STS Crane Collapses at Keelung Port During Crane Delivery Operation
Updated: Feb 6
30-Second Takeaway
An STS crane collapsed at Keelung Port’s Pier 20 on October 14 after a heavy-load vessel delivering a new crane collided with an existing onshore crane. The incident occurred during crane delivery operations for China Container Terminal Corporation. No injuries were reported, though several containers were damaged. Authorities have launched an investigation, highlighting risks associated with marine crane delivery, vessel maneuvering, and port-side equipment clearance.
Incident Overview
An STS (ship-to-shore) crane collapse occurred at Keelung Port, Pier 20, at approximately 2:00 p.m. local time on Monday, October 14.
According to a statement from China Container Terminal Corporation, the incident happened during the delivery of a new STS crane when the Chinese-flagged heavy-load carrier Yuzhou Qi Hang struck an existing onshore crane, causing it to collapse.
The delivery involved a newly purchased BC-207 STS crane, which was being transported to the terminal at the time of the collision.
What Is Known
Location: Keelung Port, Pier 20
Time: Approximately 2:00 p.m. (local time), October 14
Operation underway: Delivery of a new STS crane
Vessel involved: Yuzhou Qi Hang (Chinese-flagged heavy-load carrier)
Cause of collapse: Collision between the vessel and an existing onshore crane
Injuries: None reported
Damage: Five containers damaged when the crane fell onto stacked containers
Local authorities have confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine the precise circumstances of the collision.
Condition of the Affected Crane
China Container Terminal Corporation stated that the older STS crane involved in the collapse:
Belonged to the terminal operator
Was not in operation at the time of the incident
Was awaiting replacement by the newly delivered crane
The company confirmed that all damaged equipment and cargo are fully insured and that the investigation is currently being handled by insurance and certification companies.
Why This Incident Was Possible
Port crane delivery and installation operations involve complex coordination between marine and shore-side activities. Even when cranes are not in service, they remain vulnerable during:
Vessel berthing and positioning
Heavy-lift cargo offloading
Restricted clearance between ships and dockside equipment
Limited margins for error in confined port environments
Inactive cranes positioned close to berth lines can still be exposed to impact risk during vessel movements.
Industry Reminder
STS cranes are among the largest and most valuable assets in port operations. Even when idle, their size, mass, and proximity to marine traffic make them susceptible to incidents during delivery and installation phases.
This incident reinforces the importance of integrated marine and terminal safety planning during crane replacement projects.
Editorial Note
Crane Hub Global reports on crane-related incidents to support industry awareness and prevention. All information in this article is based on company statements and local authority reports available at the time of publication.
How Incidents Like This Can Be Prevented
Controlled Berthing and Mooring Procedures
Heavy-load vessels delivering cranes require precise berthing plans, tug assistance where necessary, and defined movement limits during approach and positioning.
Clearance and Exclusion Zones
Establishing minimum clearance distances between vessels and inactive port equipment reduces the risk of contact during crane delivery operations.
Temporary Relocation or Securing of Idle Cranes
Where feasible, older cranes awaiting replacement can be repositioned, secured, or partially dismantled to reduce exposure during delivery of new equipment.
Coordinated Marine–Terminal Communication
Clear command authority and communication protocols between vessel crews, port pilots, terminal operators, and crane delivery teams are essential during heavy-lift port operations.
Pre-Delivery Risk Assessments
Formal risk assessments specific to crane delivery should account for vessel size, environmental conditions, berth geometry, and proximity to existing infrastructure.
