Liebherr delivers second port crane to ICO in Antwerp

The second LHM 550 will be used by ICO, International Car Operator NV, for handling containers and project cargo at the ICO terminal in Antwerp. The crane is expected to leave the factory in eight months. ICO has a successful history of lifting project cargo, previously using an LTM, and has experience with Liebherr cranes that can be rented as needed. The decisive factors for choosing this model were its greater lifting capacity and the excellent relationship with Liebherr, supported by the nearby Belgian Liebherr branch and guaranteed high-level customer service.

(Rostock/Antwerp) Innovation and partnership are celebrated at Antwerp XL. Liebherr and ICO come together for a signing ceremony to celebrate the sale of the second LHM 550 to ICO. This event underscores the strong relationship between the two companies and their joint commitment to innovations in cargo handling. ICO has been handling significant amounts of oversized project freight in Antwerp for years.

However, the existing crane is outdated both technically and in terms of capacity, as piece weights often exceed 100 tons. Notably, about 75% of the freight handled annually at the Antwerp terminal, amounting to 40,000 tons, consists of Liebherr cargo. This is a testament to modern and sustainable logistics, as Liebherr Colmar transports almost all its overseas products to the terminal by inland vessel, from where the cargo is distributed to various shipping berths.

An investment in the future

“At ICO, we are constantly looking ahead to ensure that we have the best equipment and technologies to meet the changing needs of our customers,” says Alain Guillemyn, Managing Director of ICO Terminals. “The expansion of our terminal in Antwerp with the second Liebherr LHM 550 reflects our commitment to innovation and flexibility in all types of cargo projects. Our goal is to provide efficiency and reliability in every operation, from traditional vehicle handling to complex project cargo. This investment further strengthens our position as a leading provider of sustainable, future-proof logistics solutions.”

Since its founding in 2003, ICO has been a leader in roll-on/roll-off cargo handling. At the end of 2021, the company made the strategic decision to invest in a Liebherr LHM 550 port mobile crane for its terminal in Zeebrugge. This move was driven by the need to diversify beyond the core business of vehicle handling and to meet the growing customer demand for increased RoRo shipping of project cargo delivered by inland vessel. Three years later, it is clear that this was the right path.

Increasing operational efficiency

The first Liebherr LHM 550 handled 10,000 tons in its first year, 22,000 tons in its second year, and a significant increase is expected for 2024. Today, ICO is pleased to announce the purchase of another LHM 550, this time for operation in Antwerp. The acquisition of the second LHM 550 not only increases current operational efficiency but also prepares the company for future growth by enabling faster loading and unloading processes that are essential for maintaining a competitive advantage.

In line with their commitment to sustainability, the organization focuses on reducing its carbon footprint through innovative technologies and processes. The two port mobile cranes play a crucial role in these efforts with their energy-efficient electric drive systems, which significantly reduce emissions during operation.

Paving the way to advance the industry

The signing ceremony at Antwerp XL serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey to improve port logistics. The partnership between ICO and Liebherr highlights ways in which innovative technologies and better cargo handling can help advance the industry.

Photo: © Liebherr