The Port of Zeebrugge, Belgium, has revealed it developed a new data sharing platform to allow a fluent flow of cargo to and from the UK despite extra customs administrations which will be implemented after the Brexit deadline.
The development of the RX/SeaPort data sharing platform is an initiative of the Zeebrugge port authority and APZI, the Association of Port of Zeebrugge interests. It is a platform which offers a digital connection between all links in the logistical chain.
“RX/SeaPort guarantees a chainwide solution for cargo shipped from and to the UK quickly and efficiently. Ferry and shortsea traffic will experience new customs regulations after Brexit. If these are handled digitally and efficiently, we will avoid problems.” said Joachim Coens, Gedelegeerd bestuurder MBZ
RX/SeaPort has launched a WIZARD, focussing on the impact of Brexit on the logistical process, namely the transportation of goods to (Export) and from (Import) the UK through a Belgian port.
Each phase of the import and export flow is illustrated: booking & pre-announcement, customs declaration, guidelines and procedures for departure and arrival at the terminal.
RX/SeaPort has developed a digital system, E-Desk Ferry, which focusses particularly on ferry transportations. Through the system, export users (consigners, freight forwarders,..) notify the terminal operator of the arrival of their cargo.
This notification contains the type of document, customs office, MRN number, unit number, terminal and booking reference. This data is continuously available for the terminal operator, which creates digital transparency and prevents waiting periods at the terminals.
In the case of import, users will notify the terminal operator about the cargo’s customs status with corresponding customs document numbers (MRN). Based on this information, the cargo can be released for transport.
Shortsea traffic can make use of the existing systems E-Desk Container and E-Desk Roro.
“After months of preparation with all the stakeholders, we are very happy to present the first tools of RX/SeaPort to process the UK-cargo digitally after Brexit. This is an optimization of the logistical chain in Zeebrugge and will result in a seamless flow of traffic and cargo,” said Marc Adriansens, voorzitter APZI.