Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport is undergoing a major shift in cargo logistics, driven by the Smart Cargo Mainport Program (SCMP). At the forefront of this digitalization effort is Luuk Heling, who has spent over two decades at KLM and now leads the Business and Process Improvement department within the airline’s operational cargo division. His team is developing digital tools, managing truck planning systems, and optimizing cargo flows for industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to live animal transportation.
SCMP is a collective effort, involving airlines, forwarders, transporters, customs, handlers, and Schiphol itself. “What makes SCMP unique is the full collaboration across all stakeholders,” Heling explains. “It’s not just about digital solutions but about structuring agreements that improve efficiency. Take Digital Truck Slot Planning, for example—this system ensures that only pre-approved trucks enter, reducing congestion and streamlining operations.”
Schiphol’s air freight operations face mounting pressure due to infrastructure constraints, labor shortages, and increasing cargo volumes. The introduction of SCMP initiatives such as Secure Import and mandatory digital pre-registrations via eLink for exports are aimed at reducing bottlenecks and enhancing operational transparency. Government involvement also plays a key role in supporting these initiatives, with investments ensuring infrastructure remains efficient and secure.
A major player in this transformation is KLM Cargo, which operates as both a carrier and a handler. This dual role grants it more control over truck scheduling and cargo coordination, but it also creates tension in balancing priorities with other handlers serving multiple airlines. Despite these challenges, Heling emphasizes that the focus remains on collective success: “We’re not just working in silos—we’re integrating our planning systems into SCMP’s centralized platform.”
One of the most pressing initiatives in the short term is Digital Truck Slot Planning (DTP), which will directly impact how air cargo moves in and out of Schiphol. “Hundreds of trucks arrive daily, adding stress to an already strained network,” says Heling. “DTP will help regulate this flow by ensuring that only those with scheduled slots gain access.”
Looking ahead, the summer of 2025 marks a significant milestone as dnata relocates to a new cargo terminal in Schiphol’s southeastern sector. KLM Cargo may follow suit, creating a concentrated hub for air freight activity. This will require even greater digital integration and coordination with customs to ensure smooth cargo movement while maintaining security standards.
Schiphol faces an uphill battle in overcoming space constraints and road congestion, but SCMP provides a roadmap for a smarter, more connected cargo network. Heling remains optimistic: “Digitalization won’t solve every challenge, but it allows us to work smarter within our limitations. By leveraging technology and collaboration, we’re creating an efficient, future-proof cargo ecosystem.”
