Port of Riga announces introduction of new cargo handling technologies.
Comprehensive cargo containerisation is a growing trend in cargo shipments across the world. Currently, sea containers are used to transport not only consumer goods, but also the most diverse piece goods — metals, timber, cars and even goods which traditionally have been transported as bulk cargo, i.e., grain, metal ores, etc. Companies operating in the Port of Riga are also following the containerisation trend by developing and improving cargo processing and handling technologies.
The company Jaunzeltiņi is one of the largest terminal operators of the port of Riga, which mainly specialises in the processing and handling of timber cargo. The company has recently introduced several innovations intended for loading timber into containers, i.e. containerisation. Timber is one of the specific types of cargo which is increasingly being exported from Riga in containers.
One of the new technologies introduced at the company is the so-called ‘loading plate’, which enables placing cargo on the especially designed ‘plate’ quickly and effectively and loading it into the container automatically. “These ‘loading plates’ for cargo containerisation are used at many sawmills across the world; while in ports, at least in Latvia, we are the first to apply it”, tells Artūrs Veispāls, Chairperson of the Board.
It is crucial that the new loading technology was not purchased from suppliers abroad, and instead was created for the company’s needs here in Latvia. “We are highly satisfied with SmartTEH Ltd.’s work, and we will definitely continue to develop this cooperation, developing other port technologies for the needs of our terminals”, highlights the representative of the port company.
To increase the effectiveness of cargo processing, the company also purchased unique Combilift equipment which ensures much quicker container handling, enabling significant optimisation of the overall containerisation process.
“Currently, we can use one piece of equipment to replace two heavy vehicles, which used to be used for the transportation, placement and loading of a container”, A.Veispāls says, highlighting that the advantage of the new equipment is enhanced manoeuvrability and the ability to place containers near the cargo, ensuring the convenient and fast containerisation process.
The port of Riga is the largest port in Latvia, with cargo turnover reaching 33.7 million tons in 2017. It is a multi-purpose port with modern and safe infrastructure, where high-quality services are provided by more than 200 private enterprises operating in the port, including 34 stevedoring companies (freight terminals).