A rubber tyred gantry crane (US: rubber tired gantry crane)/ RTG (crane), or sometimes transtainer, is a wheeled mobile gantry crane operated to ground or stack intermodal containers. Inbound containers are stored for future pickup by drayage trucks, and outbound are stored for future loading onto vessels. RTGs typically straddle multiple lanes, with one lane reserved for container transfers. It is used in major global container terminals, railway transfer stations and logistics hubs, and is particularly suitable for ports that need to frequently adjust yard planning. Chinese manufacturers such as Jinghe further optimize localized services and green upgrade solutions to promote the evolution of RTG towards electrification and intelligence.
RTG core structure
Gantry Frame
The main body is a "door"-shaped frame welded with high-strength steel to support the operation of the whole machine.
The height is usually 16-18 meters, and the span covers 6 rows of containers + 1 lane (such as "6+1" layout).
Hoisting System
Hoisting mechanism: motor + wire rope drum, control the lifting and lowering of the spreader (load 30-50 tons).
Spreader: telescopic container spreader (supports 20'/40'/45' cabinets), with a rotary lock device.
Gantry Travel System
Tires: trackless design, equipped with 8-16 high-load rubber tires (pressure monitoring and explosion-proof tires).
Drive: independent motor drive + hydraulic steering, which can achieve flexible movement such as right-angle turns and diagonal travel.
Trolley Travel System
The electric trolley on the beam track drives the spreader to move horizontally (accuracy ±10mm).
Power System
Diesel generator set: mainstream configuration (such as Caterpillar/Cummins engine).
Hybrid/all-electric: new model trend (lithium battery + supercapacitor energy storage).
Control System
The driver's cab integrates PLC/frequency control, supporting automatic deviation correction and anti-sway functions.
Automation system (AGV docking, box position identification) is optional.
Different Types of Rubber Tyred Gantry Cranes
Single Beam Rubber Tyred Gantry Crane
Lifting Capicity: 5-150T
Span: 5-20m
Lifting Height: 6-12m
Customization available
Double Beam Rubber Tyred Gantry Crane
Lifting Capicity: 5-500T
Span: 5-30m
Lifting Height: 6-30m
Customization available
A-Frame Rubber Tyred Gantry Crane
Lifting Capicity: 5-500T
Span: 5-30m
Lifting Height: 6-30m
Customization available
Straddle Carrier Gantry Crane
Lifting Capicity: 5-800T
Span: 5-40m
Lifting Height: 5-20m
Customization available
Applications of Rubber Tyred Gantry Cranes
Manufacturing Industries
Precast Concrete Production
Construction Industry
Steel Industry
Shipyards and Marine Industry
