Data deliver futureproof models for smart logistics

There is still much to be gained in container logistics. For example, by linking systems and enriching data. Demurrage, detention, demanding customers: what is the most effective use of a container for your organization and for your customers?

Inland terminal CTVrede in Amsterdam and Zaandam has greatly improved efficiency through smart data integration. Two projects were set up for this purpose:

1. Automating intake and provision of information about the container. By automating the request and system integrations with shipping companies and terminals, a customer can automatically place orders in their own system. After the request, this customer can continuously see the status of the container.
2. Self-learning system (neural networks / AI or advanced stochastic decision techniques) for optimizing which container via which modality - boat or truck - should be picked up at the terminal. Sometimes it is even more efficient to leave a container for a while, even if there are (demurrage) costs involved.

Such trajectories seem simple, but require a lot of knowledge and experience. CTVrede’s customers have different ways of data registration. Linking the data itself does not require that much work, but the mutual coordination is all the more. Especially if the customer is a large and complex multinational.

Final result

Immediately after coordination, our experts were able to implement and test the proposed solutions (Does the customer’s API work as promised?). Crucial to the success was that our involved experts were able to program the integration as well as engage in substantive discussions with the customer.

Recently, we also welcomed a large, well-known sea terminal as our customer. We would be happy to tell you more about this in a personal conversation.