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PD Ports signs up a powerful IT partner

[ February 11, 2021   //   ]

PD Ports has gone into partnership with the Port of Rotterdam to deliver digitalised solutions on the River Tees.

The UK operator is developing a Port Community System Working in collaboration with the Dutch gateway as part of its plans to become a  ‘smarter port’; reducing reliance on personal interaction and paper-based transactions.

PD Ports’ chief executive Frans Calje, said: “In utilising Rotterdam’s developed PCS at Teesport, companies managing the flow of cargo between the UK and the Netherlands – for the Netherlands directly or the wider EU market – will have the convenience of using the same system for goods moving in both directions. Introduction of the Port Community System will provide a strong platform of continued growth in the future, delivering benefits to the Port, the Tees Valley region and the North of the UK. We are looking forward to continuing to develop our relationship with the Port of Rotterdam as we embark on this multi-phase project towards becoming a smarter port.”

During its research phase, the port operator held consultations with river users ahead of committing to the PCS of choice, with key partners Svitzer Marine Ltd, Graypen and ConocoPhillips all trialling the system prior to launch.

Dan Heritage, Agency Manager at Graypen, said he is keen to continue working with both PD Ports and Port of Rotterdam as the system develops, adding: “As a busy agent at the centre of port activities, it was important to me that the system not only works to streamline the operations and communications within Teesport, but also provided a hub for port activity where users from various services around the river could interact and work together, using technology to our advantage. It’s been exciting to be a part of the process and it is great to see aspects of the PCS really taking shape as certain aspects become live. I look forward to continuing to work with PD Port and the Port of Rotterdam in implementing a system which will be of real benefit to the entire port community.”

Rotterdam director René van der Plas, said: “With the UK as one of the most important trade partners in Europe and approximately 40 million tonnes of cargo heading there from Rotterdam each year, it makes sense to try and optimise the supply chains and the transportation between the two ports…By making things digital you will enhance transparency and efficiency.”

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