PTI has recently returned from a visit to APMT’s Maasvlakte II container terminal, one of the most technologically advanced container terminals in Europe.
On the tour, the tour guide outlines the break bulk operations which are fully manual operations, involving out-of-coach cargo which is delivered by tractor and chasses during manual handling.
The terminal also handles reefer cargo, with an emphasis on safety, by which a very strict safety regime is implemented.
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More than 300 staff are employed on site and carry out the terminal’s key functions, where employees go about their work on a three-shift basis.
APMT favours electrically-powered automated guided vehicles for the site as this was the most economically and environmentally efficient option.
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The overall design of the terminal took around a year-and-a-half – a process which involved much simulation to determine the correct course of action.
50% of the cargo which is transported in and out of the port comes from rail and 25% from trucking. There are currently four rail tracks constructed at the port, however, this is due to expand to as much as eight.
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Maasvlakte II is currently implementing an initiative with the Rotterdam Port Authority to facilitate the exchange of shipping containers between its terminals.
It is also the first zero-emissions terminal, an approach that has ensured that its carbon footprint remains low.
