UK: London Gateway Port Selects Navis SPARCS N4

Navis, a part of Cargotec Corporation and the global technology standard for managing the movement of cargo through terminals, today announced London Gateway Port Limited has selected Navis for its SPARCS N4 terminal operating system (TOS) as part of a new technologically advanced terminal development project.

The UK’s newest deep-sea container port, London Gateway will use SPARCS N4 to run automated processes at its gate, in the container yard and at the rail terminal with its automated container handling equipment. In addition, SPARCS N4 will manage the transfer of containers to and from the adjacent logistics park.

The project is the first joint Navis-Cargotec deployment of software with automated container handling equipment. Late last year, Cargotec announced it had signed a cooperative agreement with DP World to supply automated stacking cranes and automated straddle carriers to London Gateway. Navis and Cargotec teams are already working closely on the integrated deployment of the Navis TOS and Cargotec Automated Equipment Control System. The new system is tried and tested in other terminals within DP World, including Antwerp.

The selection of the terminal’s operating system was a key decision as it is essential that high speeds are maintained throughout the port and logistics park operations. Just 25 miles east of central London, the new port will deliver a significant increase in vessel handling productivity.

London Gateway will give global shippers unique access to a deep-sea port in the heart of the UK market and directly connected to distribution centers, reducing landside haulage costs in supply chains.

London Gateway CEO, Simon Moore said, “We will ensure London Gateway sets world class standards of productivity and customer service. Central to achieving this goal is the ability to move, track and store containers efficiently, which our partners Cargotec and Navis will help us accomplish.”

“We are pleased with London Gateway’s decision to choose us as their partner in this large and very important terminal project,” said Bill Walsh, Navis, President and CEO. “As our first joint Navis and Cargotec deployment of software with automated cargo handling equipment, we look forward to providing London Gateway with a solution and partnership that will result in a modern and efficient terminal.”

SPARCS N4 is Navis’ latest generation TOS, allowing customers the flexibility and scalability they need to run their operations at the lowest possible total cost of ownership –from a single terminal to multiple terminals across multiple geographic locations managed from one central location.

The anticipated Navis deployment at London Gateway is Q4 2013.

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Dredging Today Staff, March 15, 2012; Image: londongateway