Four Templates. One Deck. A Project Engineered from the Start.
United Heavy Lift successfully transported four Integrated Template Structures from Poland to Norway, demonstrating the importance of detailed engineering and early operational planning in complex project cargo transportation.
In February 2026, United Heavy Lift was awarded a contract by K2, acting on behalf of SLB OneSubsea, for the transportation of four Integrated Template Structures.
The cargo presented a significant heavy-lift challenge. Each ITS measured approximately 19 × 24.8 × 17.2 m with an individual weight of 355 MT. Together, the four structures represented approximately 1,420 MT of project cargo.
But the scale of the cargo was only one part of the challenge.
Making the most of the available space.
For the engineers at United Engineering Solutions, one of the defining aspects of the project was the sheer size of the structures in relation to the available deck space.
With such large structures and limited clearances onboard, there was little room for adjustment during the operation. The loading and discharge arrangements therefore had to be defined in detail before the vessel arrived at the quay.
Engineering developed the required lifting, stowage, weight-spreading and sea-fastening plans, together with the complete operational planning package.
Lifting with UHL FORCE
UHL FORCE was deployed with its 6-metre crane extensions to provide the additional height required for the lifts. The cranes have a lifting capacity of 450 metric tonnes each, with up to 900 metric tonnes in combined lifting mode.
A berth that required special consideration
The loading location at Five Whistle Quay in Gdańsk introduced another layer of complexity.
The quay is located on a corner of the Martwa Wisła River. Due to the vessel’s dimensions, the stern of UHL FORCE would extend beyond the limits of the berth and into the river channel.
The vessel also exceeded the maximum allowable vessel size for the quay, meaning that special permission for berthing was required.
Four days from berth to secured cargo
In May 2026, UHL FORCE arrived safely at Five Whistle Quay.
The four ITS structures were loaded and secured within only four days.
The sea-fastening operation was substantial, requiring approximately 600 stoppers to be installed and welded to secure the cargo for the voyage.
The loading operation was completed as planned, with no major changes required — a clear result of precise engineering and preparation.
From Gdańsk to Norway
Once the cargo was secured, UHL FORCE departed Gdańsk for Norway.
The transit took approximately 2.5 days, after which the four ITS structures were safely delivered.
The result was a project where a complex cargo configuration, challenging berth conditions and tight onboard clearances were addressed before they became operational problems.
For United Heavy Lift, project cargo expertise means more than having the lifting capacity. It means having the engineering, planning and operational experience to determine how that capacity can be used safely and effectively.
Client testimonial:
“K2 Project Forwarding has, over the past years, successfully completed several highly complex shipments in cooperation with United Heavy Lift.
UHL offers an excellent combination of versatile vessels, a highly competent engineering department, hands on operational expertise, and a solution oriented chartering and project team. This has enabled us, in close cooperation with our clients and their construction yards, to execute challenging transportation projects safely, efficiently, and cost effectively.
We would also like to take this opportunity to recognize and thank the crews onboard UHL vessels, who consistently demonstrate the highest level of professionalism. Most importantly, their commitment to safety ensures the well being of all personnel involved while delivering cargo on schedule and without damage.”
Odd Pedersen
Head Of Chartering
K2 Project Forwarding AS
