New heavy-lift terminal in Niehler Hafen: Cologne relies on sustainable logistics!
A new heavy goods terminal is being built in Cologne's Niehl to promote sustainable logistics and relieve pressure on the road infrastructure.

New heavy-lift terminal in Niehler Hafen: Cologne relies on sustainable logistics!
Something is happening in the Niehler harbor in Cologne! A modern heavy-lift terminal is being built on an area of around 1,500 square meters and is being developed in partnership between RheinCargo GmbH & Co. KG and the Colonia company. The plans are quite ambitious, as this terminal will not only serve to relocate large-capacity and heavy-duty transport, but will also relieve the strain on the city's road infrastructure. Marcel Beck, Head of Port Sales at RheinCargo, emphasizes that the need for such transport solutions is growing, especially with the renewal and expansion of energy networks.
A Colonia crawler crane, already installed and with a capacity of up to 130 tons, will now underline the terminal's new capabilities. This crane enables the direct transshipment of large-capacity and heavy goods (GST) from inland waterway vessels to trains or trucks. Logistics not only means mobile, but also requires future-oriented solutions - and Angelika Lörks, Head of Port Real Estate at HGK AG, sees great potential here.
Comprehensive services for heavy goods
Things get particularly interesting when you take a look at the comprehensive services offered in the new terminal and heavy-duty hall by Hegmann Transit. This company not only takes care of the shipping of heavy goods, but also the assembly, packaging and safe storage of the goods. In addition, the heavy-duty hall with an area of 15,000 m² offers a heated environment that enables the storage and handling of large unit weights of up to 160 tons. The new 2-megawatt solar systems also pay attention to ecological sustainability.
The outdoor warehouse covers an impressive 35,000 m², while the assembly hall with 2,500 m² and a crane capacity of 3 x 5 tons offers space for further work. The location has its finger on the pulse: Hegmann Transit is proud to be certified according to several standards, including DIN EN ISO 9001 and SCC/SCP, which speaks for quality and safety when handling heavy goods.
A look outside the box
But what actually happens in other places? In Bremerhaven, for example, there is a RoRo terminal that offers excellent conditions for rolling loads. The breakbulk terminal in Bremen, which specializes in project cargo and heavy goods, shows similar trends. Here, heavy loads can be assembled directly on the water, while the logistics specialists ensure high productivity and quality thanks to their specialized equipment. Heavy goods specialists are also regularly deployed in Bremen to process large or bulky goods.
Both Cologne and Bremen clearly show how important efficient logistics is for the future. The new developments in Niehler Hafen could not only be important for local entrepreneurs, but could also have far-reaching effects on the region. Cooperation opportunities within the HGK Group, especially with HGK Shipping GmbH, could further strengthen this positive development. Let's stay tuned to see how the situation around the heavy-lift terminal will develop!
For more details read the reports from Locomotive Report, Hegmann Transit and BLG Logistics.