BLG Strengthens the Neustadt Port in Bremen with a New Mobile Harbor Crane

BLG LOGISTICS strengthens the Neustadt Port in Bremen with a new mobile harbor crane of the type Liebherr LHM 550. The crane significantly expands the capacities for handling project and heavy cargo and sustainably improves the performance of the site. The acquisition was made as part of BLG’s strategic investments in a capable and future-oriented port infrastructure.

(Bremen) The approximately 440-ton crane was delivered via waterway from the Liebherr production site in Rostock. After being transferred from the transport ship to a barge, the LHM 550 was driven ashore on its own axles during high tide. Subsequently, technical final assembly, functional tests, and approvals will take place. The operational regular operation of the crane is scheduled to begin about 14 days after arrival.

With a maximum load capacity of 154 tons, the LHM 550 covers a wide range of demanding handling requirements. Thanks to its large reach, modern heavy cargo ships can also be efficiently processed. The mobility of the device – with ten driven axles – allows for flexible use on various terminal areas. The possible shore power operation also supports a more environmentally friendly port logistics.

The new mobile harbor crane is intended as a permanent and long-term addition to the BLG harbor crane fleet and sustainably supports the growing demands of the project and heavy cargo business at the Bremen site. It is named “FRANK” – a tribute to the long-serving chairman Frank Dreeke, who has significantly shaped the development of BLG over many years.

Twin Operations with Significantly Higher Capacity

With the addition of the existing crane fleet, twin operations with significantly higher capacity are now possible at the Neustadt Port: While two cranes could previously operate in tandem, they were limited to 220 tons. Together, the cranes can now lift loads of up to 280 tons, covering load capacities that were previously unattainable. “With the new mobile harbor crane, we can noticeably make our processes more efficient. Especially the ability to move higher loads with our existing equipment at the same time opens up new opportunities in our daily operations, particularly in the growing area of wind energy plants, closing an open flank,” says Thorben Kolk, Managing Director of BLG Cargo Logistics.

The Neustadt Port offers ideal conditions for handling complete wind energy plants and has more than 100,000 square meters of currently utilized storage space. If necessary, these areas can be significantly expanded. As a deep-water port located far inland, the site combines generous logistics areas with direct water access. This is a decisive advantage for wind energy, infrastructure, and industrial goods that rely on efficient transport between the hinterland and international markets.

Wind Energy Generates Demand for Assembly, Packaging, and Distribution Areas

The energy transition is leading to an increasing demand for assembly, packaging, and distribution areas. With its water access, available spaces, and powerful handling infrastructure, the Neustadt Port provides optimal conditions for this. The new LHM 550 creates additional capacities, especially for larger and heavier components, and significantly increases the operational flexibility of the terminal. Moreover, the successful landing of the new crane demonstrates how flexible the site is: Even extraordinary loads well above 280 tons can be safely and successfully handled with functional solutions.

Photo: © BLG