Starting October 1, 2024, container cargo from Africa, the Middle East, India, and Pakistan will be collected exclusively via the Secure Chain at the port of Rotterdam. This means the traditional PIN code system will be phased out, with major shipping lines adopting this new method to ensure the safe and reliable release of containers. Only authorized hauliers, rail operators, and barge operators will have access to the terminals under this new system.
This rollout marks the third phase of the Secure Chain implementation in Rotterdam. The system has been operational for container cargo from Latin America since April 1, and it will be extended to North America starting July 1. The transition has been smooth, and eventually, the Secure Chain will cover all shipping areas.
Major deepsea shipping lines like CMA CGM, COSCO Shipping, Evergreen, Hapag-Lloyd, HMM, Maersk, Marfret, MSC, ONE, OOCL, Yang Ming, and ZIM have adopted the Secure Chain. This unified approach ensures that all import containers can be securely and reliably collected without relying on PIN codes.
Since its inception, nearly 275,000 containers have been managed via the Secure Chain. Approximately 950 shippers and ship agents, along with 800 inland operators, have already transitioned to this secure operational approach.
Shipping lines are spearheading the effort to connect to the Secure Chain by individually reaching out to their customers. However, shippers and ship agents can also take the initiative by contacting their shipping line to ensure immediate adoption of this secure system.
The Secure Chain is a collaborative effort between the business community and authorities, aiming to enhance the resilience of port logistics processes through digital means. A critical aspect of the Secure Chain is the secure and reliable release and collection of import containers at Dutch ports. This system, facilitated by Portbase’s Port Community System, eliminates the risk-prone PIN code method by using a closed logistics chain of familiar and authorized parties.
In this closed chain, companies digitally pass on authorization to collect a container at the terminal. Only inland operators authorized through the Secure Chain can pre-notify their arrival and access the terminal. This approach significantly reduces the potential for PIN code abuse, enhancing the overall security and efficiency of the port’s operations.
