Rubber Tyred Gantry (RTG) cranes are known for their mobility and versatility in container yards, logistics terminals, and industrial sites. Among the various technical factors that influence their price, steering mode plays a surprisingly important role. The steering system determines how easily the crane can move, maneuver, and align with containers or loads — directly affecting both performance and cost.
This article explores the different types of RTG crane steering modes, their technological complexity, and how each mode impacts the overall RTG crane price.
Understanding RTG Crane Steering Modes
The steering mode of an RTG crane defines how its rubber tires turn and move relative to the crane’s structure. Unlike rail-mounted cranes that move along fixed tracks, RTG cranes rely on tire steering systems for flexible movement around container yards or industrial sites.
Modern RTG cranes may feature one or several steering modes depending on design and operational requirements. The most common steering modes include:
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Straight Steering Mode (0°) – All wheels are aligned in a straight direction for forward or backward movement.
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Crab Steering Mode (±90°) – All wheels rotate in the same direction, allowing the crane to move sideways for parallel alignment.
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Diagonal Steering Mode – The crane moves diagonally, providing faster path adjustments.
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Pivot or Spot-Turn Mode – The crane rotates around its center point, useful for confined areas.
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Ackerman or Semi-Automatic Steering Mode – A more advanced system that optimizes wheel angles for smoother, more precise steering.
Each of these steering configurations requires specific hydraulic, mechanical, and control systems, which directly influence both manufacturing cost and maintenance complexity.
Basic vs. Advanced Steering Systems
Standard Two-Mode Systems
Traditional RTG cranes are usually equipped with two steering modes — straight and 90° steering. These systems are mechanically simpler and cost-effective, ideal for ports or yards with wide container lanes and well-defined traffic patterns.
However, while these systems are less expensive, they may limit maneuverability. Operators often need to make multiple forward and backward adjustments to align the crane properly, which increases operational time and energy use.
Multi-Mode Steering Systems
Modern container terminals and logistics hubs increasingly adopt multi-mode steering systems (four, six, or eight modes). These configurations allow the RTG crane to move in multiple directions with high precision.
Although multi-mode steering increases the initial gantry crane price, it significantly improves space utilization, work efficiency, and safety — especially in congested yards or indoor environments.
How Steering Mode Affects Manufacturing Cost
The design and integration of steering modes directly influence several cost components during RTG crane production:
(1) Mechanical Complexity
Each additional steering function requires independent actuators, hydraulic cylinders, and linkage mechanisms to control tire angles. The more complex the system, the higher the cost of components and assembly precision. For instance, a 4-mode RTG crane might cost 10–15% more than a standard 2-mode design due to the added parts and calibration needs.
(2) Control Systems
Advanced steering requires programmable logic controllers (PLCs), encoders, and position sensors to synchronize wheel movements accurately. Integration of electronic steering control increases both software development and electrical component costs.
(3) Hydraulic or Electric Drive Systems
Electric drive RTG cranes (E-RTGs) with multiple steering modes often use sophisticated independent motor controls for each wheel group. These systems ensure smooth direction changes but are more expensive than traditional hydraulic systems.
For example, a rubber wheeled gantry crane equipped with electric steering and eight driving wheels may cost 15–25% more than a basic diesel-hydraulic version with simple steering.
(4) Testing and Commissioning
More advanced steering systems require longer calibration, testing, and operator training, which adds to the overall delivery cost and lead time.
Operational Benefits That Justify Higher Cost
While complex steering systems increase the RTG crane’s upfront price, they often bring long-term cost savings and efficiency gains that justify the investment.
(1) Improved Yard Utilization
Cranes with multi-directional steering can operate in narrow aisles and tight spaces, maximizing container storage density. This can reduce the required land area and overall terminal construction cost.
(2) Shorter Travel Time
Multi-mode steering reduces repositioning movements, cutting travel distance and time between loading and unloading points. Over time, this enhances throughput efficiency and lowers energy consumption per container moved.
(3) Reduced Tire Wear
Advanced electronic steering systems maintain optimal wheel alignment, reducing tire friction and wear — a significant operational expense for RTG users.
(4) Enhanced Safety
Better control over crane movement minimizes collision risks with containers, vehicles, or workers, protecting both assets and personnel.
These benefits collectively increase return on investment (ROI), even if the initial price is higher.
Choosing the Right Steering System for Your Budget
When selecting an RTG crane, buyers should not only compare prices but also consider the actual working environment and yard layout.
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For open container yards with wide lanes, a 2-mode or 4-mode RTG crane is often sufficient and more economical.
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For compact or indoor operations, such as precast concrete handling or warehouse container storage, investing in a 6-mode or 8-mode system can greatly improve efficiency and safety.
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Hybrid steering systems with smart control software offer a balanced solution — moderate cost with advanced maneuverability.
Before finalizing your purchase, it’s advisable to discuss your site layout, turning radius requirements, and operation flow with your crane supplier. Manufacturers like Aicrane provide customized RTG crane solutions, offering flexible steering designs that balance cost and functionality.
Future Trends: From Manual to Intelligent Steering
The RTG crane industry is moving toward intelligent steering systems that integrate sensors, cameras, and autonomous navigation. These systems can automatically align the crane, avoid obstacles, and optimize steering angles in real time.
While this next-generation technology adds an additional cost premium, it drastically enhances safety and precision, reducing human error and downtime. As automation becomes more mainstream, the price gap between traditional and intelligent steering systems is expected to narrow, making smart RTG cranes more affordable in the coming years.
Conclusion
Steering modes are more than just a mobility feature – they are a key determinant of RTG crane price, performance, and long-term efficiency. Basic two-mode systems remain cost-effective for standard port operations, while advanced multi-mode or intelligent steering systems deliver superior maneuverability, safety, and productivity in complex environments.
Ultimately, choosing the right steering configuration depends on your operational needs, yard layout, and budget priorities. By working with a professional RTG crane manufacturer, you can find a solution that achieves the perfect balance between cost and capability – ensuring reliable performance and long-term value for your investment.