This project marks TMEIC’s first complete port automation in China. QQCT operates 11 container berths, which can accommodate sixth-generation mega-vessels of more than 18,000 TEU.

Furthermore Qingdao Port Machinery Company has placed an order for an additional 18 automatic stacking cranes for the same project. This brings the total to 38 cranes with TMEIC controls and automation at Qingdao Qianwan.

“TMEIC’s automation solution will improve efficiency and increase safety at the Qingdao terminal,” TMEIC crane systems Industry Segment Leader, Alan Peterson, said. “We appreciate the opportunity to  partner with ZPMC and Qingdao in this endeavor and look forward to showcasing our automation solutions in a port that is consistently ranked in the top ten container ports globally for volume of containers moved.”

“With TMEIC’s world-class control and automation system our customers experience increased efficiency, increased yard productivity, a reduction in equipment maintenance downtime and an improvement in safety standards,” Peterson said. “We look forward to delivering these benefits as our relationship with the Qingdao terminal continues and expands.”

Guenther also shared in his report that the container terminals, which handle the majority of cargo tonnage crossing Port Authority wharves, continue to operate at record levels with loaded container units growing 14 percent versus this time last year. “The Port Authority is expecting to surpass 2 million TEUs this year for the first time in its history,” Guenther announced.

This month, the Bayport Container Terminal recorded the highest number of gate moves ever in a single day for either of the Port Authority container terminals at 4,300 transactions. Customers still experienced excellent service levels including low truck turn times.

In its commitment to provide cost and service advantage through efficiencies to its customers, the Port Commission accepted the staff’s recommendation for tariff rates to remain the same in 2016. At the same time, Port Authority staff committed to improving efficiencies, maintaining a high level of service and continuing to fund infrastructure investments.

The Port Commission demonstrated its commitment to invest in infrastructure with the award of rehabilitation work at Wharf No. 2 and three dockside electric cranes at Barbours Cut Container Terminal.