News • 16.06.2026
German Ports project completed
Cross-port digital release procedure
Smooth operations are the best proof that the “Secure Release Order” project via German Ports has been successfully completed. More than 1,000,000 digital releases have already been processed this year using the German Ports IT platform, which is jointly operated by DAKOSY and dbh.
Milestones in the introduction of the digital Secure Release Order
April 14, 2024: Start of the enrollment/registration phase
October 1, 2025: Amendment to the Hamburg and Bremen Port Security Act takes effect
October 1, 2025: Launch of regular operations with the phased onboarding of terminals, freight forwarders, importers, and transport companies
March 23, 2026: As the final group of added participants, truck drivers are required to participate in the process
With the digital release process, the two software service providers have established a uniform standard across the German North Sea ports of Hamburg, Bremerhaven, and Wilhelmshaven for the first time. Users include container terminals, shipping lines, and connected freight forwarders and transport companies.
In Hamburg and Bremen, the binding legal framework for the digital container release process was established by an amendment to the Port Security Act, which became effective as of October 2025.
On this basis, cross-border collaboration between policymakers, the port industry, DAKOSY, and dbh has resulted in a seamless digital process chain that goes beyond the legal requirements. It covers the entire process, from the first arrival of the container through to its pick-up at any of the German North Sea ports.
In addition to making an effective contribution to combating drug smuggling, the digital standard also enhances transparency and efficiency in container handling. Feedback from the industry confirms the operational benefits of the German Ports service: more transparent processes, greater planning reliability, and fewer follow-up inquiries thanks to improved data quality.
(Photo credit: HHLA)
