An RTG (Rubber Tyred Gantry) Crane is a mobile workhorse for container handling. Unlike rail-bound cranes, RTGs travel on rubber tires, offering unmatched flexibility for stacking, transferring, and loading containers in ports, intermodal yards, and storage facilities. This guide explains everything you need to know.
Diesel-Electric: Onboard generator. Highest mobility, higher fuel cost.
Electric (Grid-Powered): Powered via cable reel. Energy-efficient, zero emissions, limited range.
Hybrid: Combines diesel with energy storage. Cuts fuel use by 30-50%, balances mobility and eco-friendliness.
3-4 rows: For compact terminals.
5-6 rows: Industry standard for large ports.
7-8+ rows: For maximum yard density.
30-40 tons: Standard for 20ft-45ft containers.
40+ tons: For heavy loads or special containers.
| Lifting Capacity | Typical Span | Stacking Height | Recommended Power System |
| 30 tons | 3-4 rows | 1-over-3 | Diesel-Electric |
| 35 tons | 4-6 rows | 1-over-4 | Electric or Diesel |
| 40 tons | 5-8 rows | 1-over-5 | Hybrid/Electric |
| 40+ tons | 6-8+ rows | 1-over-5+ | Hybrid/Custom |
RTGs are vital in three main areas:
1. Container Terminals
Move containers from quay cranes to storage stacks.
Perform dense yard stacking (up to 1-over-6).
Load/unload trucks at the gate.
2. Intermodal Rail/Truck Hubs
Transfer containers between rail cars and trucks.
Manage and reorganize yard inventory efficiently.
3. Large Storage Yards & Distribution Centers
Handle inbound/outbound container storage.
Facilitate order picking and container consolidation.
Why pick an RTG? Four key benefits:
Flexibility: Move freely, adapt to peak demand, and redeploy easily.
Cost-Effective: Lower upfront cost than installing rail networks for RMGs.
Space Efficient: Enables high-density stacking without dedicated lanes.
Performance: Robust design for continuous, heavy-duty operation.
Assess Load & Span: Determine max container weight and required yard coverage (rows).
Choose Power: Diesel for full mobility; Electric for fixed, green operations; Hybrid for a balance.
Plan for Growth: Consider future throughput and potential automation (auto-steering, GPS).
Calculate Total Cost: Factor in energy, maintenance, and part replacement (e.g., tires every 3-5 years).
Preventive maintenance is key to a 15-25 year lifespan.
Daily/Weekly: Visual checks of structure, tires, spreader.
Monthly/Quarterly: Inspect motors, brakes, gears; professional load testing.
Record Keeping: Document all service to predict and prevent failures.
Q: What’s the main difference between RTG and RMG?
A: RTGs move on rubber tires; RMGs run on fixed rails. RTGs are flexible, RMGs are precise.
Q: How long does an RTG crane last?
A: The main structure lasts 15-25 years with proper maintenance. Tires are replaced every 3-5 years.
Q: What power system is best?
A: Electricfor low cost/emissions in fixed areas. Diesel for total mobility. Hybridfor fuel savings and flexibility.
RTG cranes are the backbone of flexible container handling. Their rubber-tired design is ideal for ports, intermodal yards, and storage facilities that value adaptability, cost-efficiency, and dense storage.
The Bottom Line: If your operation requires moving containers across a large, dynamic yard without the constraint of rails, an RTG crane is likely your optimal solution. Evaluate your capacity, span, and power needs carefully to make the right choice.
Discover the power of mobility with our tire cranes! Engineered for exceptional lifting capacity and unmatched flexibility, these versatile machines move seamlessly across any job site. Boost your project efficiency with reliable performance and robust durability. Perfect for construction, logistics, and industrial applications.
Container gantry cranes can travel on rail by means of the yard power, usually powered by cab...
Learn More Get a Quote
Rail Mounted Container Gantry Crane is a medium and heavy size crane which travels in track. ...
Learn More Get a Quote
Looking for a reliable and efficient gantry crane for your lifting needs? Explore Sinoko Elec...
Learn More Get a Quote
