DP World Introduces BOXBAY Empty Superstack Technology To Enhance Container Handling At London Gateway

DP World is set to enhance its London Gateway logistics hub with a £170 million investment in advanced container handling technology. This initiative will introduce the BOXBAY Empty Superstack system, initially developed and tested at Jebel Ali Port in Dubai. The High Bay Storage (HBS) solution aims to revolutionise empty container storage and movement, using electric stacker cranes to manage containers up to 16 tiers high within an automated facility.

The BOXBAY system, a collaboration between DP World and Germany’s SMS group, employs fully electric stacker cranes for precise container handling. These cranes automatically retrieve and deliver containers for further transport. The modular design of the Empty Superstack system allows it to integrate seamlessly into existing port operations without altering landside or seaside interfaces.

By eliminating multiple tiers of empty containers from the automated stacking crane (ASC) yard, the system reduces rehandling needs. This improvement allows ASCs to function more efficiently, enhancing performance across the quay. The result is quicker truck turnaround times and a more productive terminal that is also environmentally sustainable.

Located at London Gateway’s new all-electric Berth 4, the BOXBAY Empty Superstack will have a capacity of up to 27,000 TEU. It promises significant improvements in safety, operational efficiency, and environmental performance. The project is expected to be completed in just over two years.

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, stated, "BOXBAY technology represents a leap forward in how ports manage container storage. It is scalable, automated and sustainable. By bringing this ingenious design to London Gateway, we are introducing advanced technology that will unlock faster throughput and contribute to higher safety standards."

Stephen Whittingham, Executive Vice President for North Europe at DP World, emphasised the significance of this investment: "This £170 million investment underscores DP World’s commitment to innovation at London Gateway. The BOXBAY Empty Superstack will boost reliability for our customers, minimise truck visit times in port, and create a safer, smarter working environment for our people."

Proven Success at Jebel Ali Port

The BOXBAY system has already demonstrated its effectiveness through extensive trials at DP World's Jebel Ali Port in Dubai. During these trials, nearly 500,000 TEU were handled using this technology. Its modular design and energy regeneration features make it one of the most advanced and sustainable container handling systems globally.

As global trade continues to evolve, introducing BOXBAY’s Empty Superstack at London Gateway highlights DP World’s ongoing commitment to intelligent logistics solutions. This move aligns with their vision to set new benchmarks for efficiency, sustainability, and safety within the global port industry.

With inputs from WAM