
Belgian Logistics Firm Enhances Port Efficiency with Sustainable Equipment
Belgium’s Katoen Natie is taking a significant step toward greener port operations with the acquisition of four all-electric Konecranes Gottwald Mobile Harbor Cranes for its facilities at the Port of Antwerp. The order, placed in the first quarter of 2025, includes a 10-year service level agreement and is set for delivery in early 2026.

For over 170 years, Katoen Natie has been a key player in global logistics. Now, sustainability is at the core of its strategy, influencing every aspect of its operations. By investing in cutting-edge crane technology, the company continues to lead by example in modernizing port handling while reducing its environmental footprint.
The purchase includes two ESP.9 Konecranes Gottwald cranes, each with a maximum lifting capacity of 200 tonnes. These units are equipped with a Tandem-lift Assistant, allowing for a combined lifting capability of up to 400 tonnes. Additionally, two ESP.8 cranes, with a maximum lifting capacity of 150 tonnes each, will further enhance operations across multiple terminals.
Each crane features Konecranes’ advanced all-electric drive system, which seamlessly integrates an external power supply with rechargeable batteries. This system optimizes energy efficiency while eliminating local tailpipe emissions, aligning with the growing global push for sustainable port solutions. By adopting this technology, Katoen Natie joins an expanding list of port operators transitioning to fully electric material handling equipment.
“Katoen Natie has chosen Konecranes Gottwald mobile harbor cranes after a thorough evaluation of the existing solutions in the market. Konecranes’ all-electric drive concept is the best choice for achieving our goals in sustainable port operations while also offering a new level of performance,” said Tom Brouwers, Energy Manager at Katoen Natie.
To ensure maximum efficiency and minimal downtime, each crane is equipped with Konecranes TRUCONNECT for remote condition monitoring. The order also includes a decade-long service level agreement, which incorporates predictive maintenance solutions based on condition-based monitoring. Konecranes Service Frontline in Belgium will oversee the servicing, while special spare parts packages have been prepared to expedite maintenance processes.
“This was a long-term project where we worked closely with Katoen Natie to share our experience from a decade of field operations with all-electric drives. Through detailed technical discussions, we demonstrated the unparalleled combination of performance, reliability, and sustainability provided by this Konecranes technology,” said Alexandros Stogianidis, Regional Sales Manager at Konecranes.
This order aligns with Konecranes’ Ecolifting™ initiative, which aims to expand its positive environmental impact by offering solutions that help customers reduce their carbon footprint. From optimizing diesel-driven machinery to hybrid and fully electric fleets, Konecranes continues to push the boundaries of sustainable material handling technology.
With a firm commitment to innovation, operational efficiency, and environmental responsibility, Katoen Natie’s latest investment signals a broader industry trend toward more sustainable and high-performance port equipment.