Vertical: Seaports
Application: Yard management, crane operations, gate systems, asset tracking, real-time data analytics
Ecosystem: Nokia, Future Tech
Private Network: LTE
Maher Terminals has successfully implemented a comprehensive private wireless 4G solution at its Port Elizabeth facility in New Jersey. The 450-acre container terminal processes approximately two million containers annually and serves as a critical gateway for cargo entering and leaving the New York metropolitan area.
The deployment leverages Nokia’s Edge platform in partnership with systems integrator Future Technologies Venture to create an integrated ecosystem of private wireless connectivity, edge computing capabilities, and industrial devices. This approach addresses the terminal’s need for secure, high-bandwidth, low-latency communications across yard management, crane control systems, and gate processing functions.
The technical architecture centers around Nokia’s Digital Automation Cloud (DAC) for private wireless connectivity, complemented by MX Industrial Edge (MXIE) for computing capabilities. The system incorporates ruggedized industrial devices designed for the maritime environment, along with Nokia’s Industrial device management platform for remote configuration and firmware updates.
Laura Markham, chief information officer at Maher Terminals, explained: “We chose the Nokia solution to enhance our wireless connectivity, security and scalability to improve our equipment’s network reliability and communications, as well as providing superior connectivity options as we deploy advanced cargo handling and identification capabilities. The private wireless aspects also helped us meet our cybersecurity objectives in securing port operations.”
The implementation includes a Network Digital Twin component that provides continuous telemetry validation, enabling real-time network performance monitoring and operational optimization based on live data feeds. This capability supports enhanced visibility across port operations and facilitates better planning through data-driven insights.
Peter Cappiello, CEO of Future Technologies Venture LLC, noted: “We are proud to partner with Nokia to deliver a turnkey solution for Maher Terminals. As a leading provider of IT solutions and services, we understand the needs and challenges of the transportation and logistics industry. We selected Nokia Edge platform and related solutions because they scale and can flexibly support a wide range of use cases and applications for our customers.”
The private wireless infrastructure enables real-time asset tracking and positioning capabilities, supporting container handling objectives while improving customer satisfaction through enhanced operational efficiency. Industrial devices connect critical equipment including straddle carriers to the network, facilitating efficient data transfer and communication across the facility.
David de Lancellotti, Vice President of Enterprise Campus Edge Sales at Nokia, emphasized: “We are excited to collaborate with Future Technologies Venture and deploy a platform that will help Maher Terminals achieve its business and sustainability goals. With our Edge platform for industries that integrates devices, edge computing, applications, and private wireless connectivity, Maher Terminals will enhance their operational efficiency and visibility across their port operations.”
The deployment represents a significant milestone in private 4G adoption within the maritime industry, demonstrating how modern wireless infrastructure can support complex operational requirements while providing the security and reliability essential for critical port operations.
