An offshoot of Hamburg’s main container terminal operator has launched a system to improve communication and coordination of port calls.
The system, heyport, has been developed by Hamburger Hafen und Logistik (HHLA) innovation subsidiary HHLA Next which was set up a year ago.
HHLA Next said heyport synchronises the planning details of all shipping participants in real time with a one-stop design to ensure operating decision-makers have all the information they need.
Changes can be made at short notice to berth and ship planning details contained in the platform, it added.
Better management of port arrivals can save fuel and time waiting at terminals, and the company said it has developed the system from HHLA’s experience to create value for terminals, shipping companies and ports worldwide.
HHLA chairwoman Angela Titzrath said the terminal group sees technical innovation as crucial to becoming environmentally responsible as well as operating successfully.
“Our aim is to take advantage of the potential in shaping a sustainable future for our industry — both under our own strength and by interconnecting with other operators in the logistics sector,” she said.
HHLA Next managing director Simone Lode said it invests in digital companies to develop new business models.
“We do not aim for short-term profit maximisation, but for long-term strategic partnerships,” Lode said.
HHLA Next’s portfolio includes a digital booking portal for intermodal transport called Modility, a process automation system for bulk and container handling and HHLA Sky, the developer of a globally scalable drone system.
Initial investments have been made through the Singapore-based fund Motion Ventures.
