Maersk Opens 16,000 Sq M Semarang Logistics Hub to Support Central Java Exports

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SEMARANG, Indonesia, November , A.P. Moller Maersk has opened a new bonded logistics and cargo consolidation centre in Semarang, Central Java, expanding its warehousing and inland transport network to support manufacturers and exporters seeking closer connections to international shipping routes.

The facility covers more than 16,000 square metres and is designed to bring cargo storage, customs controlled operations, container depot services and ocean transportation together in one logistics network.

The investment strengthens Maersk’s position in Central Java, where expanding footwear, garment and furniture manufacturing is increasing demand for export logistics infrastructure.

The Semarang Consolidation Centre provides 15,800 cubic metres of storage capacity and accommodates 11,300 pallet positions across a six level racking system.

Its location is central to the operation. The facility sits approximately 4 kilometres from the Port of Tanjung Emas, 10 kilometres from Semarang’s airport and just 300 metres from Maersk’s existing container depot.

This proximity allows exporters to move goods between storage facilities, container handling operations and port services without relying on multiple distant logistics locations.

For manufacturers managing several production sites or suppliers, consolidation facilities can help combine smaller cargo shipments into container loads before export.

The arrangement can also reduce unnecessary cargo movements and improve coordination between production schedules and vessel departures, although Maersk has not disclosed specific cost or transit time savings.

The facility operates under Indonesia’s Pusat Logistik Berikat (PLB) licence, allowing goods to be stored and managed within a customs controlled environment.

The bonded arrangement gives manufacturers greater flexibility in managing inventory, consolidating shipments and preparing cargo for export.

For industries such as footwear, garments and furniture, where production schedules and shipment volumes can fluctuate, access to bonded storage can help companies coordinate cargo movements without immediately transferring goods through conventional customs procedures.

The centre also connects with Maersk’s inland transportation services, allowing cargo to move between Central Java and alternative shipping gateways when operational requirements demand it.

The Semarang opening forms part of Maersk’s broader investment in Indonesia, Southeast Asia’s largest economy.

The company already operates more than 128,000 square metres of warehousing space across 15 locations in the country, supported by ocean transportation, inland distribution, customs clearance and container depot services.

Indonesia recorded approximately $1.45 trillion in gross domestic product in 2025, while exports of goods and services increased 7.03% during the year, according to figures cited by Maersk.

The country’s expanding manufacturing base is creating additional requirements for logistics facilities located closer to industrial production centres rather than concentrated solely around major international ports.

Elaine Low, Managing Director of Maersk South East Asia, said the investment reflects the company’s strategy of expanding logistics infrastructure alongside its customers.

“Indonesia is an important market for Maersk, and we see significant long-term opportunities as the country continues to develop its manufacturing and export capabilities,” Low said.

“Our investment in Semarang reflects a simple principle: we want to invest where our customers are growing.”

Central Java has become an increasingly important manufacturing location for export oriented industries, particularly footwear, textiles, garments and furniture.

The new facility provides a local consolidation point for manufacturers that previously may have needed to arrange separate warehousing, container handling and inland transport services.

Its connection to Maersk’s nearby container depot provides access to empty containers and equipment services, while inland transport links allow shipments to reach other Indonesian gateways when necessary.

Cargo can subsequently enter Maersk’s international ocean network, connecting Central Java’s manufacturing operations with overseas markets through coordinated warehousing, depot and transportation services.