North Sea Port joins Portbase: enhancing the digital port community in the Netherlands
From now on, data from the logistics chain in Vlissingen and Terneuzen can be consulted and reused by all Dutch seaports.
North Sea Port has announced its integration with Portbase, facilitating data reuse across all Dutch seaports. This collaboration includes the ports of Vlissingen and Terneuzen, streamlining logistics processes for customers and becoming part of the Dutch digital port community.
North Sea Port has long maintained close ties with Portbase, and this new digital strategy marks a significant step forward. By connecting the Zeeland ports of Vlissingen and Terneuzen with Portbase, logistics chain data from these ports can now be accessed and reused throughout the Netherlands via the Port Community System (PCS). This integration simplifies the reporting process for customers and accelerates the logistics chain, preparing the ports for future European regulations like the European Maritime Single Window (EMSWe).
Peter Van Parys, COO of North Sea Port, highlighted the benefits of this partnership:
“By joining Portbase’s Port Community System, North Sea Port becomes part of the digital community for all Dutch ports. This aligns with our ambition to expand our digital services. Moreover, this collaboration offers significant advantages for our customers, shipping companies, and ship agents, providing a streamlined ‘one-stop shop’ experience.”
This integration has been well-received by customers, who now have a unified platform for all Dutch ports. While the Zeeland port community already utilized Portbase’s PCS for customs declarations, the new integration extends to harbor master notifications. A successful trial for the “Vessel Notification” service demonstrated that ships can now efficiently register via Portbase before entering the port.
Iwan van der Wolf, CEO of Portbase, expressed pride in the collaboration:
“We are delighted that North Sea Port, with Vlissingen and Terneuzen, is part of our community. This partnership strengthens the Netherlands’ position as a central logistics hub for Northwest Europe. Together, we are building the smartest port communities.”
The next phase will expand to other harbor master services, making registration for agents, forwarders, and shipping companies consistent across the Netherlands. The reuse of data and integration with customs processes further enhances efficiency.
Beyond harbor master services, Portbase will also tackle other relevant projects for Vlissingen and Terneuzen. For instance, the Zeeland port community will receive updates on significant projects like the Import Control System 2 (ICS2), the new EU cargo information system aimed at optimizing customs security processes and facilitating trade flow.
The partnership agreement was officially signed on June 25, 2024.
