The port of Rotterdam launched the electronic services "Notification ship" and "Notification cargo EDI". The introduction of these services marks the end of the "paper communication" between companies and government bodies, (especially Customs). The new working method will apply to the entire port, starting with the container sector.

The services 'notification ship' and 'notification cargo EDI' are part of the new coordinating Port Community System for the port of Rotterdam.

The system comprises a wide range of practical information and communication services that allow all links in the logistics chain to optimally communicate with one another - and therefore operate more efficiently - using the Internet and EDI. The Port Community System is a new, fully fledged part of Rotterdam's port infrastructure.

"Notification ship" allows shipping companies/cargo handling agents to in a simple manner submit their compulsory notifications regarding visiting sea-going vessels to the Harbor Master and Customs via the Internet.

"Notification cargo EDI" facilitates the electronic submission of (brief) cargo declarations to Customs. The service anticipates the new declaration system of Customs. In the near future, Customs want to completely do away with paper declarations. The first group of shipping companies/cargo handling agents linking up to "Notification cargo EDI" alone each year declares 2.1 million TEU of import containers.

The accompanying paper declarations all together yield a pile of A4s that is at least 750 meters high, according the Port information. "Notification cargo EDI" will make all this paper obsolete. But the most important advantage of course is the fact that procedures will be streamlined. The procedures surrounding cargo documentation will from now on be cheaper, faster and better.