Port Logistics Refrigerated Service (PLRS) has introduced a new Konecranes Gottwald Generation 6 Mobile Harbor Crane at Port Tampa Bay. The crane is already operational, handling cargo from the Dole Aztec, which brought fresh produce from Central America. This energy-efficient crane complements the facility's existing high-speed models and aims to enhance refrigerated and break-bulk cargo handling while boosting heavy lift capabilities.
Nate Pitmon, Vice President & Executive Managing Director of PLRS, stated, “The new Gottwald crane adds to our significant and expansive capabilities and increases our customer support within the containerized, break-bulk and heavy lift cargo markets.”
Russell Smeback, CFO and VP Business Development for PLRS, added, “With addition of the new crane and the ongoing expansion of our facility, we are positioned to rapidly grow our customer base and are open to new market opportunities.”
Paul Anderson, President & CEO of Port Tampa Bay, commented on Florida’s growing population: “As Florida’s population continues to grow, it is important to serve the state’s largest food and beverage sector...PLRS has been a terrific perishable cargo partner, and we celebrate the expansion of their capabilities with the addition of a third crane.”
Raul Alfonso, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at Port Tampa Bay said, “We are pleased to see our strategic partner...make an investment that will improve their operational efficiencies. As our trade with Latin America grows, PLRS is staying ahead of the curve.”
PLRS operates a 135,000-square-foot facility capable of managing large volumes of imported and exported goods. The focus is on fresh produce, proteins, and other perishable commodities. Regional imports come from countries such as Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, and Costa Rica. The warehouse includes temperature-controlled rooms with over 4,000 pallet positions.
The facility features customs inspection areas and dedicated fumigation services. Located at Berth 219 in Port Tampa Bay along major transportation routes like CSX railways and I-75/275/I-4 corridors enhances logistics for Florida's largest market area.