The Port of Cape Town’s container terminal is preparing for a busy deciduous fruit season, which begins in November and runs through to the end of March.
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy recently toured the terminal to receive an update on its state of readiness for the coming export period, which is forecast to see a 3% increase in shipments of table grapes, pomegranates, stone fruits, berries, apples and pears.
According to Freight News, Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) said its heightened level of preparedness stemmed from ongoing strategic investment in new equipment, focused maintenance, process improvements and strong people management across its operations.
In the 2025/26 financial year, TPT plans to invest R4-billion across five terminals in KwaZulu-Natal, the Western Cape and the Eastern Cape. The Cape Town Container Terminal, in particular, has received 28 brand-new rubber-tyred gantry (RTG) cranes, nine of which are already operational. Another nine are in the final stages of commissioning, and the last 10 are currently being assembled.
Western Cape Terminals managing executive, Oscar Borchards, said the terminal was ready to deliver a successful season.
“We are approaching this season with confidence following recent investments in new equipment, which we look forward to using throughout the deciduous season. These newer machines are more resistant to wind, which has been a challenge for us over the years,” Borchards said, according to Freight News.
The upgraded equipment features anti-sway technology and diesel-electric hybrid engines, improving both stability and energy efficiency.
Borchards added that the Cape Town Container Terminal would deploy eight gangs, expand reefer plug points, and engage extensively with stakeholders across the value chain to co-ordinate operational plans through to March.
“These engagements have been key in aligning expectations, identifying potential risks early, and ensuring a co-ordinated approach to delivery throughout the season,” he told Freight News.
To mitigate disruptions caused by high winds, the terminal has also implemented new measures such as closely monitoring the truck booking system and cancelling appointments if wind conditions halt operations for more than four hours. A staggered approach to import and export stack dates will further improve fluidity by segregating reefers, empties and full containers.
TPT said the Cape Town Container Terminal would work closely with the Cape Town Multipurpose Terminal to manage peak periods, redirecting smaller vessels to reduce congestion.
Source: Freight News