The Import Message Platform (IMP) is operated by DAKOSY, the Port Community System, for the Port of Hamburg. As an intelligent platform, it supports and optimizes the entire import process, from the arrival of the vessel through to the delivery of goods to the customer. With the AutoIMP module, the platform offers freight forwarders an automation function with which they can significantly speed up their Customs processes.

The digital procedure via IMP is simple: approximately ten days before the ship's arrival (or as early as possible), the forwarder sends IMP an order with the following information about the expected container: the container number, the Ocean Bill of Lading and the mode of transport by which the onward transport to the customer is to take place. In return, he receives the "advance summary declaration" (ATB number) with the position data from IMP. He then sends an "advance import Customs declaration" to German Customs via his Customs software - for example, via ZODIAK from DAKOSY - and at the same time notes that the confirmation is to take place automatically in ZODIAK. As soon as the ship has reached the port and IMP has received the discharge report from the terminal, it informs ZODIAK via a status message, which then automatically confirms the Customs declaration in ATLAS.

The digital process saves the freight forwarder an enormous amount of time. The optimal time savings happen when containers are discharged outside normal office hours or on weekends. Previously, employees either had to work late or on weekends, or could only initiate the Customs process the morning afterwards. However, this means that Customs is working at full capacity during normal office hours, so Customs clearance then takes longer. Because Customs works around the clock, applications submitted in advance can also be processed and discharged at night or on weekends. A further gain in time results if the forwarder also names the trucking company that is commissioned to collect the goods in the order. IMP then automatically informs the trucking company that the container has been discharged and they can plan in advance to collect it from the terminal.

Thomas Schröder, Deputy Managing Director of the Vereins Hamburger Spediteure e.V. (an association of Hamburg forwarders), has followed IMP since its commissioning in spring 2010 and is convinced of its efficiency: "The intelligent IMP functions are the result of the good cooperation and excellent working relationship between the Hamburg Waltershof Customs office, the port industry and DAKOSY. As a result, the port has been able to achieve a degree of digitization that is found in hardly any other European port."