Among the four major systems in automated terminals- seaside loading and discharging,horizontal transportation,yard handling,landside collection and distribution-the yard handling system presents the greatest difference across terminals.The Chinese port industry continues to innovate in yard layouts,based on the “vertical layout + end interaction” mode and the “horizontal layout + gate control” mode,introducing innovative transfer modes as well as “vertical layout + U-shaped channel” design.Through data gathering from automated terminals with varied yard configurations that have been put into operation,this study analyzes the characteristics of different yard layouts in terms of key indicators such as safety,land utilization rate,operational efficiency,automation level and energy consumption per TEU.It explores the establishment of a comprehensive evaluation system for the layout of automated terminals,providing a thorough and impartial assessment of various layout patterns to guide the construction and operation of automated terminals.The study also discusses the yard layouts for currently envisioned automated terminals.The research results have reference value for the layout planning and design of new automated terminal yards and the automation upgrading or renovation of traditional terminals.