Quayside Operation in Container Terminals and the Concept of Productivity Enhancement

This study examines the productivity of container loading and discharging operation in container terminals using automated and semi-automated Quayside Cranes (QSCs). It analyses the automated cycle time of the operation and introduces a comprehensive definition for the productivity of Quayside (QS) operation. It is argued that a considerable saving in the cycle time of loading and discharging of containers can be achieved by the introduction of automated technologies at the QS. This will help the terminal operators to significantly reduce the turnaround time of containerships at container terminals. The study also sets up a basis for calculating the number of QSCs, transfer and stacking equipment by considering their productivity value and cycle times.