APM Terminals has invested €47 million in the Port of Barcelona over recent months. The most recent investment was the acquisition of 29 new straddle carriers, which will help APM Terminals Barcelona improve efficiency once operational this month.
Commenting on the investments, Narcís Pavón, General Manager of APM Terminals Barcelona, said that they are part of APM Terminals’ strategy to modernize its current fleet and increase equipment capacity and productivity, as well as improving safety at the Barcelona terminal.
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The terminal also received two new Super Post Panamax cranes in April. The two new Ship-to-Shore cranes, which are already operating, facilitate operations with ships of up to 23 containers across the beam. Moreover, they can lift 100 tonnes and operate in TWIN mode (2×20’). This enables the terminal to increase efficiency.
So far in 2019, the terminal has increased its reefer capacity by 31%, by installing reefer racks that allow reefer containers to be stacked four high. The terminal now has 632 connections, which expand rotation for equipment connections as well as complementary services.
In the meantime, the electrical capacity of the terminal was also improved, leading to a reduction in CO2 emissions of 600 tonnes per annum.
What is more, APM Terminals also launched real-time container tracking and vessel schedules. Additionally, in June, APM Terminals Barcelona also received Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status for protection and security from the Spanish Tax Agency.
This certification standardises the terminal’s customs operations, closing the circuit of customs processing and security in national and European transport. The purpose of the AEO status is to apply more rigorous and effective security measures and at the same time facilitate the flow of goods in international trade
APM Terminals explained.