China’s 1st Vacuum-Based Automated Mooring System Reduces Mooring Time To 30 Seconds

Northern China’s biggest Port, the Qingdao Port, has begun using Beijing’s first automated mooring system, which uses vacuum.

It was first employed on January 1, 2026, to handle a container ship. The unmanned operation took only 30 seconds.

On Thursday morning, a 366 m long container ship with a 16,000 TEU capacity berthed at the port’s quay equipped with the new vacuum mooring system.

Unlike traditional mooring operations, no workers were needed to secure the mooring lines as the system automatically positioned the vessel after identifying it. It also used the vacuum suction pads to attach to its hull, with the whole operation taking less than 30 seconds.

The system not only enhances operational safety but also boosts efficiency.

The 13 mooring units produce a total holding force of 2600 kilonewtons in 30 seconds, shortening the mooring duration for a single ship from half an hour to just 30 seconds, stated Liu Fangchao, Manager from the Engineering Technology Department of Qingdao Port Automated Terminal.

Qingdao Port is a busy hub and a modern port with an integrated automated port system with automated quay cranes, gantry cranes and unmanned automated guided vehicles.

The facility has also made a world record for container handling efficiency at its automated terminals for the thirteenth time.

Additionally, local customs also introduced intelligent systems to simplify the inspections for a smooth and hassle-free customs clearance process.

Source: Maritime Shipping News