Cutting-Edge Container Handling System To Transform London Gateway

DP World has taken a major step forward in the digitalisation and automation of its port operations by investing £170 million in groundbreaking container handling technology at its London Gateway logistics hub that will increase reliability, efficiency, capacity, and safety. 

Image: DP World

Developed by BOXBAY, a joint venture between DP World and Germany’s SMS group, the new Empty Superstack system represents a revolutionary approach to handling empty containers, according to a press release from the company.

Taking just over two years to complete, DP World said the project will transform port operations and set a new global benchmark for efficiency and safety through technology that is scalable, automated and sustainable. 

“By bringing this ingenious design to London Gateway, we are introducing advanced technology that will unlock faster throughput and contribute to higher safety standards,” explained Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World.

The project underscores DP World’s commitment to innovation at London Gateway, added Stephen Whittingham, Executive Vice President, North Europe, at DP World.

“The BOXBAY Empty Superstack will boost reliability for our customers, minimise truck visit times in port, and create a safer, smarter working environment for our people.”

Dramatic Improvements Expected

Using High Bay Storage (HBS) technology, BOXBAY will store 20- and 40-foot empty containers up to 16 tiers high inside a fully enclosed, automated facility. 

The result is a dramatic improvement in yard capacity, safety and efficiency; operating like a “giant vending machine for containers”, DP World explained.

The fully electric stacker cranes can handle containers with precision, retrieving and delivering them automatically for onward transport. 

Designed to integrate seamlessly into existing port operations, the modular Empty Superstack system requires no changes to landside or seaside interfaces. 

By removing multiple tiers of empty containers from the automated stacking crane (ASC) yard, the system reduces re-handling and housekeeping, allowing ASCs to operate more efficiently and improving performance across the quay. 

Ultimately, this means faster truck turnaround times and a more productive, sustainable terminal, DP World noted.

Installed at London Gateway’s new all-electric Berth 4, BOXBAY’s Empty Superstack will be capable of holding up to 27,000 TEUs and will deliver significant gains in safety, operational efficiency, and environmental performance.

Proven Technology Driving Global Port Innovation

DP World said the BOXBAY system has already proven its capabilities through extensive trials at its Jebel Ali Port in Dubai, where nearly 500,000 TEUs were handled using the technology. 

Its modular design and energy regeneration features make BOXBAY one of the most advanced and sustainable container handling systems in the world, the company noted.

As global trade evolves, the introduction of BOXBAY’s Empty Superstack at London Gateway demonstrates DP World’s ongoing investment in intelligent logistics and its vision to set new standards for efficiency, sustainability, and safety across the global port industry.