive edge over other regions with their automation ship-to-shore cranes as well as straddle carriers, bulk material handling systems, and automated stacking cranes.
   
• China has the busiest ports to include Shanghai, Ningbo-Zhoushan, Shenzhen and Guanzhou. These in turn hand the highest cargo enabling billions of tons being taken care of Auxiliary Port Equipment investment is made each year in the purchase of high-efficiency cranes so that the deep-water terminals and smart ports are able to perform optimally with the high demand that is being noticed.
   
• In October 2024, Ericsson, China Mobile, and Zhangjiagang Port Group announced the successful deployment of a 5G-powered smart network at Zhangjiagang Port in Eastern China. This initiative has led to significant improvements in operational efficiency, energy savings, and cost reductions, showcasing China's leadership in integrating advanced technologies into port operations.
   
• Investment in AI driven logistics, along with 5G enabled terminals is enabling China to automate port equipment which makes it unmanned, which is the primary step towards automation everyone is striving towards. The port of Qingdao along with Yangshan Deep-Water Port, boast the most advanced AI powered cranes along with driverless electric trucks and blockchain cargo tracking. These aggressive options define the new era of smart port Taiwan plans to move towards cementing another reason as to why China is the market leader.
   

Port Equipment Market Share

Top 5 companies leading the port equipment industry in 2024 are Liebherr Group, Sany Heavy Industry Co., Ltd., Hyster-Yale Materials Handling, Inc., Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries (ZPMC) and Terex Corporation. Together, they hold around 41% market share in the port equipment market.
 

• Liebherr is at the forefront of port crane technology with fully electric cranes, automated stacking systems, and AI-powered control systems. Its LHM (Liebherr Mobile Harbor) cranes and LPS (Portal Slewing) cranes are among the most frequently employed in contemporary ports. Liebherr is a market leader due to its relentless focus on automation, digital twin and fuel-saving technologies.
   
• Liebherr has also pioneered the green transition with the electric and hybrid port cranes it introduced. The company's fully electric RTGs (rubber-tired gantry cranes) and hydrogen-fueled terminal machinery are part of its zero-emission cargo handling systems. As ports globally move towards more sustainable practices, Liebherr's sustainable solutions have ensured the company’s position as industry leaders.
   
• Sany Heavy Industry is the largest in China in mass construction machinery and is also one of the largest in the world competition of port machinery. The company offers a large variety of port machinery such as reach stackers, empty container handlers, rubber-tired gantry or RTG cranes, and ship to shore cranes. Sany is expanding in Asia, Africa, and Latin America and now competes with Western enterprises such as Liebherr and Kalmar.
   
• In February 2025, Liebherr announced a collaboration with Bharat Forge Ltd. to establish a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in India. This initiative focuses on advanced aerospace manufacturing, including the production of landing gear components, showcasing Liebherr's commitment to diversifying its engineering expertise.
   

Port Equipment Market Companies

Major players operating in the port equipment industry include:

• Anhui Heli
• Hyster-Yale Materials Handling
• Kalmar
• Konecranes
• Liebherr Group
• Sany Heavy Industry
• Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries (ZPMC)
• Terex
   
• Acquisitions and joint ventures in the port equipment sector enable market leaders to grow and invest in artificial intelligence for operational efficiency. Industry leaders are employing advanced AI technologies that comprehensively analyze data and optimize cargo handling or maintenance performance. Integration of AI powered cranes, automated terminal tractors, and logistical control systems enable companies to enhance port productivity, minimize idle periods, and efficiently allocate resources towards international trade activities.
   
• Ports are being enhanced by AI and automation, allowing companies to implement autonomous systems that actively make decisions. Smart terminals that use automated cranes, predictive analytics, and machine learning improve shipment tracking, vessel scheduling, and monitoring of security at the port. Working in partnership with AI specialists improves market positions through infrastructure, automated processes, and supply chain management to gain an advantage in competition among port operators in the modern logistics environment.
   
• To preserve their port equipment market share, leading companies are augmenting their financial R&D spending in AI-powered port security, predictive analytics, and smart automation systems. The innovations in real-time monitoring of port facilities brought about by automated maintenance scheduling and AI-driven fleet management is paradigm shift in the logistics of ports. The digitalization transformation in the industry accelerates processes such as container traceability and simplifies maritime commerce while guaranteeing prompt, secure, and economical operation of ports with the help of AI.
   
• Major players within the industry are working to build all-encompassing AI systems for intelligent cargo handling, predictive vessel management, and real-time logistics management. Implementation of smart features in cranes, autonomous container transporters, and automated control systems on ports are aiding in compliance with standards while increasing port productivity. Companies that embrace AI in the future of smart port technology will lead the rapidly changing global market for port equipment.
   

Port Equipment Industry News

• In December 2024, Konecranes completed the acquisition of Rotterdam-based Peinemann Port Services BV and Peinemann Container Handling BV. This strategic move aims to strengthen Konecranes' presence in Europe's largest port and enhance its service offerings in the port solutions sector.
   
• In September 2024, French shipping giant CMA CGM agreed to acquire a 48% stake in port terminal operator Santos Brasil for approximately $1.2 billion. Following this acquisition, CMA CGM plans to launch a full takeover bid, aiming to expand its control over global shipping infrastructure.
   
• In August 2024, India's Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone announced plans to acquire an 80% stake in offshore support vessel operator Astro Offshore for $185 million. This acquisition is part of Adani Ports' strategy to diversify its services beyond core port operations and enhance its fleet capabilities.
   
• In December 2024, Forth Ports revealed a £50 million investment in infrastructure improvements at the Port of Leith after securing its largest offshore wind contract. This investment aims to support the delivery of the 1.1-gigawatt Inch Cape offshore wind farm and is expected to create fifty jobs.
   

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

Market, By Equipment

• Cargo handling equipment
  • Ship-to-shore (STS) cranes
  • Rubber-tired gantry (RTG) cranes
  • Straddle carrier
  • Others
• Bulk material handling equipment
  • Ship loaders & unloaders
  • Hoppers & grabs
  • Conveyor systems
  • Bucket wheel reclaimers
• Port infrastructure equipment
  • Mooring systems
  • Dredging equipment
  • Floating cranes
  • Winches & capstans

Market, By Operation

• Manual
• Semi-Automated
• Fully Automated

Market, By Propulsion

• Diesel
• Electric
• Hybrid

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • UK
  • Germany
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Nordics
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • South Korea
  • Southeast Asia 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina 
• MEA
  • UAE
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia