Digital Transformation of Maher Terminals with Private 4G and Edge
Maher Terminals, one of the largest marine container terminal operators in North America, has deployed Nokia’s Edge platform and Private Wireless Network at its 450-acre facility in Port Elizabeth, New Jersey. This deployment, executed in partnership with Nokia and Future Technologies Venture LLC, is designed to enhance wireless connectivity, improve operational fluidity, and strengthen cybersecurity across the terminal.
Operational Challenges Driving the Need for Advanced Connectivity at Maher Terminals
As a critical shipping hub within the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, Maher Terminals handles over 2 million containers annually. Given the scale and complexity of its operations—ranging from crane movements to gate logistics—Maher faced the need for:
- A secure and reliable wireless network across the large terminal footprint.
- Low-latency connectivity to support mission-critical systems.
- Scalable infrastructure to accommodate evolving operational requirements.
- Improved communications between equipment and personnel.
- Stronger cybersecurity for port operations.
Nokia’s Private Wireless and Edge Platform Deployed at Maher Terminals
Maher Terminals selected Nokia’s Edge platform for industries, deployed in collaboration with systems integrator Future Technologies Venture LLC. The platform includes a comprehensive stack of connectivity and compute technologies:
- Nokia DAC: Delivers private wireless connectivity with high reliability and low latency.
- MX Industrial Edge (MXIE): Provides edge computing capabilities at the terminal.
- Nokia Industrial Devices: Ruggedized endpoints that connect vehicles and personnel to the network.
- Nokia Industrial Device Management: Supports remote configuration and firmware updates.
- Network Digital Twin: Continuously validates network performance using live telemetry.
This integrated solution enables Maher Terminals to connect key assets and systems while leveraging real-time data to support daily operations.
Maher Terminals CIO Highlights Impact of Nokia’s Private 4G Deployment
Laura Markham, CIO of Maher Terminals, shared: “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”.
Nokia’s DAC platform is specifically helping Maher Terminals maintain its container handling objectives, ensuring reliable asset tracking and positioning while supporting increased customer satisfaction.
Key Technologies Powering Maher Terminals’ Smart Port Operations
Maher Terminals’ technology stack blends connectivity, compute, and intelligent operations:
- Private Wireless: Provided via Nokia DAC for secure, high-performance connectivity.
- Edge Computing: Enabled by MX Industrial Edge to process data close to operations.
- Nokia Industrial Devices: Connect key assets like straddle carriers and personnel.
- Industrial Device Management: Allows remote management and updates of all connected devices.
- Network Digital Twin: Collects live telemetry to ensure optimal performance of the wireless network.
Business and Operational Benefits from Private Wireless and Edge Computing
The deployment has brought tangible operational and strategic benefits:
- Improved wireless connectivity across the terminal.
- Enhanced network reliability and communication for equipment and workers.
- Stronger cybersecurity posture, aligning with port operation security goals.
- Scalability to support additional connectivity needs and operational expansion.
- Support for advanced cargo handling and identification capabilities.
Setting a Benchmark: Maher Terminals as a Model for Smart Port Digitization
Maher Terminals’ deployment is a real-world example of how Private Networks and Edge Computing can be successfully implemented in the transportation and logistics industry. While the press release does not elaborate on broader industry trends, this project illustrates how large container terminals are adopting secure, wireless platforms to improve operational outcomes.
Nokia’s Role in Delivering End-to-End Industrial Connectivity
Nokia provided the entire technological solution stack for this deployment:
- Private wireless connectivity via Nokia DAC.
- Edge computing via MXIE.
- Ruggedized industrial devices and device management tools.
- Network Digital Twin to monitor and validate connectivity.
Future Technologies: Systems Integration for Port Digitalization
Future Technologies Venture LLC served as the lead systems integrator. The company designed and deployed the end-to-end solution in collaboration with Nokia. Their contributions included:
- Integration of industrial devices and applications.
- Deployment of edge and wireless infrastructure.
- Ongoing customer support post-deployment.
Stakeholder Endorsements of the Nokia Edge and 4G Solution
The initiative is recognized as a joint success by all involved:
“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.
— David de Lancellotti, Vice President of Enterprise Campus Edge Sales, Nokia
“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.
— Peter Cappiello, CEO, Future Technologies Venture LLC
These endorsements emphasized:
- The solution’s impact on connectivity, scalability, and security.
- The strategic value of partnering with Nokia and Future Technologies.
- The platform’s ability to support Maher Terminals’ business and operational goals.
Future-Ready Ports: Maher Terminals’ Path to Intelligent Logistics
Maher Terminals’ adoption of private wireless and edge computing through Nokia’s platform, in partnership with Future Technologies, reflects a clear commitment to improving operational efficiency, reliability, and security in one of North America’s most active ports. With the core infrastructure now deployed, Maher Terminals is positioned to leverage real-time data and connectivity to meet growing demands in global shipping logistics.
