+++ Processing for all German seaports standardized + Anticipated to become mandatory as of October 1, 2025 + Effectively counteracts drug smuggling + Register and conduct testing in advance +++

Today marks the start of the registration phase for the digital release process for containers imported into the seaports of Hamburg, Bremerhaven and Wilhelmshaven. Freight forwarders, logistics providers and transport companies can register to participate via the German Ports website https://www.germanports.com/news.

The objective of the new service is to effectively prevent drug smuggling using a more secure release procedure. The project is powered by the Port Community Platforms (PCS) of the seaports, dbh Logistics IT and DAKOSY, which developed the new digital procedure in collaboration with the port industry and operate it jointly on the German Ports platform.

Early registration recommended
The new release procedure is anticipated to become mandatory for all companies involved in import processes beginning on October 1, 2025. In light of this, DAKOSY project manager Sven Reimers recommends that companies register as soon as possible: “Freight forwarders and transport companies should allow sufficient time to complete their technical connections and to try out the new processes during the test phase, which will be starting soon.” Companies can connect their in-house IT systems via open interfaces, use their existing digital access via the PCS platforms provided by DAKOSY (IMP) or dbh (BIT), or process the releases on the German Ports web platform.

"Digital Authorization for Pick-up“ replaces PIN procedure
The new release process is based on the “Digital Authorization for Pick-up”, which replaces the previously-used PIN-based release reference. The new “digital authorization” ensures that from the time the maritime container arrives at the quayside until it is picked up by the transport company, it is possible to trace who is authorized to the disposition of the container at any time. The container can only be released from one authorized party to the next using the “digital authorization.” “An important requirement is that companies ensure that their internal processes are set up to use the new release process,” specifies Reimers.

The next online informational event covering the new release process and the “Digital Authorization for Pick-up” will take place on April 24th from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m. Registration is available online at https://www.germanports.com.