Rotterdam Launches Hyper-Smart Container Mission

The Port of Rotterdam has announced the departure of its “hyper-smart” Container 42, which has embarked on the first leg of a two-year data-collecting mission.

With the support of multiple sensors and advanced communications equipment, the solution measures changes in conditions, including the temperature, humidity and position of the container.

In addition to this, Container 42 is equipped with solar panels to test the amount of power a container can generate during its multimodal journey by ship, train and truck.

View the Port of Rotterdam’s range of smart solutions on PTI’s Approved Industry Suppliers portal

According to a statement from the port, the project represents the digital transformation of Rotterdam as it attempts to become smarter and will be presented at the Transport Logistic 2019 (TLM) trade event in Munich, Germany.

Meet Container 42. The world’s smartest container aims to answer questions about the future of technology, sustainability and logistics efficiency. Read all there is to know about smart containers & ports in our latest white paper

— Port of Rotterdam (@PortOfRotterdam) May 22, 2019

By collecting data from around the world, the port expects Container 42 to highlight challenges faced throughout the supply chain, as well as boosting its development of a ‘digital twin’ for Rotterdam.

As part of the project, the port authority will utilize its existing Internet of Things (IoT) platform to process the data transmitted by various sensors, many of which are installed around the port area.

Rob Zuidwijk discusses smart ports as part of global supply chains in a recent Port Technology technical paper

Once tested, this solution will offer real-time visibility to users and enable Rotterdam to “further improve its provision of services”.

The port has also predicted that pursuing digitalization will enable the safer, faster and more reliable transportation of cargo.