The Port of Rotterdam Authority implements new Container Exchange Route connections
ROTTERDAM – The project is entering a new stage a year after the Container Exchange Route (CER) opened. The Port of Rotterdam Authority will be expanding the CER next year with links to the Distripark Maasvlakte (Maasvlakte Distribution Park) and the Delta terminal/Hutchison Port Delta II CER terminal using a main gate concept. An investment is also being made into a fibre optic and electrical infrastructure. The work will start at the beginning of 2025 and will be implemented in phases before the end of 2025.
The Rotterdam Port Authority has decided to invest in two central connections (main gates) in 2025, which will mean that a large number of logistics service providers and the ECT terminal will be given access to the CER in a relatively simple manner. By linking the ECT through a main gate to Coloradoweg, both the ECT Delta terminal and the Hutchison Port Delta II terminal will be connected to the CER using the public road.
By linking the CER using a main gate to the Distripark Maasvlakte, twelve logistics service providers will readily have access to the CER including Nippon Express, NeeleVat, AWL, LT Foods, Odin, Broekman Logistics and Thermotraffic. A next step is being taken in the successful development of the CER by implementing these new connections together with the creation of terminals and distribution companies.
Early investment in fibre optics and electricity
Another part of completing the CER is the investment in the fibre optic and electricity infrastructure. The preparations for this had already been included in the construction of the main infrastructure. Fibre optic cables and electricity will be installed during the coming stage. This is essential to connect equipment such as speed gates and cameras in the future. Early investment in this infrastructure will safeguard that inefficiency can be prevented and the integrity of the CER can be guaranteed in due course.
Safe, reliable, efficient and durable
The Rotterdam World Gateway (RWG) and ECT Delta container terminals, QTerminals Kramer depots, and the Dutch Customs’ Rijksinspectieterminal (RIT; State Inspection Terminal) have been using the CER since the CER opened at the end of 2023. In the first year, more than 20,000 journeys were made, with each journey conceivably consisting of one or more containers. The CER significantly adds to the safety, reliability, efficiency and durability of container transport on the Maasvlakte and the Rotterdam Port Authority is firmly committed to connect as many container companies as possible. When the CER is used for transporting those containers, connected companies can guarantee a smoother container handling process.
* Photography by www.transport-online.nl