The container gantry crane usually adopt cabin operation, that is to say, the operators operate the crane in the cabin. The cabin can travel along the length of the main beam of the crane so that the operators can position the spreader easily and lift or lower the containers as needed. The operators should be trained and get qualified before they operate the crane, otherwise, they are not allowed to do the operations without knowing the crane control and operation well. They not only have to know how to control the crane safely, but also have to know how to inspect the crane before each use to make sure the crane is in good condition during working.

A container crane can rely on different operating systems to provide strength and power for it to lift and transport different sizes of containers. Some cranes use hydraulic lifting mechanism, and others use electric or hybrid engine to supply the power. Generally, electric gantry crane is more commonly used on various work occasions.

Rail mounted container gantry crane(RMG) is applied to stack and load/offload containers at railway transport container yard and container storage yard.