Port of Rotterdam Hits 500,000 Secure Chain Containers, Strengthening Global Import Security

Port of Rotterdam Hits 500,000 Secure Chain Containers, Strengthening Global Import Security

(IN BRIEF) The Port of Rotterdam has successfully processed its 500,000th import container through the Secure Chain system, which replaces the traditional PIN code method for container collection with a secure, digital process. This system ensures that only authorized parties—shipping lines, shippers, forwarders, and carriers—can transfer container collection rights securely. Launched in early 2024, the Secure Chain is now standard for all import containers from Latin America and North America, and will soon expand to include cargo from Africa, the Middle East, India, and Pakistan. The initiative is a collaboration between the business community and authorities, including Dutch Customs and the Seaport Police.

(PRESS RELEASE) ROTTERDAM, 18-Sep-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — The Port of Rotterdam has successfully handled its 500,000th import container using the Secure Chain, a robust digital system designed to enhance security and reliability in container logistics. This milestone was achieved just over ten months after the Secure Chain was introduced, marking a major shift in how import containers are managed in Rotterdam.

Since the 1st of April 2024, all containers arriving from Latin America, followed by those from North America as of the 1st of July, have been processed using this system. The Secure Chain will be expanded to include container cargo from Africa, the Middle East, India, and Pakistan by October 1st. Eventually, all deep-sea import containers at the port will be managed through this secure process.

Secure Digital Handling

The Secure Chain eliminates the use of PIN codes, previously a vulnerability in container collection, by replacing them with a fully digital, secure system. Key stakeholders—including shipping lines, shippers, forwarders, and carriers—digitally transfer the right to collect containers in a closed and secure chain. This process is managed through Portbase, the Port Community System for Dutch ports, which ensures that only authorized hauliers, barge operators, or rail operators can access terminals.

A Collaborative Effort

The Secure Chain is the result of collaboration between the business community and key authorities, including the Port of Rotterdam Authority, the Municipality of Rotterdam, Dutch Customs, and the Seaport Police. This initiative aims to safeguard container logistics and ensure efficient, secure operations.

As part of the Secure Chain, container terminals now automatically verify the operating carrier at the gate, ensuring that only authorized drivers gain access. The initiative has garnered widespread support, with major container shipping lines and deep-sea container terminals already participating.

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SOURCE: Port of Rotterdam