THE E-JOURNAL

EDITION 148 - 2025 OF PORTS AND TERMINALS

PORT TECHNOLOGY SUMMIT

NORTH AMERICA

4 - 6 FEBRUARY 2025
VIRGINIA, USA
 POWERED BY

EUROPE’S TERMINAL
TECHNOLOGY HUB
JOIN EUROPE’S LEADING EXPERTS IN
PORTS AND TERMINALS 1-2
APRIL 2025
Returning for its 9th edition, Container LAS ARENAS
Terminal Automation Conference is back in BALNEARIO RESORT
VALENCIA
Valencia, Spain from 1 - 2 April 2025. SPAIN

Join us for a dynamic two-day conference that delves

into the challenges and opportunities on the path to
faster, safer and greener operations.

Featuring compelling Keynote presentations and

insightful panel discussions, CTAC Europe is the hub
for knowledge sharing and collaboration to tackle
common industry problems.

Attendees will have ample networking opportunities to

forge lasting business relationships with over 250
attendees at the conference’s Welcome Drinks,
Evening Networking Dinner and daily networking
breaks.

Don’t miss out!

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EUROPE’S TERMINAL TECHNOLOGY HUB

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 Port Technology Summit North America

FROM THE EDITOR Margherita Bruno,

Editor

Welcome to the 148th edition of our electrified port equipment. The company’s analytics, and robust cybersecurity,
e-Journal! This time, we're diving into the AI-powered robotic charging solution optimising port operations while ensuring
highlights of the Port Technology Summit eliminates inefficiencies, improves safety, and regulatory compliance.
North America, which took place just a few helps ports meet their sustainability targets. Passify also makes a comeback,
weeks ago in Norfolk, Virginia. What an Innovations like these are key to greener and highlighting how synchromodality is
incredible turnout—it was great to be back in more efficient port operations. reshaping intermodal transport. By
Virginia for such a special event! Kalmar also makes a return to our enabling real-time, dynamic switching
Now that the PTI team is back in the office, journal, presenting SmartRead, an Optical between transport modes, synchromodality
it’s the perfect moment to reflect on the Character Recognition (OCR) system that enhances supply chain performance.
hottest topics from the conference and share integrates with its SmartPort solution to However, challenges like limited
some key takeaways from our esteemed boost container-handling efficiency. By transparency, fragmented planning, and
sponsors. using spreader-mounted cameras to identify underutilised assets continue to impact
At the Port Technology Summit 2025, containers automatically, SmartRead reduces efficiency. Passify and RailSync are actively
Dr Eva Savelsberg and Loren Mathis human error and minimises exceptions, working on solutions to tackle these
explored the similarities between aviation streamlining terminal operations with barriers and create more resilient logistics
and container terminal operations, both impressive accuracy. networks.
of which depend on precision, efficiency, Moving on, Navis by Kaleris shares Finally, we explore how TIC4.0 is driving
and adaptability. Successful transport hubs insights on how logistics is adapting to the evolution of Digital Twins in container
require seamless coordination between increasing complexity, driven by larger terminals by establishing a standardised data
people, technology, and logistics, and AI- vessels, rising cargo volumes, and evolving language, enabling seamless integration
driven, real-time decision-making is proving operational demands. Their RTG Optimization and smarter decision-making. By removing
to be a game-changer. INFORM’s solutions, solution, developed in collaboration interface complexities, TIC4.0 fosters
such as GroundStar for airports and the with leading terminals, improves RTG collaboration and streamlines operations.
Integrated Terminal Scheduler for ports, help management through advanced scheduling, The IHATEC TwinSim project at Eurogate
drive efficiency, safety, and sustainability. workload balancing, predictive analytics, and Container Terminal Hamburg is a great
Next, we’re pleased to welcome back real-time visualisation. By reducing idle time example of this in action, integrating real-time
BOXBAY, which is revolutionising container and optimising crane operations, Navis is equipment and process data to enhance
terminal operations with its high-bay storage helping terminals operate more efficiently in efficiency, forecasting, and simulation. As
system. By stacking containers vertically in an increasingly demanding industry. digitalisation accelerates, TIC4.0 is set to
individual compartments, BOXBAY massively Meanwhile, Shailendra Shukla, Executive play a key role in shaping the future of port
increases storage capacity while reducing Director of Xanatos Marine Ltd., discusses operations.
land use, carbon footprint, and operational how smart solutions are transforming port A huge thank you to everyone who
costs. The fully automated system also operations. With ongoing disruptions in joined us for the first-ever Port Technology
improves energy efficiency, minimises global trade, digitalisation and automation Summit—it’s been three days packed with
unproductive moves, and enhances safety, are more crucial than ever. Xanatos Marine insightful discussions, new connections, and
setting a new benchmark for terminal integrates AI, Digital Twins, and IoT to groundbreaking tech. We hope this edition
operations. enhance efficiency, safety, and sustainability. serves as a proper send-off for the event
On the sustainability front, Rocsys’ Paul The company’s Titan Sentinel platform before we set our sights on even bigger
Arms tackles a crucial challenge: charging provides real-time data integration, predictive things ahead!

