Port of Antwerp has introduced a new procedure, namely Certified Pick up, in order to guarantee security and improve the operational efficiency and transparency of the container handling process.
The Belgian port said that the container release process has been made more secure and stramlined by sharing real-time information on a unique central data platform. The system will regulate the release of containers based on coded identification and authorisation information, contributing to a more secure, effective and resilient supply chain, according to the port’s statement.
In the design and operation of the application the Port of Antwerp has teamed up with its subsidiary NxtPort which as a port community platform has already developed a series of digital applications for the Antwerp port community. Based on its knowledge of the Antwerp port sector NxtPort will contribute its know-how to expanding the digital infrastructure of the port.
Certified Pick up will become obligatory for all supply chain partners involved in the container release process as of November 2020, and January 2021 at the latest. All containers leaving an Antwerp port terminal by truck, rail or barge (including transhipment containers and empty shipper-owned containers) fall under this obligation, with the legal framework being included in the Port Police Regulations. The Port of Antwerp has opted for a phased approach in order to ensure the stable expansion of the system.
“Connecting to Certified Pick up will yield advantages of efficiency for operators in the logistics chain,” claimed the port. “These include improvements in security, simplification of administrative processes and shorter transit times for containers in Port of Antwerp.”
In the next few months, Port of Antwerp will take the necessary steps to implement Certified Pick up and together with NxtPort it will organise information sessions tailored to the various partners involved in the logistics chain.
