Abstract
The paper provides a rationale for choosing the type of position sensors and the principle of positioning of a gantry crane operated within a container yard. The choice of the coordinates readout principle is necessary to establish a modern automated system for container cranes positioning control. The type of position sensors used is substantiated taking into account the design features of gantry container cranes. The reliability of the crane coordinates readout systems is evaluated. The coordinates readout system developed by us implements the code-based principle of containers position readout by inductive sensors.