www.porttechnology.org EDITION 148 | 3

 Port Technology Summit North America

CONTENTS
6. 37.
PORT TECHNOLOGY SUMMIT NORTH AMERICA SPONSORS ENHANCING PORT OPERATIONS AND INFORMATION MANAGEMENT
THROUGH SMART PORT SOLUTIONS
13. Shailendra Shukla, Executive Director, Xanatos Marine Ltd.
NAVIGATING COMMON WATERS: INSIGHTS AND LEARNINGS
FROM DECADES OF OPTIMISING THE CONTAINER TERMINAL AND 43.
AVIATION INDUSTRIES THE AGE OF SYNCHROMODALITY: INTEGRATED SUPPLY CHAINS
Dr. Eva Savelsberg, SVP Terminal & Distribution Center WITH PASSIFY AND RAILSYNC
Logistics, INFORM, and Loren Mathis, CSO Aviation, INFORM Marcel Lindemann, Co-Founder and Managing Director, Passify

17. 47.
BOXBAY’S REVOLUTIONARY AND DISRUPTIVE IMPACT ON HOW TIC4.0 STANDARD DATA LANGUAGE-DRIVEN DIGITAL TWIN
CONTAINER TERMINALS CREATES VALUE FOR TERMINALS IN THE LONG RUN
Peter Slootweg, Managing Director for the Americas, BOXBAY Norbert Klettner, Vice President, TIC 4.0, and Michael Nagel-
Kugler, Senior Consultant, Akquinet Port Consulting GmbH
22.
WHY THE PORT INDUSTRY NEEDS HANDS-FREE CHARGING
Paul Arms, Senior West Coast Business Development Manager,
Rocsys

27.
KALMAR SMARTREAD CUTS DOWN ON CONTAINER HANDLING
EXCEPTIONS
Jean-Philippe Joassin, Director of Process Automation, Kalmar,
and Angelica Nieto Lee, Product Manager Automation Solutions,
Kalmar

31.
SOLVING CAPACITY CONSTRAINTS WITH RTG OPTIMISATION
Johannes Leholm, Senior Solution Architect, Navis, and Kathy
Xie, Solutions Architect, Navis

[email protected] www.porttechnology.org
@PortTechnology linkd.in/porttech

4 | EDITION 148 www.porttechnology.org

 The New Hub for Efficient and
Sustainable Container Transportation

23 - 24 APRIL 2025
Dusseldorf, Germany

Intermodal Container Terminal

Conference 2025: A New Hub for
Inland Ports and Terminals.

Two days of in-depth, single-stream

content and valuable networking
opportunities.

This event is designed to address the challenges

and opportunities facing Inland Ports and
Terminals as the industry prepares for rising
volumes.
Key Topics:
Regulation
Sustainability
Emergency Technologies
Modernised Operations
Digitalisation
Resilency

intermodal.ptievents.com Hilton Dusseldorf, Dusseldorf, Germany

 Port Technology Summit North America

SPONSORS
HOST PARTNER
The Port of Virginia is proudly recognized as CPPI’s top-performing port and is located in
Site Selection’s 2022 Top State for Business Climate. The port exclusively owns and operates its
terminals and the nation’s leading chassis pool. At The Port of Virginia, customers and partners
experience the efficiency and service excellence only offered through the most modern and
technologically advanced container terminal operations on the coast. Currently underway, the port’s
$1.4 billion Gateway Investment Program is building even greater port efficiency through additional
semi-automation, expansion, and industry-leading sustainability commitments.
www.portofvirginia.com

GOLD SPONSOR AND OFFICIAL AI PARTNER

INFORM specializes in AI and optimization software to improve operational decision making.
Based in Aachen, Germany, the company has been in the optimization business for 50 years and
serves a wide span of logistics industries including ports, maritime, and intermodal terminals. With
a broad range of standalone and add-on software modules, INFORM’s unique blend of algorithmic
based software expertise, rich industry experience, and big world thinking delivers huge value for
their customers. For over 25 years INFORM’s industry proven optimization algorithms have been
delivering real world results at the world’s most complex ports and terminals improving everything
from yard stacks, vehicle utilization, crane productivity, through to rail processes.
www.infrm.co/terminal

GOLD SPONSORS
Lynxis was born to deliver exponential operational and financial improvements for customers in
the landside supply chain. Their aim is to transform terminal operations from the ground up. They
are an independent and financially-sound operating company following a ‘build & buy’ strategy to
construct a platform of powerful innovations. The teams at Lynxis think like operators, but act like
tech experts balancing their drive to do things differently.
www.lynxis.com

Nokia create technology that helps the world act together. As a B2B technology innovation leader,
they are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging their work across mobile,
fixed and cloud networks. In addition, they create value with intellectual property and long-term
research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs. Service providers, enterprises and partners
worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable, and sustainable networks today – and work with
them to create the digital services and applications of the future.
www.dac.nokia.com/industry/port-terminal-operations

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 Port Technology Summit North America

SILVER SPONSORS
Bentley is the leading software provider for the infrastructure sector. Our platform enables
engineering firms and owners/operators to manage their assets through infrastructure delivery
and ongoing infrastructure performance. We empower the unsung heroes of infrastructure
working to improve quality of life around the world. The infrastructure digital twin is the core
of our offering. By integrating a wide range of inputs into a digital simulation, Bentley provides
unmatched understanding into an asset’s performance, allowing engineers to work in context, at
scale, and in real time. This enables clear design, efficient construction, and reliable monitoring and
maintenance.
www.bentley.com

BOXBAY is an international joint venture formed by global trade enabler DP World and industrial
engineering specialists SMS group and is offering a disruptive technology that significantly
improves operations at container terminals. The BOXBAY High Bay Storage (HBS) systems achieve
a three-fold increase of the transshipment capacity of container terminals and use only one third
of the footprint of conventional storage systems for an equivalent number of containers. Instead of
stacking containers directly on top of each other BOXBAY places each container in an individual
rack, making each one directly accessible.
www.boxbay.com

Kalmar is recognized as the global leader in sustainable cargo and material handling for ports,
terminals, distribution centers, and heavy industry. The company boasts an extensive electric
portfolio and a worldwide service network, which enables them to assist their customers in
transitioning towards safer, more eco-efficient, and productive operations. Collaboratively, Kalmar
and its customers work towards developing innovative solutions that have the potential to shape
the future of the industry, ultimately enhancing the efficiency of their customers’ operations.
www.kalmarglobal.com

Rocsys is recognized as a frontrunner in the field of autonomous charging solutions for electric
transportation. Employing a pioneering methodology that integrates soft robotics, AI-driven
computer vision, and data-centric services, Rocsys is dedicated to delivering a dependable,
smooth, productive, and economical charging encounter for both fleets and consumers. By actively
participating in industry consortiums and establishing strategic alliances with multinational
corporations and OEMs, Rocsys establishes itself as the benchmark for the forthcoming era of
autonomous charging.
www.rocsys.com

SSH Communications Security is a defensive cybersecurity company with the mission to secure
critical data and communications between systems, automated applications, and people. Their
products are developed to defend your business secrets and the access to them – now and in
the future. The company started in 1995 when founder Tatu Ylönen developed the original SSH
protocol; a revolutionary concept that had an immeasurable impact on the adoption of electronic
transactions over the internet. SSH’s portfolio is focused on data protection, such as PrivX OT – a
solution for Access Control between users or applications and industrial automation devices.
www.ssh.com

TMEIC has a long, proud history in the crane industry, supplying equipment and systems
throughout the world. Their control systems are designed to meet the most demanding applications
and environmental conditions, including the latest in automation for both manned and unmanned
operation to maximize crane productivity. At TMEIC, they drive industry.
www.tmeic.com

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 Port Technology Summit North America

SPONSORS Continued
BRONZE SPONSOR
An applied AI company pioneering Digital Transformation for the Maritime, Logistics, and Supply
Chain industries. ATAI’s innovative business models are targeted toward optimizing productivity
and identifying opportunities for sustainability and cost efficiency. ATAI streamlines existing
processes with true problem-solving applied AI solutions end-to-end. Powered by AI algorithms,
sensors (Camera, Location sensors, Wireless mesh networks (LoRa, 5G, etc.), Lidar and Radar), and
other cutting-edge technologies, ATAI has addressed a multitude of operational challenges across
different market sectors.
www.atai.ai

Camco Technologies is a pioneer and market leader in container terminal automation. The Camco
Technologies image recognition and location tracking solutions register all moves during the
container hand-over processes at the gate, in the yard, under cranes and during rail operations. The
captured data allows optimization of the terminal processes, while the Camco software solutions
empower the terminal reaching their digitalization objectives. Their solutions contribute significantly
to efficient operations, customer satisfaction and profitability. All hardware and software are being
developed at their headquarters in Belgium. Camco Technologies solutions have been implemented
in 250+ terminals across the globe. With a global network of subsidiaries and partnerships, their
clients are always within reach.
www.camco.be

DSP began as a visionary support system for Contship Line’s top management, focusing on
decision-making, IT strategies, and innovation in 1986. They revolutionized the industry by
developing a Shipping Information System that connected branch offices worldwide with the
central office in Ipswich (UK) in real-time via a virtual private network—a ground-breaking
innovation for its time. With over 40 years of experience, their dedicated team of over 40
professionals brings global expertise and a passion for innovation, you won’t be able to find it
elsewhere’.
www.dsp.team/news-projects

Insight Softmax Consulting (ISC) specializes in transforming complex data challenges into
practical business solutions. Since 2016, our team of 50 professionals has served over 40
enterprises with data science, AI/ML, and high-performance computing applications. Recently,
ISC helped design and administer California’s groundbreaking $27M Ports Data Interoperability
Grant Program, establishing technical frameworks, guiding investment in data systems, and
fostering cooperation between major ports. We help maritime organizations navigate the technical
landscape through data-centric solutions, from AI applications to data warehousing and strategic
roadmapping. Our expertise spans data analytics, infrastructure optimization, and program
management for lasting operational impact.
www.insightsoftmax.com

INTECH are a global self-led technology conglomerate, passionate for excellence and innovation,
making difference to the businesses since 2003. They are a trusted and committed growth partner
for their customers with profound listening to their needs. They are the partner of choice for many
of the world’s leading enterprises predominantly in the Port, Terminal & Logistics space with
their extensive domain expertise and technological excellence. They provide a range of services
that are tailored to each customer’s individual needs, helping them ‘Being AI Ready’ with other
modern edge technology solutions. INTECH has been key partner for its customers in developing
cutting edge technology solutions for port and terminals, viz. Smart Terminal Operating System,
Smart Container Freight Station, General Cargo Management, Smart Stowage Planning, Terminal
Automation System, Port Operations and Revenue Tracking System, Sea Port Logistics Software for
Maritime, etc.
www.theintechgroup.com

8 | EDITION 148 www.porttechnology.org

 Port Technology Summit North America

Moffatt & Nichol is a highly specialized maritime advisory, planning and engineering company.
Moffatt & Nichol has defined the evolution of modern marine terminals, being the first to
revolutionize port planning and design with a focus on efficient goods movement, containerization
and automation. Today, they are committed to providing our port and terminal clients with
innovative solutions to the complex challenges associated with achieving net zero. They have been
at the forefront of this global imperative for decades, providing clients with strategies for achieving
shoreside power, equipment electrification, eco-friendly terminal transport, regulatory emissions
compliance and the transition from conventional to partial or fully automated systems.
www.moffattnichol.com

Navis is a leading provider of cloud-based supply chain execution and visibility technology
solutions. Many of the world’s largest brands rely on Navis to provide mission-critical technology
for yard management, transportation management, maintenance and repair operations, terminal
operating systems, and ocean carrier and vessel solutions. By consolidating supply chain execution
software assets across major nodes and modes, we address the dark spots and data gaps that
cause friction and inefficiency in the global supply chain.
www.kaleris.com/solutions/terminal-operating-system

RPX believes in the power of technology and data to make the global supply chain better, more
efficient and reliable. With our team of seasoned industry experts we assist our clients in their
goal to optimize their infrastructure solutions to new levels of performance and provide real world
consulting services to develop first conceptual ideas to their full-scale implementation.
www.rpxoptimization.com/home

Siemens technology empowers customers to transform the industries that form the backbone
of economies: industry, transportation, buildings and grids. Our solutions accelerate the digital
transformation of multiple industries, to scale sustainability impact.
www.siemens.com/global/en

Passify is an app to simplify gate access without compromizing security. Our vision is to
revolutionize the security and logistics industry by providing seamless and efficient gate access
Management as a Service. The team founded the company to address the challenges faced by
the industry, such as long waiting times, manual processes, and security issues, by introducing
innovative technology solutions.
www.passifyapp.de

Xanatos Marine offers customised Maritime Domain Awareness Solutions to enhance accuracy
& efficiency of port operations. The reliable, mission-proven, TITAN platform has been selected and
successfully implemented for several major maritime projects around the world, including projects
overseen by IMO and funded by the World Bank. With over 20,000+ sensors and/or systems sold
over the past 25 years, XM aims to focus on the importance of ensuring safe and efficient port
operations, not only for the benefit of their clients, but also for the environment and the surrounding
communities.
www.xanatosmarine.com

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 Port Technology Summit North America

SPONSORS Continued
LUNCH SPONSOR
DMSLOG.AI is a pioneering French startup dedicated to transforming port terminals into smart
ports through AI-powered SaaS solutions. Specializing in the optimization, decongestion, and
decarbonization of container terminals, our technologies integrate seamlessly with existing Terminal
Operating Systems (TOS), enhancing efficiency and sustainability across global port operations
www.dmslog.ai

EVENING DINNER SPONSORS

Aristoncavi starts its activity in Brendola (Vicenza) in 1958. Today, it is one of the main European
independent manufacturer of rubber insulated low and medium voltage cables (up to 45kV). In
order to provide a better service to our clients, Aristoncavi has a commercial presence in Dubai,
Shanghai and Santiago de Chile.
www.aristoncavi.com

Paige Port Solutions: Engineering Tough, Reliable Cable Systems for U.S. Ports delivers cutting-
edge wire and cable systems engineered for the toughest port environments. Backed by decades
of expertise, we specialize in high-speed crane cables, power, and data solutions designed to
withstand extreme temperatures, UV exposure, and the wear-and-tear of constant motion. Our
commitment to durability is unmatched—each product is crafted using advanced materials that
enhance flexibility, reduce mechanical stress, and extend cable life. With no order minimums, fast
lead times, and competitive pricing, Paige Port Solutions ensures you get exactly what you need
when you need it. For U.S. ports seeking reliability and superior performance, Paige is your trusted
partner.
www.paigeports.com

NETWORKING BREAK SPONSOR

Bromma is the industry’s most experienced spreader manufacturer, known worldwide for crane
spreaders of exceptional reliability. Today Bromma manufactures more than 2000 spreaders per
year of all types. Bromma spreaders are in use in 99 out of the top 100 ports worldwide.
www.bromma.com/

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 Port Technology Summit North America

EXHIBITORS
Strategic Service Solution (SSS) is an IT service provider for medium to enterprise level
organizations throughout the U.S offering MSP, MSSP with 24/7 NOC and call center availability.
Our engineering division provides LAN/WAN wired and wireless systems along with Cybersecurity
solutions. As an integrator we provide Logical/Physical Access Control, Biometrics, Video
surveillance/analytic platforms. We are a licensed general and electrical contractor. Our
telecom solutions include Structured Cabling, Wireless Infrastructure and Fiber Optic design,
troubleshooting, and Installation. We manufacture the S-Cone, a wireless mobile router which
supports 2.4 5g, WiFi6, Wifi6E and LTE and is designed to perform in rugged environments.
www.sssinc.biz/about

Westermo designs and manufactures industrial data communications products for mission-critical
systems in physically demanding environments. Our products are used in social infrastructures,
such as rail and transport, water, energy supplies, and process industries, such as mining and
petrochemical.
www.westermo.com

XRF specialises in developing software solutions to aid decision-making for complex scenarios.
By leveraging extended reality and artificial intelligence, XRF transforms critical information
into visually engaging and easily accessible formats. Their innovative approach has earned an
international clientele, including the the Port of Valencia, and Saudi Arabia’s NEOM Line project
www.xrf.ai

LANYARD SPONSOR
Konecranes Port Solutions is a global business that delivers a complete range of container
handling equipment for both manual and automated container terminals. The business is driven
by Ecolifting, our continuing mission to reach zero tailpipe emission operations for equipment
types that are largely diesel-driven today. It’s strengthened by the path to automation, where
container terminals can move towards automation in manageable, cost-effective steps if desired.
The offering is completed by our range of heavy-duty lift trucks for diverse applications and Port
Services from basic maintenance services to advanced digital services. Port Solutions is a business
unit of Konecranes Plc, a global leader in material handling solutions that serves a broad range of
customers across multiple industries, with around 16,700 professionals in over 50 countries.
www.konecranes.com

DELEGATE BAG SPONSOR

Visy Oy (Visy) provides process automation ecosystems to manage the flow of traffic, cargo and
personnel in ports, terminals, and logistics centers. Every asset that goes in or out of a facility, whether
by road, rail, or quay, can be managed by Visy technology. Visy’s mission is to help its customers save
time and money on each transaction, therefore improving operational KPIs. With a history spanning
three decades, Visy is a pioneer in Optical Character Recognition (OCR), deep learning, and AI-based
vision technology for camera systems. Visy ecosystems manage and automate more than 6,000,000
events per day in over 30 countries to improve the quality of the supply chain.
www.visy.fi/evolving-automation-ecosystems

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 Port Technology Summit North America

NAVIGATING COMMON WATERS:

INSIGHTS AND LEARNINGS FROM
DECADES OF OPTIMISING THE
CONTAINER TERMINAL AND
AVIATION INDUSTRIES

www.porttechnology.org EDITION 148 | 13

 Port Technology Summit North America

Dr. Eva Savelsberg, SVP Terminal & Distribution

Center Logistics, INFORM, and Loren Mathis,
CSO Aviation, INFORM

At first glance, the aviation and

container terminal industries might
seem like two separate worlds—one
soaring through the skies, the other
anchored at bustling ports. Airports
move people at high speeds across
continents, while terminals guide
containers through intricate supply
chains. But when you zoom out,
both industries share the same
fundamental challenge: managing
transport hubs where precision,
efficiency, and adaptability
determine success.
At the Port Technology Summit
2025 in Norfolk, Virginia, Dr.
Eva Savelsberg (SVP, Terminal
& Distribution Center Logistics,
INFORM) and Loren Mathis (CSO
Aviation, INFORM) explored this
fascinating intersection, drawing on
decades of experience optimising
operations in both industries. their gates and goods arrive at their ever-larger container loads push
Whether it’s a gate or a berth, a destinations on time. terminals to their limits.
tarmac or a terminal yard, the key Beyond the human factor, Disruptions in flight schedules
to efficiency remains the same: technology is transforming both can ripple across entire airline
seamless coordination across sectors. Airports leverage AI-driven networks, just as delays in
multiple transport modes and baggage handling, self-service unloading a vessel can cause
stakeholders. kiosks, and real-time air traffic cascading inefficiencies across the
management, while container supply chain. That’s why real-time
DIFFERENT TERMINALS, SAME terminals adopt real-time cargo coordination and data-driven
NATURE visibility platforms, predictive decision-making are essential
maintenance, and Digital Twin for both industries. From flight
From airport terminals to container simulations to optimise planning dispatchers monitoring inbound
terminals, smooth operations rely and decision-making. aircraft to port controllers managing
on a delicate dance between vessel traffic, every second counts
people, technology, and logistics. CHALLENGES THAT SPAN LAND, when ensuring smooth logistics in
Behind every departing flight and SEA, AND SKY high-stakes environments.
every docked vessel is a team of
professionals working in perfect Whether it’s coordinating aircraft INFORM’S CROSS-INDUSTRY
coordination—whether they are air turnaround or container vessel EXPERTISE BRIDGES TWO WORLDS
traffic controllers clearing a plane unloading, both industries face
for take-off or crane operators mounting pressure to handle While air freight is focused on
carefully unloading a ship’s cargo. increasing demand while maintaining speed and high-value, time-
These industries depend on efficiency and security. Rising sensitive cargo and maritime
skilled hands and sharp minds, passenger numbers strain airport logistics prioritise volume and cost
ensuring that passengers reach infrastructure just as megaships with efficiency, the operational core of

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 Port Technology Summit North America

both industries remains the same. properly trained, and certified to Take PSA Antwerp as an
We are looking at transport hubs operate the necessary equipment example. Here, INFORM’s
where multiple transport modes before offloading baggage. Integrated Terminal Scheduler
must be coordinated to load and GroundStar’s impact extends (ITS) synchronises the entire
unload goods or people efficiently. beyond efficiency—it plays a transport chain, from quay
With this shared foundation, critical role in tracking inbound cranes to horizontal transport
INFORM has been at the forefront activity, including both people with Straddle Carriers and
of optimising these complex and equipment. It isn’t just about Automated Stacking Cranes.
transport ecosystems for over five managing numbers; operating At HHLA Container Terminal
decades. The company, based in ground equipment in such a high- Burchardkai (CTB), a similar
Aachen, Germany, celebrated its traffic environment is inherently risky. project scope is implemented,
56th anniversary in early February! GroundStar ensures that employees and enhanced by the AI-powered
Starting in 1969 with industrial assigned to specific tasks have Yard Optimiser, which leverages
logistics, it expanded into aviation the necessary qualifications and Machine Learning to further refine
in 1991, revolutionising cabin crew safety training, reducing operational operations. By analysing historical
management and ground operations. risks while keeping everything data of container entry, exit, and
By 2000, INFORM turned its expertise running smoothly. Leveraging movement patterns, the Yard
to maritime container terminals, Digital Decision-Making, AI, and Optimiser gains improved insights
helping operators streamline cargo Operations Research, GroundStar that enable smarter stacking,
handling, optimise yard operations, enables proactive adjustments in reduce unnecessary rehandling,
and improve vessel turnaround real-time, ensuring that staffing, gate optimise crane moves and travel
times—ensuring efficiency from the assignments, and resources are distances, and ultimately enhance
runway to the quay. deployed with maximum efficiency. yard space utilisation. Likewise,
INFORM identified the potential
FROM TOUCHDOWN TO TAKE- MASTERING CONTAINER TERMINAL of historical data in aviation, and
OFF: HOW GROUNDSTAR KEEPS LOGISTICS – AND HOW IT leverages Machine Learning
AIRPORTS RUNNING RESEMBLES AVIATION algorithms with GroundStar to
optimise ground operations even
On the aviation side, GroundStar Just like aviation hubs, container further. Although it may sound
helps airports, airlines, and ground terminals require intelligent, unbelievable, many airlines still
handlers plan for and manage their real-time decision-making to rely on manual or Excel-based
daily operations. Simply put, if it’s an handle increasing freight volumes scheduling, planning for an
airport process that occurs when the efficiently. INFORM helps terminal unrealistic “blue sky day” where
aircraft is on the ground, GroundStar operators orchestrate the complex everything runs perfectly.
optimises it. This could mean ballet of cranes, vehicles, and Beyond full-suite systems,
optimising gate selection to minimise storage areas—ensuring that INFORM also offers AI-powered
taxi time and fuel burn, or ensuring containers don’t just arrive, but modular optimisation solutions that
that ramp workers are in position, move seamlessly through the port. layer on top of existing Terminal

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 Port Technology Summit North America

Operating Systems (TOS). From GCT

Deltaport’s Rail Scheduler, which
aligns train loading and unloading,
to Trapac LA’s Crane Optimiser and
Control System, which enhances rail
crane operations, these solutions
bring efficiency and predictability
to the terminal landscape. The
ability to integrate these modules
means that terminals can scale
their optimisation efforts gradually,
aligning investments with strategic
priorities while realising immediate downtime—is emerging as a key intelligent decision-making, and
efficiency gains. This mirrors aviation solution in container terminals. continuous innovation.
operations, where airlines frequently These hands-free charging If you’re interested in learning how
begin with a targeted optimisation— solutions enable electric cranes, INFORM’s optimisation solutions
such as ramp or baggage handling— trucks, and handling equipment can elevate your operations, don’t
before expanding to a full suite of to recharge strategically without hesitate to reach out. Let’s keep the
integrated solutions. compromising operational flow. In world moving – together.
airports, this is a well-established
SAFETY, SUSTAINABILITY, AND idea as well, ensuring that ground
SMART INFRASTRUCTURE: DO vehicles, from baggage tugs to ABOUT THE AUTHORS
CONTAINER TERMINALS AND pushback tractors, are charged Dr. Eva Savelsberg is Senior Vice
AVIATION FACE THE SAME FUTURE? efficiently without disrupting tight President of INFORM’s Terminal
turnaround schedules. & Distribution Center Logistics
Efficiency alone is not enough— When it comes to emerging Division. Specialising in AI and
safety, sustainability, and technologies, companies in both optimisation, she enhances
technological infrastructure are the industries are actively exploring operational efficiency. With a
cornerstones of resilient and future- cloud-based and SaaS options, PhD from RWTH Aachen, she has
proof operations in both aviation and recognising their potential for authored five books and more
container terminals. As mentioned scalability and efficiency. However, than 50 papers on freight transport
above, INFORM’s GroundStar given the critical nature of aviation innovation and contributes to
ensures that only properly trained and terminal operations, it is industry publications and events.
and certified employees are understandable why many still Loren Mathis is Chief Strategy
assigned to specific tasks, mitigating depend on on-premise systems Officer of INFORM GmbH’s
operational risks while maintaining to maintain the highest standards Aviation division, leading AI-driven
seamless workflows. Safety is of safety, security, and reliability. ground operations optimisation.
equally paramount in container INFORM is also closely monitoring With 15 years in aviation, he has
terminal operations, where AI-driven this trend, considering ways to managed billion-dollar workforce
analytics assess yard layouts, traffic provide flexible, future-ready and GSE budgets and shaped
patterns, container attributes, and solutions that align with the airport operations strategies for
stacking strategies to minimise evolving needs of its customers. major airlines, driving efficiency
congestion, reduce accidents, and innovation in global airport
and prevent workforce fatigue, WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE? management.
while fostering work focus across
personnel. From airport runways to shipping ABOUT THE COMPANY
Sustainability is another shared lanes, the challenges of optimising INFORM develops software to
priority, with electrification playing transport hubs are universal. optimise business processes using
a crucial role in driving greener As automation, AI, and smart AI and advanced mathematics
operations. However, integrating logistics continue to evolve, the of operations research. Founded
electric vehicle charging into opportunities for cross-industry in 1969, the company promotes
complex, high-traffic hubs presents learning will only grow. sustainable value creation in
an additional logistical challenge. The conversation at Port various industries through
As Polly Crispin, Senior Business Technology Summit 2025 intelligent decision-making. Its
Development Manager at ROCSYS, highlighted the striking parallels solutions are tailored to specific
highlighted at Port Technology between aviation and terminal industry requirements and help
Summit 2025, opportunity logistics, proving that no matter customers worldwide to operate
charging—allowing electric where a hub is located, the key to resiliently and sustainably with
vehicles to recharge during natural success is seamless coordination, greater success.

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 Port Technology Summit North America

BOXBAY’S REVOLUTIONARY
AND DISRUPTIVE IMPACT ON
CONTAINER TERMINALS

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 Port Technology Summit North America

Peter Slootweg,
Managing Director for the Americas, BOXBAY

BOXBAY: REVOLUTIONISING
CONTAINER TERMINALS WITH
DISRUPTIVE INNOVATION

The logistics industry is evolving

at a breakneck pace. Increasing
competition, stricter regulations,
and a growing shortage of skilled
labour are pushing terminals to
their limits. However, the most
persistent bottlenecks remain:
space constraints and limited
container handling capacity.
BOXBAY is transforming these
challenges into opportunities
with its groundbreaking high-
bay storage technology which
seamlessly integrates with digital
innovation. This revolutionary
system optimises the container
supply chain, driving sustainable
growth and securing a decisive
competitive edge.

MASSIVE SPACE SAVING AND

CAPACITY INCREASE

One of the most significant

advantages of BOXBAY's
system is its ability to drastically
reduce the footprint required for
container storage. Traditional
container terminals rely on
horizontal stacking, which leads
to inefficient use of space and
limits the capacity of a terminal. which consumes time, energy, This space-saving capability
Due to space constraints, many and resources. BOXBAY's vertical is particularly beneficial for
container terminals tend to stack system allows for containers to be ports located in urban areas or
containers higher and higher. stored in individual compartments, regions with limited or costly land
While stacking heights of four effectively utilising the vertical availability. By maximising the use
containers were quite normal 30 dimension to increase storage of existing space, terminals can
years ago, nowadays a stacking capacity by up to 200 per cent. handle a much larger volume of
height of six or even higher is With the high-bay warehouse containers without the need for
common. This makes the facilities principle, containers can now be physical expansion, thus reducing
increasingly inefficient because stacked as high as 11 tiers without the environmental and financial
more and more re-stacking is losing direct access to each costs associated with land
necessary to gain direct access, individual compartment. acquisition and development.

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 Port Technology Summit North America

may even be green giving

BOXBAY a more appealing
look. Green cladding can even
improve the microclimate by its
plants capturing particulates
contained in the air.

UNPRECEDENTED REDUCTION OF
OPERATING AND MAINTENANCE
COSTS

The design, automation, and

efficiency of the BOXBAY system
result in significant cost savings in
both operational and maintenance
expenses. Key factors contributing
CHAMPIONS SUSTAINABILITY AND the BOXBAY high bay storage to these savings include:
REDUCES CARBON FOOTPRINT system (HBS) can produce 150-
300 per cent more energy than • C omplete Elimination
BOXBAY sets new benchmarks for it consumes thereby creating a of Unproductive Moves:
sustainability in port operations, negative carbon footprint. BOXBAY’s design enables direct
significantly reducing the carbon access to every container,
footprint of container terminals. This By aligning with global which means 0 per cent wasted
groundbreaking system achieves sustainability goals, BOXBAY not movement. Every move is
environmental excellence through:" only improves the environmental productive compared to up to 60
performance of container terminals per cent unproductive, wasted
• Energy Efficiency: The but also supports the broader moves in modern ASC terminals.
automated system minimises industry shift towards greener • Labour Efficiency: Automation
energy consumption through logistics solutions. reduces the reliance on manual
the use of energy-efficient BOXBAY does so much more labour, leading to lower labour
machinery and optimised than resource-saving and CO2 costs and minimising human
logistics processes. Energy is reduction. The BOXBAY engineers error.
recuperated from the lowering have also addressed land use, noise • Maintenance Reduction:
movement of the stacker and light pollution—issues that Direct access, fewer moving
cranes - a process similar to severely affect people living in cities parts, and robust machinery
the one employed in electrically or the neighbourhood of ports. decrease the frequency and
propelled vehicles, where the cost of maintenance activities.
braking energy is converted into • B OXBAY enables capacity • Energy Savings: As mentioned,
electricity. However, while the increases without the need for the energy-efficient nature of
above features are beneficial, extra land. Land reclamation, the system reduces utility costs.
the most significant energy which is very often the only way
savings are simply due to the to expand existing container These cost reductions enhance
elimination of shuffle moves terminals, can be avoided with the profitability of terminal
and storage optimisation BOXBAY—and consequently operations, allowing operators
movements, which are no also the risk of affecting the to invest in further technological
longer necessary. delicate ecosystems in seas. advancements and infrastructure
• Reduced Equipment Use: The • Being a fully automated system, improvements.
need for less container handling BOXBAY does not need any
equipment and vehicles light during its around-the-clock BOOST TERMINAL PRODUCTIVITY
compared to conventional operation. This means that sky AND SERVICE LEVELS
terminal designs leads to a glow, which is typical of ports
decrease in fuel consumption lit during the night, can be BOXBAY's system dramatically
and emissions, further significantly reduced, improving increases terminal productivity and
enhancing the sustainability of the quality of life for residents service levels by enabling faster and
terminal operations. living near the port. more efficient container handling.
• Solar Powered: For the first • BOXBAY reduces noise The vertical storage design allows
time solar panels can be put on pollution because it can be for direct access to any container
top of container storage space. completely covered by noise- without the need to move others,
With solar panels on the roof, reducing cladding, which itself significantly reducing retrieval

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 Port Technology Summit North America

times and eliminating the need for CONCLUSION ABOUT THE AUTHOR
yard planning. This efficiency even Peter Slootweg has served
translates to improved performance BOXBAY aims to revolutionise as Managing Director for the
of all the yard’s connecting container logistics by Americas at BOXBAY since early
equipment (quay cranes, trains, RTGs, simultaneously enhancing 2024, focusing on unlocking the
straddle carriers, ASCs, trucks, AGVs performance, efficiency, capacity, company's disruptive potential
etc.) because BOXBAY delivers this and sustainability in container within the North, Central, and
100 per cent efficient and predictable terminals. The disruptive South American container logistics
performance for every container technology offers a transformative sectors. Having started in logistics
moved into and out of the system. approach to container storage, at APM Terminals in The Hague
This ability to quickly and moving away from traditional in 2007, Peter has 18 years of
accurately handle containers horizontal stacking to a vertical senior leadership experience
reduces vessel turnaround times, arrangement that optimises space most recently performing in roles
a critical factor in maintaining and operational efficiency. such as CEO of a 1 million-TEU
competitive advantage in the BOXBAY is revolutionising multipurpose terminal in Southern
shipping industry. By improving container terminals by addressing Vietnam, CCO at BNCT, Asia’s
operational efficiency, BOXBAY the industry's most pressing first 3.2 million-TEU automated
helps terminals meet the increasing challenges: space optimisation, container terminal in Busan, CCO
demands of global trade. sustainability, cost efficiency, at APM Terminals in Mumbai, and
productivity, and safety. With its Global Sales at Maersk Line in
UNMATCHED YARD SAFETY AND transformative approach, BOXBAY Copenhagen.
SECURITY delivers a comprehensive solution
tailored to the dynamic needs of ABOUT THE COMPANY
Safety and security are paramount the global logistics sector. BOXBAY is an international joint
in port operations, and BOXBAY The importance of this topic lies venture formed by global trade
offers significant improvement. in its potential to transform the enabler DP World and industrial
The closed and automated nature way container terminals operate, engineering specialists SMS group.
of the system reduces the risk of making them more efficient, The company offers a disruptive
accidents associated with manual sustainable, and competitive. technology that significantly
handling and traditional stacking As global trade continues to improves operations at container
methods. With containers stored in grow, the demand for innovative terminals.
secure compartments, the potential solutions like BOXBAY will only The BOXBAY High Bay Storage
for theft and damage is minimised. increase, underscoring the (HBS) systems achieve a three-
Even if a person could get into the significance of presenting this fold increase in the transshipment
BOXBAY system, it is impossible to topic to industry stakeholders. The capacity of container terminals
open the container door. industry is ripe for this solution and use only one-third of the
Additionally, the system's design because container yards have footprint of conventional storage
enhances operational safety by not innovated very much for so systems for an equivalent
reducing the need for personnel long and BOXBAY practically number of containers. Instead of
to work in hazardous areas. This solves all the priority issues facing stacking containers directly on
focus on safety not only protects container terminals now and in top of each other BOXBAY places
workers but also reduces liability the future. each container in an individual
and insurance costs for terminal BOXBAY is the solution to stay rack, making each one directly
operators. ahead of the competition. accessible.

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