Article • 21.05.2025
The timetable for a safe harbor
Out with the release reference, in with the digital authorization
The German seaports of Hamburg, Bremerhaven and Wilhelmshaven are teaming up to put a stop to drug smuggling and enhance the protection of container imports in future. As part of this effort, the entire chain of authorization from the release by the ocean carrier to the handover of the container at the terminal will be digitally managed in a closed system. The process is scheduled to become mandatory for carriers, terminal operators, freight forwarders and transport companies on October 1, 2025. We have highlighted the most important topics for you here.
Important information
Register online to participate in German Ports:
https://www.germanports.com/en/registration/
Documentation and interface descriptions are available online:
https://www.germanports.com/en/documents/
Coffee Talk - informal virtual discussions about German Ports every second Thursday at 3:30 p.m. online :
Background of the previously-used release process
Until now, a PIN-based release procedure has been used, in which the shipping company provided the forwarder with a reference authorizing a driver to pick up the container at the terminal. This PIN was usually passed on by the freight forwarder to a sub-contractor, who then often used another sub-contractor, until the PIN finally reached the truck driver collecting the container. Each participant in the respective transport chain knew the release reference number for picking up a container. At the same time, the terminal was also informed of this release reference number.
The new principle of the “Digital Authorization for Pick-up”
The basis of the future release process is the “'Digital Authorization for Pick-up.” This replaces the previously-used PIN-based release reference number. The new “digital authorization” ensures that it is possible to trace who is authorized to have access to the container at any time - including in the full history - from the time the container arrives at the quayside until it is picked up by the transport company. The container can only be released with the “digital authorization” from one authorized party to the next. During the pick-up itself, a digital verification is always carried out to determine whether the respective transport company is authorized. On site, the “Digital Authorization for Pick-up” can only be exercised by drivers who are registered with the responsible transport company.
All communication processes are conducted via German Ports
The new closed digital release procedure is managed via the German Ports IT platform. German Ports is a joint project from the Port Community Systems (PCS) operated by DAKOSY in Hamburg and dbh Logistics IT in Bremen.
How freight forwarders and transport companies can participate
To use the new digital release procedure, companies first need to register on the https://www.germanports.com website. The contract documents will then be sent to you. As soon as DAKOSY or dbh logistics IT receive the signed documents, the technical connection and activation on the web platforms (German Ports, IMP, BIP) can proceed.
Optimally prepared for go-live
The platform operators recommend that freight forwarders and transport companies allow sufficient time to configure their IT systems and try out the new processes during the test phase. The basis for a successful implementation process is that companies have first harmonized their internal processes with the new release process.
Additionally, a primary contact person must be designated to coordinate the exchange of information with German Ports. Freight forwarders with their own TMS can connect their interfaces (API / EDI) to German Ports. In this case, it is important to check in advance which customizations are required in your TMS and to prepare them accordingly.
Options for technical connections
Companies can connect their own IT systems via open interfaces, use their existing digital access via the PCS platforms from DAKOSY (IMP) or dbh (BIT), or process the releases via the German Ports web platform.
