Data Fuel: Teaming up for hinterland efficiency

In consultation with you, we are working on improvements, solutions and innovations for hinterland transport. For future-proof container transport by road, water and rail. By sharing information with each other digitally, the Dutch port gets smarter.

By doing so, we are strengthening

Your logistics company

The future of your logistics company and associated business activities

The Dutch ports

The position of the Dutch ports by ensuring that they remain leading and attractive

Plans Added value Partners Participate Costs FAQ Contact

Adding value through 5 focal points

All additions to the service HCN coming from wishes have to fulfil 1 or more of the 5 focal points. These points can guarantee success within the entire chain.

Click on the icons to read what each focal point means for the program.

Why are we doing this?

Iwan van der Wolf (CEO of Portbase) and Emile Hoogsteden (former commercial director of Port of Rotterdam) discussed the plans and the motivations behind Data Fuel for hinterland transport and the added value for the entire supply chain.

Read the interview

Read the letter

Planning in 3 phases

Standard Portbase Service

Yes, we are adding a lot in the near future, but HCN already offers a central platform for digital pre-notification of your containers and visits.

Portbase achterland Please de planner klein

1. Please the Planner

Smarter and more efficient planning and reducing screens for planners at transport companies. Reduce 15+ screens to 1 screen as much as possible.

Portbase achterland Container Cockpit Klein

2. Container Cockpit

Seamless sharing of container statuses with the customer and follow-up.

Portbase achterland Container Control klein

3. Container Control

Client gets control of the container information. Start with a container file that is already growing from the sea booking.

To Be Continued…

In the coming years, we will look together at the next steps after these 3 programmes.

What additions are planned?

In three phases, we will continuously add new functionalities to the HCN service in the coming years, which meet one or more focal points.

Below you can read an overview of current and future functionalities. This list was drawn up in collaboration with industry associations, customer panels and working groups.

Please note- no rights can be derived from the list.

