TIPS Drives B4 Terminal into a Smart & Green Future with Four New Hybrid RTG Cranes

As Thailand’s trade and industrial sectors continue to expand, particularly within the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), the readiness of the country’s logistics infrastructure has become an increasingly important factor in supporting national competitiveness. For container terminals serving Laem Chabang Port, this means not only handling higher volumes but also improving yard efficiency, safety, service reliability, and environmental performance.

TIPS Co., Ltd. (TIPS), a Thai-owned container terminal operator at Laem Chabang Port, is moving forward with a major investment in four new Rubber-Tyred Gantry (RTG) cranes for Terminal B4. The investment, valued at approximately USD 7.46 million, or more than THB 250 million, is aimed at increasing terminal capacity, improving container yard management, and supporting the development of B4 Terminal into a Smart and Green Terminal.

All four new RTGs are GENMA Rubber-Tyred Gantry Cranes manufactured by Jiangsu Rainbow Industrial Equipment Co., Ltd. of China. The cranes arrived in Thailand on 9 June 2026 and are scheduled for installation, testing, and commissioning by 4 August 2026 before entering full operation at Terminal B4.

In this issue, LM had the opportunity to speak with Mr. Teerapol Shinno, Vice President of TIPS Co., Ltd., about the arrival of the latest hybrid RTG cranes and the company’s ongoing commitment to investing in infrastructure, technology, and operational standards to support the future growth of Thailand’s logistics and maritime transportation sectors.

Capacity Growth Requires Capacity Investment

Mr. Teerapol explained that Terminal B4 currently handles an average of more than 800,000 TEUs annually, approximately 30 percent above its original design capacity. Despite this strong operational demand, the terminal continues to maintain a high level of service quality recognised and trusted by shipping lines, importers, exporters, and other customers.

These figures reflect the growing demands placed on Terminal B4 and highlight the importance of careful planning in container yard management, cargo-handling equipment utilisation, and operational system development. With more than 1,500 trucks entering and exiting the terminal each day, efficient yard management has a direct impact on cargo-handling speed, truck turnaround times, and the key performance indicators that customers value most.

As container volumes continue to grow, investment in new equipment is no longer simply an option. It has become essential to maintain service quality, strengthen operational efficiency, and ensure that terminal services can continue to support Thailand’s import and export sectors.

Hybrid RTG: More Than Equipment

The addition of four new hybrid RTG cranes is expected to significantly enhance container yard operations at Terminal B4. According to TIPS, the investment will increase terminal capacity by approximately 15 percent, accommodate an additional 130,000 TEUs annually, and improve yard productivity by around 20 percent. It is also expected to reduce vessel and truck turnaround times, resulting in faster and more efficient container-handling operations.

“In the terminal business, KPIs are not measured solely by throughput volume,” Mr. Teerapol explained. “They also include speed, safety, accuracy, and the ability to provide consistent and reliable service to customers.”

The new cranes are designed with a stacking capacity of 6+1 wide and one-over-six high, with a maximum lifting capacity of 41 tons. They are equipped with a range of intelligent systems that support greater accuracy, flexibility, and visibility across terminal operations. These include an Automatic Gantry Steering System with Base Station, Auto TOS Reporting, a Stack Profiling System with Auto Path Optimization Function, a Container Position Determination System, and a Chassis Positioning System.

The RTGs are also fitted with key safety features, including an Anti-Collision System, Chassis Lift Prevention System, Automatic Fire Detection and Suppression System, and Overload Prevention System. These technologies are designed to reduce operational risk, enhance workplace safety, and provide greater confidence to customers and stakeholders.

Together, these systems reflect TIPS’ focus on both productivity and safety, while supporting the company’s transition towards smarter and more data-driven terminal operations.

Green Port in Action

One of the most important features of the new RTGs is their hybrid power system, which can reduce fuel consumption and energy usage by up to 60 percent compared with conventional RTGs. This provides benefits beyond lower operating costs, as it also helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and supports the environmental goals of both TIPS and Laem Chabang Port.

Mr. Teerapol said the adoption of hybrid RTGs is closely aligned with the company’s ESG commitments and long-term sustainability strategy. By reducing energy consumption while improving operational performance, the investment supports TIPS’ goal of developing B4 Terminal into a more efficient and environmentally responsible port facility.

In addition to the new hybrid RTGs, TIPS has also incorporated electric-powered Reach Stackers and Empty Container Handlers into its operations, while continuing to strengthen preventive maintenance programmes for existing equipment. This integrated approach reflects the company’s broader commitment to transforming its operations into a more sustainable Green Terminal.

Supporting Thailand’s Logistics Competitiveness

Although the company’s current concession agreement has approximately three to four years remaining, TIPS continues to invest in both infrastructure and human resources. The company remains committed to maintaining service capabilities that meet the demands of the modern market while continuously raising its operations to international standards.

“We believe that our customers, Thailand’s export sector, and the nation’s logistics system deserve the highest level of service throughout our operating period,” said Mr. Teerapol.

He added that the investment represents more than the addition of new equipment. It also reflects TIPS’ commitment to strengthening Thailand’s logistics capabilities and supporting the country’s role in regional and global trade.

“The investment in these new RTGs marks another important milestone in strengthening our terminal operations, improving service efficiency, and supporting the long-term growth of Thailand’s logistics industry. It also aligns with our Smart Terminal and Green Port development strategy,” Mr. Teerapol stated.

“The adoption of Hybrid RTGs will significantly reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, in line with our ESG commitments and environmental sustainability goals. TIPS remains dedicated to continuously enhancing technology, safety standards, and sustainable operations to deliver greater value and confidence to our customers and stakeholders.”

As a Thai terminal operator, TIPS continues to play a role in supporting Thailand’s economy, international trade, and the development of the EEC. Through investment in modern infrastructure, advanced technologies, and world-class operational standards, the company aims to strengthen the competitiveness of Laem Chabang Port as a leading regional logistics and maritime transportation hub, while contributing to its transformation into a smart, efficient, and environmentally sustainable port of international standards.

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