Versatile Lifting Solution
Gantry cranes are one of the most adaptable material handling solutions in the industrial world. Known for their ability to provide overhead lifting without being tied to a building structure, gantry cranes are ideal for both indoor facilities and outdoor yards, construction zones, shipyards, and container handling. Al Waha Cranes supplies a full range of customizable gantry cranes engineered for performance, safety, and longevity in the most demanding environments.
As a regional leader in crane systems across the MENA region, Al Waha Cranes offers gantry cranes designed with precision, built using premium components, and supported with expert engineering to meet your exact lifting needs — whether for a temporary project or permanent installation.

What is a Gantry Crane?

A gantry crane is a type of overhead crane built atop a gantry structure, which moves on wheels or rails and supports a hoist for lifting heavy loads. Unlike bridge cranes that require building-supported runways, gantry cranes are self-supporting and can be used in areas where overhead crane structures are not feasible.
Key Characteristics:
- Supported by legs that move on wheels or tracks
- Hoist travels horizontally on a bridge beam
- Can be single girder or double girder depending on load capacity
- Often used outdoors or where building infrastructure is limited
Types of Gantry Cranes
Full Gantry Cranes
These cranes have two legs and run on fixed rails. Ideal for heavy-duty applications like shipbuilding, rail yards, or steel plants.
Semi-Gantry Cranes
One side runs on a rail and the other is supported by a building wall or column. Perfect for areas with partial structural support.
Portable Gantry Cranes
Lightweight and mobile, these cranes are ideal for maintenance, smaller workshops, and flexible load movement.
Adjustable Height Gantry Cranes
Feature telescoping legs for height customization — useful for multiple applications or locations with overhead obstructions.
Rubber-Tired Gantry Cranes (RTGs)
Used primarily in container handling at ports and yards. They run on rubber wheels for excellent mobility across outdoor surfaces.
Benefits of Gantry Cranes
Versatility
From heavy outdoor lifting to small indoor tasks, gantry cranes serve a wide range of industries and applications.
Cost-Effective
No need for building modifications or overhead runway systems, reducing infrastructure costs.
Mobility
Unlike fixed overhead cranes, many gantry systems can be moved, relocated, or repurposed across different sections of a site.
Customization
Gantry cranes can be fully customized in terms of height, span, lifting capacity, control systems, and power supply.
Pendant Controls
Simple wired pendant control system for precise load handling with a physical connection to the crane.
Radio Remote Controls
Wireless remote operation offers freedom of movement, better visibility, and enhanced operator safety.
Cabin Controls
Enclosed cabins available for high-capacity or complex operations requiring fine control from a vantage point.
Automated & PLC-Controlled Gantry Cranes
Smart systems integrated with programmable logic controllers (PLC), sensors, and automation software for industry 4.0 facilities.
Control Options
Power Supply Configurations
Cable Reel System
Provides safe power transmission over long travel distances. Suitable for indoor and outdoor setups.
Conductor Bar System
Efficient for high-duty cycle cranes with minimal wear. Ideal for continuous operation in factories or yards.
Battery-Powered Gantry Cranes
Used for mobile and lightweight gantry models. Offers flexibility where grid power isn’t available.
Shipbuilding & Marine
Heavy-duty gantry cranes are extensively used in shipyards for lifting large hull sections, engines, and modules.
Construction & Infrastructure
Handle precast concrete segments, steel structures, and heavy construction equipment on-site.
Logistics & Warehousing
Portable and semi-gantry cranes are used to manage inventory, load containers, and organize cargo.
Manufacturing Plants
Handle components during fabrication, assembly, or testing in automotive, aerospace, and machinery industries.
Steel Mills & Foundries
Move molten metal buckets, die-casting tools, and steel coils in high-heat environments.
Industry Applications of Gantry Cranes
Gantry vs. Overhead vs. Jib Cranes
Feature | Gantry Cranes | Overhead Cranes | Jib Cranes |
---|---|---|---|
Structure | Self-supporting | Building-dependent | Floor/wall mounted |
Mobility | High (on wheels/tracks) | Fixed | Limited |
Ideal Use | Outdoor/heavy lifting | Indoor heavy loads | Point-to-point lifts |
Cost | Moderate | Higher (due to structural needs) | Low to moderate |
Customization | High | High | Moderate |
Gantry Crane Solutions by Al Waha Cranes
Why Choose Al Waha Cranes for Gantry Systems?
- 20+ years of experience in delivering turnkey gantry crane systems across the UAE and Saudi Arabia
- In-house engineering and design team for fully customized solutions
- Integration with leading brands like Street Crane, Thern, and more
- Compliance with regional and international standards (FEM, ISO, CMAA, etc.)
- Full lifecycle support including commissioning, maintenance, and spare parts
Common Customization Options
- Span and height adjustment
- Load capacity from 500 kg to 250 tons+
- Weather protection and corrosion resistance
- Multiple hoist configurations
- Zone classification (ATEX or explosion-proof zones)
Wind load calculations and anchoring systems
Maintenance & Safety Features
- Anti-collision systems
- Overload protection sensors
- Limit switches for travel and lifting height
- Emergency stop buttons and fault indicators
- Optional wind sensors and storm brakes for outdoor cranes
Frequently Asked Questions
Al Waha Cranes designs gantry cranes with capacities ranging from 500 kg to 250+ tons, depending on your project requirements.
Yes, gantry cranes are ideal for outdoor use in shipyards, container terminals, and construction sites.
Full gantry cranes have two legs and run on rails, while semi-gantry cranes have one leg and one side supported by an existing structure.
Portable gantry cranes come with wheels or castors for mobility; larger units can also move on rail tracks.
Yes, Al Waha offers fully automated and PLC-controlled gantry cranes suitable for smart manufacturing environments.
No building structure is required; gantry cranes are self-supporting and can be installed on level floors or tracks.
Our cranes follow international standards such as FEM, ISO, and CMAA, and are tailored to meet regional safety codes.
Yes, we offer full customization including height, span, capacity, controls, and power source to suit your needs.