by Manal Barakat, SeaNewsEditor

The work on integrating three new storage blocks into its terminal operations started in 2024 at Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG (HHLA) Container Terminal Burchardkai (CTB).

Last week, the HHLA announced that three additional cutting-edge storage blocks have successfully gone into operation at the terminal, which is considered a vital component of the Port of Hamburg's infrastructure.

"This means that there are now a total of 22 electric storage blocks in use at CTB, making an important contribution to the sustainable development of the terminal," writes the HHLA.

This expansion has increased the block storage capacity by approximately 6,000 TEU, bringing the total capacity to nearly 45,000 TEU.

The automated storage blocks allow for denser storage, requiring less than half the space compared to conventional straddle carrier yards.

Three electrically driven portal cranes serve each of the new storage blocks, which are situated on the northern side of the current automated container yard.

The automated container store at CTB comprises storage blocks that are 42 metres wide and 375 metres long, with a capacity ranging from 1,980 to 2,130 TEU, depending on the type.

According to the HHLA, only renewable energy sources power these cranes, which is part of a broader initiative to make CTB more efficient and sustainable.

Alongside expanding automated block storage, the HHLA is implementing Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) for container handling at mega-ship berths.