Explanation of signs

5 focal points

Improve User Experience

Expand the connections

Enhance by adding more info

Innovate with partners

Trust in the entire chain

Project phases

Standard Service MCA

1. Please de planner

2. Container Cockpit

3. Container Control

Availability functionality

Yes, available

Yes, but…

In planning

Under investigation

Not available

Feature	Description	Added value	Road	Barge	Rail
On-board operator option	On-board operators can book/pre-register containers on a barge visit by another operator. The operator on board remains the 'owner' of these containers and only sees his own containers on the barge of the main operator	It becomes easier to bundle loads through cooperation between operators. This does not require setting up and maintaining bilateral links. The administration and communication is provided by MCA. This feature helps to reduce congestion, minimize call sizes and set up fixed windows	N/A	Yes, available	Q4
HCN web overview focus on exception management	Handlings where action is required will be shown in the front overview	Less information on screen where no action is required	Yes, available	Yes, available	Yes, available
Status requests	Request container status info, without ETA appointment	Before ordering transport, already get necessary information and status on containers, less roaming on (terminal and carrier) internet sites required	Yes, available	Yes, available	Yes, available
Combining containers per TAR/slot	Grouping of handlings per TAR	Clear overview by grouping (TAR) truck visits	Yes, available	N/A	N/A
Excel upload pre-notifications	Bulk upload multiple containers and pre-notify directly	Time saver by uploading multiple handlings in one go, avoiding re-occuring manual handlings	Yes, available	Yes, available	Yes, available
Copy pre-notification	Create a new notification by copying an existing pre-notifaction	Time saver by uploading multiple handlings in one go, avoiding re-occuring manual handlings	Yes, available	Yes, available	Yes, available
Email notifications	Email trigger available if a pre-notification or visit is (not-)accepted, updated, cancelled or rejected	Get alerted if situations change on pre-notification or visit level.	Yes, available	Yes, available	Yes, available
Email container status from HCN to external party	Send email with container status directly from HCN	Time saver by sending containerstatus updates to collegues, customers etc. No need to cut and paste HCN screenshots anymore	Yes, available	Yes, available	Yes, available
Container update support for terminals that do not allow updates	Since we work with direct debit HCN can process updates from carriers and translate them into a cancel and a new pre-message that the terminal can process. Only ECT and Euromax cannot yet process Updates for HCN Road.	Time saver for web users. Reduction of costs and complexity for the in-house software systems of operators by centralising this feature in HCN	Yes, available*	Yes, available*	Yes, available*
Improved grouping of containers for TAR/slot	Allows planners to easily save/pin containers across multiple search pages and selections	Time saver for road operators that work and plan containers from the HCN Road screens	Yes, available	N/A	N/A
Terminal alerting & notifications (soft errors)	Terminals can send extra notifications and alerts to operators in addition to existing container statuses. Example: this container is meant for another quay causing ITT. *Used by ECT	Extra information that will help optimize planning for the operators, forwarders and shippers	Yes, but no coverage	Yes, available*	Yes, but no coverage
Cargo Opening Time (COT)	Information field for Cargo Closing Time, stating the first date and time when the container can be delivered to the terminal. ECT supports Barge and is currently piloting Road RWG expected Q4 2023 APM2 is currently in pilot	Time saver, get necessary information on container, less roaming on (terminal and carrier) internet sites required	Yes, but no coverage*	Yes, available*	Yes, but no coverage*
Cargo Closing Time (CCT)	Information field for Cargo Closing Time, stating the latest date and time when the container needs to be in the terminal. ECT supports Barge and is currently piloting Road RWG expected Q4 2023 APM2 is currently in pilot	Time saver, get necessary information on container, less roaming on (terminal and carrier) internet sites required	Yes, but no coverage*	Yes, available*	Yes, but no coverage*
Commercial window (release expiration)	Information field for Commercial Release Window stating the beginning and end date and time in which the container can be picked up at the terminal. ECT supports barge and is currently piloting Road RWG expected Q4 2023 APM2 has approval, planning pending	Time saver, get necessary information on container, less roaming on (terminal and carrier) internet sites required	Yes, but no coverage*	Yes, available*	Yes, but no coverage*
Released for modality	Indicates what modality the container is released for. *ECT supports this for HCN Barge		Yes, but no coverage	Yes, available*	Yes, but no coverage
Estimated Time of Arrival of import container	Information field stating the estimated date and time when the container will be discharged from the ship and available on the terminal *ECT supports this for the truck MyTerminal premium account	Time saver, get necessary information on container, less roaming on (terminal and carrier) internet sites required	Yes, but no coverage*	Yes, but no coverage	Yes, but no coverage
Vessel information ETA/ETD	Information fields for vessel name, IMO code, voyage number, estimated time of arrival and departure. *ECT does this for Nextlogic barge operators and Myterminal Premium Road Intermediate solution RWG is live Intermediate solution RWG permission to transfer vessel information based on vessel name/IMO to share ETA and ETD from the Vessel Notification service with hauliers APM2 is live ETA/ETD information from shipping agents is live for 7 shipping companies	Time saver, get necessary information on container, less roaming on (terminal and carrier) internet sites required	Yes, but no coverage*	Yes, available*	Yes, but no coverage*
Block group	The stack module at the terminal where the container is present or needs to be delivered. RWG is expected in 2023.	Allows planning of efficient truck visits + barometers. For rail it could also be used to optimize the terminal operation (only rail terminals that are aligned with the stack)	Yes, but no coverage*	N/A	Yes, but no coverage*
Size type	The size type is registered in the systems of the terminal.* ECT supports barge and is currently piloting Road RWG expected 2023 APM2 has approval and planning pending	Time saver for correcting mismatches with import containers	Yes, but no coverage*	Yes, available*	Yes, but no coverage*
ECT Remote Check-In	Fast lane ticket, drivers go straight to terminal gate without passing truck counter at ECT building 5. Live since September 2022. ECT is working towards obligation.	Time saver, truckdrivers go directly to the terminal gate and avoid truck-desk at ECT building 5	Yes, available	N/A	N/A
Backup HCN Road (new version)	When HCN Road is down/offline a backup service should be available	Minimize idle time equipment in the port. New version allows linking multiple containers to 1 TAR (slot)	Expected, scheduled in 2024. The old backup Road is still available.	N/A	N/A
Extended container info	Additional container information for better transport planning and handling. Examples: humidity, generator, door open or not, reefer temperature settings, OOG container * Terminals and operators should provide information ECT provides the information for HCN Barge and Road	Time saver, get necessary information on container, less roaming on (terminal and carrier) internet sites required	Yes, available*	Yes, available*	Yes, available*
Extended sorting and filtering	Be able to sort and filter on pre-notifications statusses	Less information on screen where no action is required	Yes, available	Yes, available	Yes, available
Cargo Tracking System - Intra terminal transfer module	Module that handles carrier container transfer orders between terminals. Covers both logistics and customs processes		Expected 2024	Expected 2024	Expected 2024
Business Inteligence Solutions	Reporting tools in HCN	Be able to get progress information on t.b.n. KPI's	Under investigation	Under investigation	Under investigation
Synchromodal set up HCN	Be able to easily move pre-notifications between transport modalities road, barge and rail	Time saver, moving pre-notifications between transport modalities easily	Under investigation	Under investigation	Under investigation
Container and booking validator	Check pre-notification information, such as carrier, number, sizetype, TARE weight etc, against other data sources, in order to limit mistakes and improve pre-notification correctness	Time saver, less error prone during issueing pre-notifications	Under investigation	Under investigation	Under investigation
Empties - Loading and discharging	Allow prenotifications without container numbers for empties * ECT in pilot RWG expected, planning unknown APM2 has approval, planning pending	Automatically fill in container numbers for empties that are loaded or discharged	Yes, available*	Yes, available*	Yes, available*
Empties - Size type matching on group level	Allow load / dicharge confirmation matching based on the archetype sizetype that the container belongs to	Increase the number of matches that are loaded / dicharged so that container numbers can be automatically filled in	Yes, available	Yes, available	Yes, available
Empties - Avantida integration	Datasharing with Avantida network	Facilitate a more seamless process for re-use and return of empties (desired return location)	Under investigation	N/A	N/A
Nextlogic - HCN integration with integral planning	Integral planning of barges within the port of Rotterdam	Optimize usage of operator and terminals equipment and resources, reduction of port congestion	N/A	Yes, available	N/A
Nextlogic - Load and discharge list	Cut off when final barge loading/discharge list needs to be final in order for Nextlogic to plan the final barge call size	Accurate planning based on actual handlings. Optimize usage of operator and terminals equipment and resources, reduction of port congestion	N/A	Yes, available	N/A
Nextlogic - Minimum call size, BTM and fixed windows	Accomodate visit information which is used in the current barge processes.	Accurate planning based on actual handlings. Optimize usage of operator and terminals equipment and resources, reduction of port congestion	N/A	Yes, available	N/A
Nextlogic - Implementation	Integral planning of barges within the port of Rotterdam	Optimize usage of operator and terminals equipment and resources, reduction of port congestion	N/A	Yes, but in pilot Started on 4 October 2021	N/A
Rail Connected - Pre-notify train visit	Pro-forma locks, ad-hoc requests, train reference number. Live and mandatory from 1 November 2022 for ECT, Euromax, RWG. APM2 to follow in late 2023/2024.	Time saver, information can be re-used for planing improvements and sharing information amongs logistic partners	N/A	N/A	Yes, available
Rail Connected - Train composition	Estimated call size, wagonlist and containers, updates. Pilot to start in Q3	Time saver, information can be re-used for planing improvements and sharing information amongs logistic partners	N/A	N/A	Expected in 2023
Rail Connected - Terminal operation info	*In pilot Updates, load- discharge and position confirmations	Time saver, get necessary information on rail, less roaming on terminal internet sites and communication via telephone or email	N/A	N/A	Yes, but in pilot*
Redesign HCN Road screens	Complete redesign of all the HCN Road screens.	Better workflow and overview allow for more efficient planning for web users.	Yes, available	N/A	N/A
Rail Connected - Track & Trace traction data (not-operated area)	Plan, progress, wagon list and train number	Time saver, get necessary information on rail, less roaming on terminal internet sites and communicationvia telephone or email	N/A	N/A	Expected 2024
Rail Connected - Track & Trace rail network Europe data (operated area)	Plan 24 hrs before slot, progress, train number	Time saver, get necessary information on rail, less roaming on terminal internet sites and communicationvia telephone or email	N/A	N/A	Expected 2024
Port Alert - Dashboard disruptions and incident reporting	Port Alert project by Port of Rotterdam, TLN and Portbase. Central dashboard for disruptions	Get informed about disruptions in the port of Rotterdam as soon as they happen, less roaming on internet sites, less subscriptions on terminal mailings, less angry truckdrivers	Pilot in 2023, scaling in 2024	N/A	N/A
Port Alert - Terminal barometer	Port Alert project by Port of Rotterdam, TLN and Portbase	Time saver, get necessary information on truck visits slots availability, less trial and error and less roaming on terminal internet sites required	Expected 2024	N/A	N/A
Port Alert - Improved mobile support HCN	Optimize basic HCN functions on mobile devices	Make it easier to pre-notify and check containerstatus info from the truck cabin	Expected 2024	N/A	N/A
Port Alert - e-Gate & truck app: the virtual waiting line	For terminals without slots: a digital waiting line ticket based on geofencing	Dosage - less congestion	Expected 2024	N/A	N/A
Port Alert - e-Gate & truck app: pull mechanism	For slot terminals: spare capacity is utilized by 'pulling in' trucks that are in the proximity	Maximum utilization of capacity - less truck congestion	Under investigation	N/A	N/A
Container Dossier - Executing haulier	Monitoring function when pre-notifying by an executing road carrier (subcontractor/charter must use HCN Road) to terminal (must be supported by terminal)	More secure manner to inform terminals which company is allowed to pick up the container	Yes, available	N/A	N/A
Container Dossier - Basic authorization	Simple authorization through B/L and equipment (forecast) by forwarder/consignee.	Security: only authorized operators can send in pre-notifications to terminal.	Yes, but in pilot	Yes, but in pilot	Yes, but in pilot
Container Dossier - Basic integration import flow between cockpits operator and forwarder/consignee	Integration of Portbase services for deepsea, inland transport and cargo (vessel notification, MLI, HCN and Cargo Controller)	Time saver: forwarders/consignees have access to the same containerstatus information as operators + all available track and trace events. Operators can organize containers around B/Ls and clients. Both parties have acces to same data so less communication back and forth	Under investigation	Under investigation	Under investigation
Container Dossier - Integration with import manifest	Information from the import manifest can be used for prenotifications and inland planning.	import manifest holds the most up to date container related information. It can be used to complete and correct outdated information on a MCA prenotification.	Yes, but in pilot	Yes, but in pilot	Yes, but in pilot
Container Dossier - Commercial release pick-up info	Pickup reference and release party provided by the carrier	Time saver, allows statusrequests to be sent out automatically, saves communication back and forth with forwarder/consignee	Yes, but in pilot	Yes, but in pilot	Yes, but in pilot
Container Dossier - Commercial release return info	Information regarding the return of the equipment provided by the carrier (acceptance reference + location)	Time saver, saves communication back and forth with forwarder/consignee	Yes, but in pilot	Yes, but in pilot	Yes, but in pilot
Container Dossier - Basic integration export flow between cockpits operator and forwarder/shipper	Integration of Portbase services for deepsea, inland transport and cargo (vessel notification, MLE, HCN and Cargo Controller Export)	Time saver: forwarders/consignees have access to the same containerstatus information as operators + all available track and trace events. Operators can organize containers around B/Ls and clients. Both parties have acces to same data so less communication back and forth	Under investigation	Under investigation	Under investigation
Container Dossier - Transport order by operator	Allows for the registration of the container roundtrip: - pickup empty, loading en delivery for export - pickup, discharge en return empty for import	Links the different moves in a roundtrip together, this allows for better planning overviews, tracking for clients, easily completing container numbers for the empties	Yes, but in pilot	Yes, but in pilot	Yes, but in pilot
Container Dossier - Transport order by client	Registration of transport order by shipper/cosignee/forwarder	Links the different moves in a roundtrip together, this allows for better planning overviews, tracking for clients, easily completing container numbers for the empties	Yes, but in pilot	Yes, but in pilot	Yes, but in pilot
Container Dossier - Integration with inland terminals	Gate moves and possibly last-mile track and trace		Under investigation	Under investigation	Under investigation
Container Dossier - Demurrage and detention agreements	The number of free days given by the carrier	Time saver, get necessary planning (priority) information on container, saves communication back and forth with forwarder/consignee	Yes, but in pilot	Yes, but in pilot	Yes, but in pilot
Container Dossier - Carrier integration: Ocean transport booking	Up-to-date copy of the carrier booking	All inland parties have access to the carrier booking. Mutations in the booking that influence inland planning are instantly shared resulting in more reliable inland planning.	Under investigation	Under investigation	Under investigation
Container Dossier - Other enhancements	Extending the containerdossier further: MRN numbers + expiration dates, e-CMR, proof of delivery, etc	Time saver, instant sharing of data to all relevant parties within the inland container chain but also back towards deepsea terminals and carriers	Under investigation	Under investigation	Under investigation
Container Dossier - Full authorisation registers	Integration of market standards in PCS / HCN for authorisation and data sharing (MyData)	Adoption of market standards makes data sharing scalable beyond Portbase. For example between different Port communities and inland networks (such as the Rhine network and corridors)	Expected 2024	Expected 2024	Expected 2024

Port of Rotterdam

Evofenedex

Verenigde Eigen Rijders Nederland

2022.10.31 - Rail Cargo Information Netherlands

Koninklijke Binnenvaart Nederland

Rail Cargo Information Netherlands

Transport Logistiek Nederland

Your contribution to the development of our services

Portbase services are always developed in partnership with businesses in the port. Portbase cannot exist without your support for our goals. That is why it is important to us that we set the right course together. We do so at different levels and in different forums. We are keen to involve you more as a hinterland carrier. Below are a number of ways in which we look after your interests and how you can have your say.

Customer panels

The customer panels are made up of a broad group of Portbase customers and their sector organisations. Based on strategic objectives for a smarter port, this group represents wishes and priorities, also for you as a hinterland carrier. In addition, the customer panels set priorities for their specific domain. The customer panels are divided into four target groups:

• Hinterland
• Forwarders and shippers
• Shipping companies and shipbrokers
• Terminals and depots

Together we set the agenda to address these wishes. Membership of the customer panels is by invitation from Portbase.

Tip: Do you want to be part of the conversation? Talk to the customer panellists who represent you.

View customer panel participants

Working groups

The continued development of our services takes place in close collaboration with working groups. These working groups differ per service and/or functionality, but they are always made up of users who will actually be using the service. We aim for a representative balance in terms of modality and/or type of cargo.

The working groups actively contribute ideas on:

• New/existing functionalities
• Requirements
• Process agreements
• Planning
• Priority: This means that the elements which are most important for businesses are dealt with first.

As soon as functionalities are ready, they are tested and validated by working group members – for example, in a pilot project. In this way, Portbase can respond directly to any wishes and make any required improvements.

Strategic Advisory Board

The Strategic Advisory Board (SAB) represents the customer groups that discuss integral priorities. She is responsible for an accepted community roadmap, an improved bond with and between umbrella organizations and the creation of support among the grassroots.

The SAB looks at the digital agenda of the ports and advises on Portbase’s strategic portfolio objectives. She looks beyond domains and customer groups, to what is good for the ports and their community. In case of bottlenecks in the community roadmap, the SAB gives weighty advice.

View the members of the SAB

Insight in the costs

From 1 July 2022, the service Hinterland Container Notification (HCN) will be paid for you as a hinterland carrier

Subscription fee

€10
Fixed price per month

Transaction costs

€0.35
Per pre-notification of a full container

Free of charge

Status requests, update pre-notifications and empty containers

Calculation of the costs per container

We realise that you need insight to properly calculate costs. This is because you charge per container transport and HCN charges per pre-notification of a (partially) full container.

Experience shows that an average of 1.1 pre-notifications are made for a full container.

It is possible to download your invoice transactions in HCN and check this yourself.
Click on the links below to find out how to do this.

Tip: You save costs by updating pre-notifications, instead of cancelling and creating a whole new pre-notification.

All prices are exclusive of VAT. Portbase is a non-profit organisation. Have you already completed the online direct debit form? If not, please do so to continue using the service HCN.

Reuse your original prenotification

By updating prenotifications, instead of cancelling and creating a new prenotification, you save money!

This is because within HCN, each prenotification is given a unique label which Portbase uses to identify the transaction. You can change, cancel and resubmit this prenotification with its unique label at any time without restrictions. As long as you continue to use the same original prenotification, you will only pay a single transaction fee of €0.35*.

Example: You cancel the original prenotification (unique label A) and then start a completely new second prenotification (unique label B) for the same container. There are then two unique labels and two transactions fees of €0.35. So wherever possible, use the original prenotification and avoid unnecessary costs!

Please note: ECT and Euromax do not support updates on pre-notifications from HCN Road.

It is possible in HCN Road, to cancel the ECT/Euromax pre-notification, update that same pre-notification and send it in again.

This way, the original label/pre-notification is maintained and only Eur 0.35 is charged once.

Frequently Asked Questions

New customers

What will the ‘Data Fuel’ hinterland program bring me now and in the future?

View the functionalities list via the ‘Added value’ tab.

The Hinterland Container Notification service already offers you a lot of added value by pre-notifying your visits and containers, including extra functionalities, in one central place. In the coming years, we will continuously implement improvements and innovations for road, rail and inland waterway transport under the name ‘Data Fuel’.

Think of new functionalities, more integration of HCN and other Portbase services, expanding the number of participating (inland) terminals and depots, etc. With this focus on hinterland transport, Portbase wants to increase your experience with HCN and contribute to a more efficient, cheaper, making hinterland transport safer and more sustainable.

General ‘Data Fuel’

I keep reading that Portbase is starting ‘a hinterland programme’. What is meant by that?

Portbase once started with separate services for road transport, inland shipping and rail. These services mainly focused on the pre-declaration of cargo and visits to the terminals. The announced hinterland programme will broaden that focus. The service Hinterland Container Notification (HCN) functions as a multimodal data-sharing platform, specifically intended for smooth information exchange throughout the hinterland chain. Existing HCN functionalities will be expanded for this purpose and new HCN functionalities will be added.

What will the hinterland programme do for me in the short term?

HCN is being used by more and more terminals as a central entry point. Recently, RST was connected and it is expected that depots and inland terminals will soon follow. As a carrier, you will immediately reap the benefits of this. Moreover, in the coming months, new functionalities are planned which will ensure that information will become more centrally available. So that planners can just start planning again and don’t have to worry so much about all kinds of peripheral issues. The number of screens required will decrease, as will the number of necessary phone calls and manual work.

What can I expect from the hinterland programme in the longer term?

What we are working towards is broadening. Shipping companies and forwarding agents will also be involved in the hinterland programme, so that ultimately all links in the chain will be connected. The broadening will lead to better predictability. Where operational information has often been available only shortly beforehand, information will become available much earlier, so that it is actually possible to plan ahead. This will make it possible to organise port logistics and the hinterland chain much more efficiently in the future.

Why will only the carriers pay for HCN in the first place, besides the terminals?

A conscious decision was made to phase in the charging of the operational costs of HCN. This has largely to do with which functionalities will be developed and when. For the hauliers, new and improved functionalities will be introduced this year, but for the forwarders, for example, this will happen later.

Will the Port of Rotterdam Authority and the Port of Amsterdam continue to invest in the hinterland?

As shareholders of Portbase, both port authorities have invested for years and will continue to invest in the hinterland. This includes smart, future-oriented services at the service of parties in the entire hinterland chain. An example of this is Data Fuel, on which Portbase, TLN and the Port of Rotterdam Authority are already working together. In time, this application will provide insight into disruptions and congestion, so planners can plan better and more efficiently in the port logistics and hinterland chain.

Are any depots already connected to HCN?

We are in advanced discussions with depots such as UWT, Kramer, DR Depots and Cetem about connecting them to HCN.

The plan is to connect the first depot next year (2022). As a carrier, you will then be able to prenotify there for free.

Our organisation cannot bypass Portbase, is Portbase allowed to (legally) do this unilaterally?

With its service provision, Portbase has a unique position in the Dutch port. Based on the added value that Portbase offers, among other things through HCN, we have become a utility and a strategic asset in the Dutch port. Portbase basically exists because the services are always created in collaboration with the port community. Portbase cannot exist without our goals receiving support from you as a customer. We are proud of that!

Portbase has a number of (legal) frameworks for pricing all services. Some examples of elements from this are:

• Cost-effective: Portbase is a cost-based, non-profit organisation. The pricing model is therefore based on a calculation of the cost price per service.
• Value: Pricing must be offset by added value for the user. The current and future version of HCN offers this added value.
• Barriers for SMEs: It is important that Portbase keeps the barriers for SMEs to a minimum. When the pricing model was developed, several scenarios were developed regarding the subscription price and transaction costs. The pricing model is suitable for both small and large users.

For more information, please contact the Portbase sales team.

How can I reuse my original pre-notification and thus avoid unnecessary costs?

By updating pre-notifications instead of cancelling and creating new pre-notifications, you save costs!

This is because within HCN, each pre-notification is allocated a unique label by which Portbase recognises the transaction. You can change, cancel and resubmit this pre-notification with unique label time and time again and without restriction. As long as you continue to use the same original pre-notification, you only pay one transaction of €0.35*.

Example: Are you cancelling the first original pre-notification (unique label A) and then starting a completely new second pre-notification (unique label B) for the same container? This means there are two unique labels and two transactions of €0.35. Therefore, be sure to use the original pre-notification as much as possible and avoid unnecessary costs!

*Exceptions:

• ECT and Euromax do not support updates on pre-notifications.
• RST does not support changes for pre-notifications for HCN Barge.

Portbase is working on a solution to enable updates of pre-notifications. This makes it possible to avoid unnecessary transactions. We will inform you as soon as this solution is available.

Procedure for System Link-up (API)

This works in the same manner as outlined above by working with the original pre-notification. Need assistance? Please contact your software supplier or Portbase.

Why is Portbase starting a new hinterland programme?

Volumes in the port have grown tremendously in recent years. In addition, sea-going vessels have substantially increased in size. This results in an enormous peak load at terminals. Popular time slots fill up quickly and heavy congestion regularly occurs in the port.

The issues are complex and will not just vanish. By means of innovative IT solutions and the secure sharing of data within the port, we make the processes simpler and easier, thus improving your visit to the port.

Read the interview with Iwan van der Wolf (Portbase) and Emile Hoogsteden (Port of Rotterdam) here for more context.

Why is Portbase starting a new hinterland programme?

Read the interview with Iwan van der Wolf (Portbase) and Emile Hoogsteden (Port of Rotterdam) here for more context.

Is it correct that the Port of Rotterdam Authority does not want to continue with Portbase and no longer wants to invest?

No, that is not correct. The Port of Rotterdam Authority and the Port of Amsterdam are in fact opting to additionally reinforce the port and the hinterland. They use the digitisation of Portbase for this. The relationship and involvement between Portbase and the Port Authority (Port of Rotterdam Authority?) is good. However, the focus of the investments is changing. The Port Authority continues to invest in the infrastructure of the PCS and opts for further investment in innovations and new projects.

Pre-notifications and usage

I pay per prenotification of a full container, but what counts as a prenotification? And what doesn’t?

You pay for the use of the HCN platform. You send a pre-notification via the HCN service to the terminal when you plan to pick up or deliver a container. Sending a pre-notification for a full container will be charged as a billable transaction.

With the cancellation of a pre-notification (Cancel), the costs are not credited, as you have used the HCN platform which has incurred costs. Do you decide to use this cancelled pre-registration again? Then you can reactivate this pre-notification and pay only once.

With a status request, you request the status of your container(s) from the terminal. This is not a pre-notification. Status requests are free of charge.

Updating an existing pre-notification is also free of charge.

How many prenotifications do I make per container? One, two or more?

In the simplest form, you send one prenotification before collecting or delivering a container (empty is free, a full container means you pay). Experience shows that a container requires an average of 1.5 prenotifications to make a complete trip.

Below, we show the number of prenotifications required for a full container in a number of different scenarios and what you pay in those cases.

Flow 1: Simple
In this flow, you send 1 prenotification for a full container via HCN. This prenotified container is then collected or delivered at the agreed time.

Flow 2: Transferring full containers
You pick up a full container at terminal Y and drop it off at terminal Z. For example, in the case of transhipment or when an ocean vessel diverts to a different terminal than originally planned.

You pay at least 2x a transaction for this.

Example

Prenotification 1: Pick up at Terminal Y
Prenotification 2: Drop off at Terminal Z

Flow 3: Via transhipment point
You pick up a container at terminal Y and take it to terminal Z for further transport (mostly by train).

You may then pay 3x a transaction.

Prenotification 1: Pick up at Terminal Y
Prenotification 2: Drop off at Terminal Z (transhipment point)
Prenotification 3: Pick up at Terminal Z (for example, by train)

Flow 4: Re-entry
In exceptional cases, it happens that a container is retrieved after bringing it to the terminal. For example, to add goods, take them out or replace them (reload). In this case you pay:

Prenotification 1: Drop off at Terminal Z
Prenotification 2: Pick up at Terminal Z
Prenotification 3: Drop off again at Terminal Z

Flow 5: Customs check
In this scenario, a full container is picked up at the terminal, taken to a scanning location or Customs Control Pilot (DCL) and returned to the terminal after the check.

This only applies to transport by public road outside the terminal with an external carrier.

Prenotification 1: Pick up at Terminal X
Prenotification 2: Drop of at Terminal X, Y or Z

Please note: If you can drive straight on to the final destination after a scan, you do not need to do a 2nd pre-notification.

Flow 6: Subcontracting
For example, has carrier A already sent a pre-notification to the terminal, but then subcontracted the transport to subcontractor/charter B? Then carrier A cancels the pre-notification and subcontractor/charter B sends a new pre-notification itself.

As a result, you make two pre-notifications on one transport/container.

Pre-notification 1: Transporter A pre-notifies and cancels
Pre-notification 2: Subcontractor/Charter B sends its own pre-notification

How does Portbase count the number of prenotifications? Do I pay double if I cancel?

Each prenotification is given a unique label in Portbase that we can recognise it by. This means you can change, cancel and resubmit a prenotification and still pay just one fee.

I would like more information about my use of HCN. Is this possible?

Yes this is possible. In MCA, you can download your billable transactions and use that information to perform the necessary checks for yourself. Click on the links below to find out how to do this.

Costs

When will hinterland carriers start paying for HCN?

From 1 July 2022

What is HCN’s fee structure?

Here you can read about HCN’s tariff, how billing HCN transactions is done, what is/isn’t charged, and how you can use the service even better and save costs. If you have any questions regarding the above, please contact sales@portbase.com.

How is the advance (what I pay per month) calculated?

In our systems, we looked at the number of prenotifications of full containers you sent to the terminals over the past year (from July 2020 to June 2021). We divided this total number of prenotifications by 12 in order to calculate an average number of prenotifications per month. Multiply this number by €0.35 (= transaction fee per prenotification), add the monthly subscription fee of €10 and you have the monthly advance payment.

Calculation example

7500 prenotifications of full containers per year

Divided by 12 = 625 prenotifications per month on average

625 x €0.35 per prenotification of a full container = a monthly amount of €218.75

Total per month = €10 in subscription fees excluding VAT and an advance payment of €218.75 excluding VAT = total €228.75 excluding VAT

What you do not pay for and what has not been included in the calculation:

Free: Status requests for a container
Free: Updates to prenotifications
Free: Prenotification of an empty container
- Storage of the empty container at a terminal
- In the future also at depots

What happens if I exceed the advance? What happens if I use less?

At the start of each year, settlement takes place for the previous year. So at the start of 2023, you will receive a final bill for your actual use of HCN in 2022.

If you prenotified more full containers than previously calculated, you will pay the difference in the number of prenotifications x €0.35.

If you prenotified fewer full containers than previously calculated, we will reimburse the difference in the number of prenotifications x €0.35.

Why am I paying more than my fellow carrier? How did you come up with this quote?

Everyone is charged based on the same cost structure.

Subscription fees: €10 per month excluding VAT

Transaction fee: €0.35 per prenotification of a full container, excluding VAT

Since each firm transports different numbers of containers, the amounts charged on vary.

In the advance calculation, we look at the number of prenotifications of full containers you sent over the past year (from July 2020 to June 2021). We then divide this total number of prenotifications by 12 in order to calculate an average number of prenotifications per month. Multiply this number by €0.35, add the monthly subscription fee of €10 and you have the total monthly advance payment.

Why does Hinterland Container Notification (HCN) use advance invoicing instead of invoicing based on actual usage?

At present, it is not technically possible for us to directly invoice the actual usage on a monthly basis. In time, we will however switch to a system whereby we invoice you each month based on your actual usage of HCN. This way, we help prevent surprises.

About the advance invoicing

In our calculation of the advance payment, we considered the number of pre-notifications submitted by you for filled containers over the past year (from July 2020 to June 2021). We divided this total number of pre-notifications by 12 to arrive at an average number of pre-notifications per month. This means you will not be confronted with surprises.

Insight

We are looking into the possibilities of providing you with periodic insight into the number of pre-notifications in the future.

In which situations do I need to pay several times for 1 container?

In the simplest form, before collecting or bringing a container, you send 1x pre-notification (empty is free, a full container means paying).

Below, we show the number of pre-notifications required for a full container for a number of scenarios and what you will therefore pay.

Flow 1: Simple
In this flow, you send 1 prenotification for a full container via HCN. This prenotified container is then collected or delivered at the agreed time.

Flow 2: Transferring full containers
You load a full container at terminal Y and drop it off at terminal Z. For example, if the container is being transhipped or when a seagoing vessel docks at a different terminal than originally planned.

In this case, you pay for at least two transactions.

Example

Prenotification 1: Pick up at Terminal Y
Prenotification 2: Drop off at Terminal Z

Flow 3: Via transhipment point
You pick up a container at terminal Y and take it to terminal Z for onward transport (usually by train).

You may pay for three transactions in this case.

Prenotification 1: Pick up at Terminal Y
Prenotification 2: Drop off at Terminal Z (transhipment point)
Prenotification 3: Pick up at Terminal Z (for example, by train)

Flow 4: Re-entry
In exceptional cases, a container may be retrieved after it has been brought to the terminal – for example, in order to add, remove or replace (reload) goods. In this case, you pay:

Prenotification 1: Drop off at Terminal Z
Prenotification 2: Pick up at Terminal Z
Prenotification 3: Drop off again at Terminal Z

Flow 5: Customs check
In this scenario, a full container is picked up at the terminal, taken to a scanning location or Customs Inspection Warehouse and returned to the terminal after the inspection.

This only applies to transport by an external carrier via a public highway outside the terminal.

Prenotification 1: Pick up at Terminal X
Prenotification 2: Drop of at Terminal X, Y or Z

Please note: If you are able to drive straight on to your final destination after a scan, you do not need to make a second prenotification.

Flow 6: Subcontracting
For example, has carrier A already sent a pre-notification to the terminal, but then subcontracted the transport to subcontractor/charter B? Carrier A then cancels the pre-notification and subcontractor/charter B sends a new pre-notification itself.

As a result, you make two pre-notifications on one transport/container.

Prenotification 1: Carrier A pre-notifies and cancels itself
Prenotification 2: Subcontractor/Charter B sends its own prior notice

Why do I need to start paying for HCN/Portbase?

The pricing of pre-notifications for a full container is not an end in itself. Portbase will strengthen the hinterland chain and the service provision in the coming years. We do this by means of an ambitious improvement programme named ‘Data Fuel’. The aim is not to generate new revenue for Portbase, but to maintain and expand the Portbase solutions for you as a hinterland transporter.

Almost 20 years ago, the port community recognised the importance of a PCS for the Dutch ports, and with that the corresponding role and position of Portbase. In 2009, the Port of Rotterdam Authority and the port business community therefore laid down the starting points and conditions for this in an ‘agreement for the future’. This agreement also covers the passing on of operational costs to the business community. Due to the strategic significance of properly establishing the service, an exception has been in place for Hinterland Container Notification (HCN) since 2009.

Read the interview with Iwan van der Wolf (Portbase) and Emile Hoogsteden (Port of Rotterdam) here for more context.

I will need to start paying for something that used to be free. Why not add extras first and then require payment?

The service HCN was never truly free. Due to the strategic importance of properly implementing this service, the Port of Rotterdam Authority has been investing in this service since 2009 and has borne the costs to the point where the added value of HCN would be sufficient. That moment has now arrived.
Hinterland Container Notification already offers quite some added value right now. You have access to a one-stop-shop and the Customer Service, are able to digitally pre-notify your visits and containers etc. A lot of new functionalities have been added in the past period as well, such as:

• Rebuild of HCN
• Guidance and support
• Connection of new terminals
• Link-up with Nextlogic. An integrated planning for HCN Barge
• New support pages with helpful content
• Improved system link-ups (API)
• A dashboard and clear process in the event of PCS disruptions
• etc.

Furthermore, it is our aim to continuously further develop and add more value.

How can I reuse my original pre-notification in MCA to avoid unnecessary costs?

By updating pre-notifications, instead of cancelling and creating a new pre-notification, you save costs!

Each pre-notification is given a unique label within HCN, which Portbase uses to recognise the transaction. You can change, cancel and resubmit this pre-notification with its unique label again and again without limitation. As long as you continue to use the same original pre-announcement, you only pay one transaction of €0.35*.

Example: Do you cancel the first original pre-notification (unique label A) and then start an entirely new second pre-notification (unique label B) for the same container? Then there are two unique labels and two transactions of €0.35. So use the original pre-notification as much as possible and avoid unnecessary costs!

Please note: ECT and Euromax do not support updates on pre-notifications from HCN Road.

It is possible in HCN Road, to cancel the ECT/Euromax pre-notification, update that same pre-notification and send it in again.

This way, the original label / pre-notification is maintained and only Eur 0.35 is charged once.

Working method for system connection (API)
This works the same way as above by working with the original pre-notification. Are you unable to work it out? If so, contact your software supplier or Portbase.

Billing

How are the charges invoiced?

Each month, you will receive an invoice with the previous month’s actual consumption.

What is the difference between the monthly invoice and the monthly e-mail about the insight into usage?

You, as an HCN customer, will receive an email every month stating your own MCA consumption for the month in question. The reported consumption only concerns the pre-notifications that are charged. For example, a pre-notification for an empty container is not taxed.

You will also receive a monthly invoice. The amount invoiced to you monthly is an advance payment based on the average number of pre-notifications from last year. At the beginning of the new year, for example, 2023, you will receive a final settlement for the actual use.

What if we forget to pay an invoice?

Since we work with direct debits, it is not possible to pay late. If a collection is not possible for any reason, we will send you a reminder, and later a demand for payment.

What if I disagree with an invoice – who should we contact and how does Portbase deal with such cases?

You can contact our sales team to discuss your concerns or questions.

Does Portbase invoice charges in the event of a disruption to its services?

Yes, charges are still invoiced. This is because, once the fault has been resolved, the containers will be prenotified to the terminals and then invoiced in accordance with the regular process

Is Portbase available 24/7 now that we, hauliers, are having to pay?

Not in all cases. As regards the current service provision, there will be no immediate change to availability at Portbase. Outside office hours, Portbase staff work on an on-call basis so that disruptions can be resolved.

You can see how the Portbase Customer Service works here.

Do hauliers need to prove their creditworthiness?

No, that is not necessary. We check the company details and the specified EAN number of the Cargo card.

How does Portbase’s cost-based financing model work?

Portbase is a cost-based organisation that does not have a profit motive. The pricing model of the services is based on a cost price calculation. The starting point for the services is that the costs are borne by the users. Both shareholders (Port of Rotterdam Authority and Port of Amsterdam) additionally finance the ICT infrastructure of the PCS.

We serve you: cost-effectively, neutrally and for the benefit of the entire port community. We therefore do not apply commercial rates, but your contribution does allow us to realise the proposed plans.

Customer Service

Service Levels HCN | Hauliers

You can use the Portbase platform and the service Hinterland Container Notification within your business process with confidence. Click here to read the Service Levels for hauliers.

Central point of contact

Portbase Support is the central point of contact for all your questions about our services. Our team of trained and specialist staff are on hand 24/7 to get you back on track quickly and record your feedback. They are there to support you to use the service.

Make your voice heard

Make your voice heard. We keep a record of all the questions asked. If we get a lot of the same questions or feedback, that is a signal that we need to do something about it. Ask your question to Customer Service.

Get in contact with us

We are happy to support you. You can reach us via the following buttons

Email us

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Data Fuel: Teaming up for hinterland efficiency

By doing so, we are strengthening

Your logistics company

The Dutch ports

Adding value through 5 focal points

Why are we doing this?

Planning in 3 phases

Standard Portbase Service

1. Please the Planner

2. Container Cockpit

3. Container Control

To Be Continued…

What additions are planned?

Explanation of signs

Port of Rotterdam

Evofenedex

Verenigde Eigen Rijders Nederland

Koninklijke Binnenvaart Nederland

Rail Cargo Information Netherlands

Transport Logistiek Nederland

Your contribution to the development of our services

Insight in the costs

Subscription fee

Transaction costs

Free of charge

Calculation of the costs per container

Reuse your original prenotification

Frequently Asked Questions

New customers

General ‘Data Fuel’

Pre-notifications and usage

Costs

Billing

Customer Service

Get in contact with us

Subscribe

PCS

Services

About us

Data Fuel: Teaming up for hinterland efficiency

By doing so, we are strengthening

Adding value through 5 focal points

Why are we doing this?

Planning in 3 phases

Standard Portbase Service

1. Please the Planner

2. Container Cockpit

3. Container Control

To Be Continued…

What additions are planned?

Explanation of signs

Port of Rotterdam

Evofenedex

Verenigde Eigen Rijders Nederland

Koninklijke Binnenvaart Nederland

Rail Cargo Information Netherlands

Transport Logistiek Nederland

Your contribution to the development of our services

Insight in the costs

Calculation of the costs per container

Reuse your original prenotification

Frequently Asked Questions

New customers

General ‘Data Fuel’

Pre-notifications and usage

Costs

Billing

Customer Service

Subscribe

PCS

Services

About us

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