Container terminals
Container terminals are evolving into integrated logistics platforms, connecting global shipping networks with road, rail, warehousing and the wider supply chain. As trade patterns shift, vessel sizes increase and pressure on terminal performance grows, ports and terminals must balance operational efficiency, commercial viability, sustainability and long-term resilience.
At Haskoning, we support port authorities, terminal operators, investors, IFIs and contractors in developing efficient, resilient and future-ready container terminals. We combine market intelligence, commercial insight, technical expertise and operational know-how to provide integrated solutions across the full lifecycle, from strategy and due diligence to planning, design, implementation, automation, sustainability and operational improvement.
Planning container terminals as integrated systems
Successful container terminals depend on far more than infrastructure alone. They sit at the intersection of global trade, shipping networks and inland logistics systems, requiring careful alignment between vessel requirements, terminal operations and hinterland connectivity.
Since designing the UK’s first purpose-built container terminal in 1967, we have supported clients in over 100 countries, from small-scale developments and major hub ports to brownfield expansions and operational optimisation programmes. Our expertise spans the full terminal ecosystem, from vessel access, berth planning and container terminal masterplanning to terminal layouts, gates, rail connections, warehousing interfaces and hinterland logistics.
By combining market intelligence, commercial insight, engineering expertise and operational understanding, we help clients respond to changing trade flows, evolving liner networks, capacity constraints and sustainability requirements. This supports informed investment decisions and future-ready terminal development.
Connecting shipping, terminals and supply chains
Modern container terminals must serve both sides of the logistics equation. On the maritime side, they need to accommodate changing vessel deployment strategies, liner service requirements, berth productivity targets, fixed berthing windows, draft requirements and increasing vessel sizes. : On the landside, they must connect effectively to rail, road, warehousing, intermodal logistics hubs and wider logistics networks.
We help clients optimise these connections by aligning terminal capacity with vessel requirements, improving coordination between shipping lines and logistics partners, strengthening hinterland connectivity and enhancing visibility across the supply chain.
By taking a system-wide approach, we help clients optimise the entire logistics chain, from vessel arrival and berth operations through to hinterland distribution and inland logistics.
Smart container terminals
As demand grows and space becomes constrained, improving efficiency within existing terminals is becoming increasingly important. Digitalisation, port automation, terminal operating systems (TOS), and data-driven decision-making help increase productivity, safer operations, improved reliability and better use of available capacity.
Our Smart Ports expertise, strengthened by the addition of Portwise, helps container terminals improve operational performance through advanced simulation, digital decision support, automation and technology integration. We support clients in developing digital strategies, optimising operational processes, integrating systems and using data-driven insights to improve productivity and support investment decisions.
Through simulation, analytics, yard optimisation studies, and operational modelling, we help clients understand the impact of future vessel calls, terminal layouts, automation strategies and logistics flows before major investment decisions are made.
Green container terminals
Container terminals play a critical role in the transition to low-carbon supply chains while continuing to meet increasing demand and performance expectations.
Our Green Ports expertise supports clients in developing sustainable terminals equipped for long-term performance by reducing emissions, improving energy efficiency and integrating alternative energy solutions such as shore power. We help clients meet ESG requirements, strengthen climate resilience and prepare for green shipping corridors and decarbonised supply chains.
By combining technical, environmental and economic expertise, we develop practical and scalable solutions that support sustainability goals while maintaining operational and commercial performance.
Growing within existing footprints
For many terminals, growth must come from within. Increasing capacity, improving efficiency and modernising operations in existing terminals is one of the defining challenges facing the container sector today.
We help clients unlock additional value from brownfield assets through container terminal expansion planning, layout optimisation, operational improvements and automation integration. This enables terminals to increase throughput, improve resilience and maximise the value of existing infrastructure while maintaining operational continuity.
Our container terminal capabilities
- Traffic forecasting and masterplanning
- Market analysis, trade forecasting, financial feasibility and operations evaluations
- Technical and commercial due diligence
- Lender’s technical advisor
- M&A and investment support
- Hinterland logistics and connectivity advisory
- Terminal layout planning and permitting
- Design of quay structures and foundations
- Terminal facilities and topside infrastructure design
- Gate, yard and rail-yard planning and civil design
- Mechanical and electrical design, including shore power / cold ironing
- Specification and selection of container handling equipment, quay crane strategy, automation technologies and quay furniture
- Dredging and reclamation planning and supervision
- Navigation channel planning and design of navigation aids
- Fast-time vessel manoeuvring simulation Static and dynamic mooring analysis
- Terminal automation solutions
- Container terminal operations simulation
- Discrete-event simulation and performance modelling
- Smart Ports planning and design
- Technology and systems integration
- Cargo operations consultancy
- Data analytics and KPI development
- Sustainability, safety and resilience
- Environmental impact assessment
- Green port and sustainability strategy
- Climate resilience and adaptation
- Alternative fuels and energy solutions
- Decarbonisation and emissions reduction support
- Green corridor readiness
- Technical, safety and security appraisal
- Independent technical assurance
- Supervision and project management
- On-site implementation support
Partner with Haskoning
We combine global experience with local delivery, strong technical expertise with commercial and operational insight, and digital innovation with practical execution.
Whether you are developing a new terminal, expanding an existing facility or improving operational performance, we help you connect shipping, terminals and supply chains for the future of container logistics.
Maritime challenges
To create future-proof maritime facilities that will continue to thrive for decades to come, you need a combined digital, sustainable, and climate resilient strategy.
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Our offerings
The drive to improve performance, energy efficiency, environmental standards and safety are ever present. Constraints over costs and timings add to the challenge. Find out how we can support with the challenges you are facing.
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Sectors we support
We are global maritime consultants specialised in the planning and design of marine facilities, ports and terminals, and shipyards.
Find out more about the sectors where we deliver our expertise:
