Port of Rotterdam Authority develops new connections to Container Exchange Route

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A year after the opening of the Container Exchange Route (CER), the project is entering a new phase. The Port of Rotterdam Authority (PoR) will expand the CER next year with connections to the Distripark Maasvlakte and the ECT Delta terminal/Hutchison Port Delta II terminal via a main-gate concept. Investments will also be made in the installation of fibre optic and electrical infrastructure. Work will commence in early 2025 and will be completed in phases by the end of 2025.

The Port Authority has chosen to invest in two central connections (main gates) in 2025, which will provide many logistics service providers and the ECT terminal with relatively easy access to the CER. By connecting ECT via a main gate on Coloradoweg, both the ECT Delta terminal and Hutchison Ports Delta II terminal will be connected to the CER via public roads. Connecting the CER via a main gate at Distripark Maasvlakte will provide access to at least twelve logistics service providers, including Nippon Express, NeeleVat, AWL, LT Foods, Odin, Broekman Logistics and Thermotraffic. Realising these new connections together with terminals and distribution companies marks the next step in the successful development of the CER.

Early investment in fibre optics and electricity

Another key aspect of finalising the CER is the investment in fibre optic and electrical infrastructure. Preparatory work for this was already included in the construction of the main infrastructure. In the next phase, fibre optic cables and electricity will be installed. This is necessary to connect equipment such as speed gates and cameras in the future. Early investment in this infrastructure prevents inefficiencies and enhances the long-term integrity of the CER.

Safe, reliable, efficient and sustainable

Since the CER opened at the end of 2023, the RWG and ECT Delta container terminals, QTerminals Kramer depots, and the Customs’ State Inspection Terminal (RIT) have been using the CER. In the first year, more than 20,000 trips were made, with each trip potentially consisting of one or more containers. As the CER significantly enhances the safety, reliability, efficiency and sustainability of container transport on the Maasvlakte, the Port Authority aims to connect as many container companies as possible. Connected companies ensure a smoother handling process for containers transported via the CER.