Logistical challenge: transporting 80-ton crane girders

The delivery of crane girders from the port of Gdansk to the factory posed a significant logistical challenge. The largest of them measured up to 50 meters in length and weighed 80 tons. To ensure smooth and safe transportation, we opted for an unconventional solution – a specialized barge for oversized cargo transportation. Why?

Our task involved unloading crane girders from ships and delivering them, along with additional components such as electronic equipment, to the construction site of an offshore wind tower factory. As part of the project, we transported over 200 components from the port to the shipyard area in Gdansk. The largest girders measured 50 meters in length, 2 meters in width, 4 meters in height, and weighed an impressive 80 tons.

Due to their size and weight, as well as the direct waterway connection between the port and the shipyard, the transportation of the largest loads was carried out using specialized barges. The loading process was conducted using two ship cranes operating in tandem. This method allowed direct transfer from the vessel onto the barge, reducing handling time and eliminating unnecessary transshipments at the quay. Upon arrival at the final destination, the components were unloaded using quay cranes and a floating crane, then transported to storage yards. The remaining smaller components were transported by land.

Benefits for the customers

1. Optimization of oversized cargo transport
   Transporting via barges eliminates numerous challenges associated with moving such long and heavy loads by road – bypassing bridges, traffic signals, and road signs. This solution eliminates the need for dismantling road infrastructure, as well as obtaining permits and organizing pilotage.
2.  Reduced handling operations
   Direct unloading from the ship onto the barge significantly shortened handling time and enhanced transport safety.
3.  Efficiency and time savings
   Utilizing the shipyard quay, adjacent to the factory, enabled the delivery of a larger volume of cargo in a shorter timeframe.

As part of the project, we also provided comprehensive customs clearance services. Additionally, we coordinated the transport of all components within the shipyard – from storage yards to the factory premises, where the cranes would be installed.