UK ports and harbours operate some of the most capital-intensive equipment in any industry. Cranes, reach stackers, ship-to-shore gantries, floating docks, pontoons, pilot vessels and port tractors represent tens of millions of pounds of capital - all of which can be financed through specialist asset finance arranged by Doulton Bridging Finance.
Port Crane Finance
Cranes are the highest-value single assets in most port operations:
| Crane Type | Typical Cost | Finance Term | Finance Rate Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile harbour crane (80–100t) | £2m–£5m | 7–15 years | 6.5–9.5% |
| Ship-to-shore gantry | £8m–£25m | 10–20 years | 5.5–8.5% |
| Portal/floating crane | £1m–£8m | 7–15 years | 7–10% |
| Harbour tower crane | £500k–£2m | 7–12 years | 7–10% |
Reach Stackers and Container Handling Equipment
Container ports and ro-ro terminals use reach stackers, empty container handlers, straddle carriers, and terminal tractors. Finance: HP or finance lease, 5–10 years, rates 7–11% p.a. Manufacturers include Kalmar, Konecranes, Liebherr and Hyster.
Forklift Trucks and Harbour Equipment
Counterbalance forklifts, rough terrain forklifts and large counterbalance trucks for port use. Finance: HP, 3–7 years, rates from 7% p.a. for established port businesses. Operational lease structures also available for fleet management.
Pontoons and Floating Docks
Floating pontoons and floating dry docks are significant marine assets suited to finance lease structures. Pontoon values range from £50,000 (small marina pontoon) to £5m+ (large floating dock). Floating docks for ship repair facilities are specialist assets - DBF works with lenders experienced in floating dock finance.
Mooring Equipment and Navigation Aids
Mooring buoys, mooring bollards, pile replacement, navigation buoys, ATON (Aids to Navigation) equipment - these are essential port infrastructure elements. Finance: business loans or asset finance, depending on whether the item is moveable or fixed.
Pilot Vessel and Port Craft Finance
Port Authority pilot vessels, workboats, patrol craft and line-handling vessels are commercial marine assets financed through the same specialist lenders as commercial fishing and offshore vessels. See also our Tugboat and Port Craft Finance page.