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Multiterminais has taken delivery of two new ship to shore cranes for its MultiRio container terminal at the Port of Rio de Janeiro, a move that strengthens the terminal’s ability to handle larger container vessels and supports a broader expansion programme aimed at lifting annual capacity to 1 million TEU.
The cranes, supplied by ZPMC, arrived fully assembled aboard the heavy lift vessel Zhen Hua 15 on June 10 and have since been unloaded at the terminal. Commissioning activities are now underway, with technicians from the Chinese manufacturer supporting installation and testing ahead of full operational deployment expected by August.
The investment, valued at approximately R$110 million (US$21 million), increases MultiRio’s fleet of ship to shore cranes to seven units. According to the company, the additional equipment will allow the terminal to work two large vessels simultaneously, reducing turnaround times and improving berth productivity at one of Brazil’s key container gateways.
Expansion Targets Larger Container Ships
The arrival of the cranes comes as shipping lines continue deploying larger vessels across South America’s east coast trade routes. MultiRio recently received the MSC Katrina, a 366 metre container ship with a capacity of 13,000 TEU, marking the largest vessel ever to call at the Port of Rio de Janeiro.
Terminal operators across the region have been investing in larger cranes, deeper berths and expanded yard capacity to accommodate growing vessel sizes and improve operating efficiency. For cargo owners and shipping lines, the ability to handle larger ships can lower transport costs per container while supporting more direct service options.
According to Multiterminais, the new cranes will enable the terminal to handle the largest container vessels currently operating along the east coast of South America, strengthening Rio de Janeiro’s position within regional and international shipping networks.
Long Term Investment Strategy
The crane acquisition forms part of a wider investment programme linked to MultiRio’s concession agreement. The terminal secured Container Terminal II at the Port of Rio de Janeiro under a 25 year concession in 1998. A further 25 year extension was approved in 2011, securing operating rights through 2048.
As part of that extension, Multiterminais committed approximately R$200 million in expansion investments. The broader development programme for MultiRio and the adjacent MultiCar vehicle terminal is expected to reach R$500 million and includes quay improvements, additional storage facilities, upgraded gate infrastructure and new cargo handling equipment.
Planned investments also include 30 rubber tyred gantry cranes and five Super Post Panamax portainers designed to support higher container volumes and larger vessel calls.
Capacity Growth and Regional Competition
MultiRio currently operates with an 800 metre berth, a draft of 15.3 metres and a terminal area of 251,000 square metres. The facility’s annual handling capacity stands at roughly 670,000 TEU.
Following completion of the expansion programme, capacity is expected to increase to 1 million TEU annually, representing a 49% rise. The additional capacity is expected to support growing import and export volumes while enhancing the Port of Rio de Janeiro’s competitiveness against other major container hubs along Brazil’s coastline.
For shipping lines evaluating port calls in eastern South America, the combination of larger crane capacity, expanded infrastructure and the ability to accommodate bigger vessels could influence future service deployment decisions as regional trade volumes continue to evolve.
