To analyze the effect of container twist lock station layout technology on the handling operation efficiency in automated container terminal using single trolley quay cranes，three terminal simulation models with different twist lock station layout technology are established by FlexSim software.The working efficiency of terminal handling equipment，the average distance per cycle and speed of horizontal transportation equipment in different models are compared by simulation tests.Simulation results show that the handling operation efficiency of the twist lock station parallel layout process plan is increased by 1% to 13% compared to the single trolley quay crane with twist lock handling platform process plan.The handling operation efficiency of the twist lock station vertical layout process plan is increased by 12% to 14% compared to the twist lock station parallel layout process plan.The simulation results can provide theoretical support for the design of automated container terminals or the upgrading and renovation of traditional container terminals.