Collaboration lifts yard crane productivity at Port Houston

Kaleris has completed a multi-phase rollout of its RTG Optimization (RTG-O) solution at Port Houston, delivering measurable gains across the port’s two main container terminals.

The deployment covers the Barbours Cut and Bayport terminals, where Port Houston manages 142 rubber-tyred gantry cranes and handles up to 12,000 truck visits each day. The port sought to improve performance using its existing assets while maintaining smooth day-to-day operations.

Working closely with Port Houston and labor representatives from the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), Kaleris aligned terminal workflows with RTG-O logic and strengthened data discipline. This collaborative approach ensured seamless integration and real-time, demand-driven decision-making.

The results are clear. Yard crane productivity has improved by up to 20%. Operator and dispatcher workflows are more streamlined. Data visibility has increased, supporting smarter fleet management and faster gate throughput, even during peak traffic.

Port Houston introduced the system in phases, starting with over-the-road truck moves in a limited yard area. Early lessons helped refine filters and workflows, improving both user experience and system performance before wider deployment.

“RTG-O works hand in hand with the skilled labor of the ILA and elevates our terminal performance,” said Ryan Mariacher, Chief Port Operations Officer at Port Houston. He added that the system supports the port’s goal of remaining a low-cost, high-service gateway as container volumes continue to grow.

Kaleris CEO Kirk Knauff said the project highlights what is possible when terminal operators and technology providers work closely together. He noted that advanced optimization tools like RTG-O help terminals improve productivity, agility, and operational resilience.

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