Liebherr secures contract to supply two STS cranes to Port Tampa Bay

Liebherr Container Cranes Ltd. has signed an agreement to deliver two ship-to-shore (STS) cranes to Port Tampa Bay in Florida, marking the company’s first STS installation on the state’s Gulf Coast. The cranes form part of the port’s Vision 2030 master plan and will support ongoing expansion of its container handling capacity.

The cranes, to be manufactured at Liebherr’s facility in Killarney, Ireland, are designed with a 60-metre outreach, 50-metre lift height, 20-metre back reach and a twin-lift capacity of 65 tonnes. The configuration will accommodate larger and wider container vessels calling at the port.

Safety and performance systems—including anti-sway technology, anti-collision features, snag-load protection and a curve-going gantry system—are incorporated into the design. Each unit will also include Liebherr’s remote diagnostics tools, predictive maintenance systems and ship-profiling technology to support operational consistency and reduce unplanned downtime.

The new equipment aligns with Port Tampa Bay’s plan to expand its container terminal to 100 acres. The development includes a third deep-water berth, additional paved storage and a rail-served transload facility. The port is targeting a long-term throughput capacity of 1 million TEUs per year as part of its Vision 2030 goals.

Liebherr notes that the cranes are equipped with energy-efficient drives and regenerative power systems intended to reduce emissions and support the port’s sustainability initiatives.

“We are proud to partner with Port Tampa Bay as it advances a major phase of its Vision 2030 container expansion,” said Winston Ziegler, Head of Sales Maritime Cranes, Liebherr USA, Co. “These Liebherr STS cranes are engineered for productivity, safety, and long-term reliability. With our nationwide service network, we will support the port throughout the lifecycle of the cranes as they accommodate larger vessels and increasing cargo volumes.”

Paul Anderson, President & CEO of Port Tampa Bay, said the cranes play a strategic role in the port’s future:
“These STS cranes from Liebherr are a critical component of our Vision 2030 plan and will significantly strengthen our ability to serve Florida’s rapidly expanding growth along the I-4 corridor. Their advanced technology and performance features will enhance berth productivity, reduce vessel turn times, and support future operational goals. This compliments our long-term growth plans with our strategic partner Ports America.” The agreement adds to Liebherr’s expanding portfolio of equipment installations at U.S. ports. Liebherr USA’s service teams and parts hubs in Virginia, Mississippi, Michigan, Texas, Florida and other locations will support the cranes once operational.