HPC Hamburg Port Consulting has implemented project and integration management for the provision of interfaces for terminal-side customs clearance for the German deep-water terminal Cuxport.
Run jointly with Compacer, an IoT strategy software provider, the aim of the project is to electronically link the customer and customs clearance system to the Cuxport IT system landscape and automate complex customs clearance processes related to trade with Great Britain.
The increasing digital networking of the global supply chain places high demands on the electronic communication capabilities of everyone involved.
Cuxport, a modern multifunctional terminal with lock-free access to the North Sea and optimal hinterland connections, offers not only the effective handling of RoRo, containers, general or project cargo and automobile logistics, but also reliable and efficient handling of required freight documentation.
After the UK’s exit from the European Single Market on 1 January 2021, all freight traffic to and from the UK – amounting to a significant proportion of the freight handled at Cuxport – will be subject to customs law.
These new customs processes require specific data and knowledge. They are also labour-intensive and prone to error if carried out manually.
Cuxport has therefore commissioned HPC to digitalise and automate the customs clearance processes for import and export traffic with the UK where possible.
HPC’s IT consulting specialists analysed all information flows relevant for customs. They then developed data network models that break down data silos and connect processes between external and internal data sources.
Using edbic, compacer provided the technical data and process integration platform on which the data models were implemented.
Hans-Peter Zint, Managing Director of Cuxport, said, “In order to be able to offer the same level of quality and reliable goods clearance for our customers in the post-Brexit era, the digitalisation of customs clearance plays a crucial role.
“We are continually investing in improvements to our digital infrastructure, thereby optimising digital communication between shipowners, ships, terminals and authorities.
“Thanks to the IT business integration by HPC and compacer, we are pleased to be ‘Brexit-ready’ on schedule and be able to guarantee our customers effective cargo documentation.”
Torsten Neubert, Senior IT Consultant at HPC, commented, “Successful IT integration management requires a thorough analysis of the processes and their mapping in the existing IT landscape as well as efficient project coordination with all stakeholders.
“Within a short project period, we are pleased to have not only been able to support Cuxport with the provision of the necessary IT infrastructure for customs clearance, but also to have set the course for further automation.”
