Container terminals worldwide are increasingly adopting automation solutions to improve operational efficiency and maintain competitiveness. However, the success of automation solutions, particularly in Ship-to-Shore (STS) crane operations, varies significantly across different regions. While existing research has explored automation benefits in individual and general terms, a clear understanding of how regional contexts influence value creation and implementation success has been lacking. This research addresses this knowledge gap by examining both the operational performance improvements and stakeholder dynamics across different regional contexts.

The primary objective was to quantify the value creation of STS crane automation while understanding how regional factors affect this value creation. Through a comprehensive methodology combining a quantitative operational analysis with a stakeholder and risk analysis, this study examined three major ports: Antwerp, Kaohsiung, and Los Angeles.

The research findings reveal that automation value shows in three dimensions. Operational value was demonstrated through improved cycle times, enhanced consistency in performance, and reduced human error. Economic value showed through reduced labor costs, improved energy efficiency, and decreased maintenance requirements. Strategic value emerged through environmental sustainability benefits and competitive positioning, although realization depends heavily on regional contexts.

The stakeholder analysis identified six key groups affected by automation, each with distinct priorities and concerns. For example, terminal operators consistently seek efficiency improvements, while labor organizations prioritize job security and skills development. However, the interaction between these stakeholders varies heavily by region. Los Angeles faces substantial union resistance and complex regulatory requirements, while Kaohsiung confronts technical expertise gaps and cybersecurity concerns. Antwerp represents a middle position, where established regulatory frameworks and structured stakeholder relationships create more predictable implementation processes compared to other regions.

This research provides concrete insights into how automation value differs across regions. In North America, the primary challenge is not technical but social, with labor relations directly determining implementation success. In Asia, value creation is limited more by technical expertise gaps than by stakeholder resistance. In Europe, success requires balancing established regulatory requirements with structured stakeholder negotiations.

The findings demonstrate that while automated systems can achieve similar technical performance across regions, the path to realizing this value varies based on local conditions. Based on this research, three key recommendations emerge for successful STS crane automation implementation. Firstly, terminal operators must adapt their automation strategy to regional risk profiles. Secondly, technology providers should move away from standardized solutions and instead develop region-specific implementation strategies that address local challenges identified in this study. Thirdly, both parties should create structured stakeholder engagement programs to identify regional priorities, as this research shows stakeholder dynamics significantly impacts implementation success. Following these recommendations can reduce implementation timelines and possibly improve project success rates.

This improved understanding of regional variation in automation value creation provides a practical foundation for future terminal automation projects, while contributing to theoretical knowledge.