Column Neele-Vat Logistics: Time for change in the port of Rotterdam

Time for change in the port of Rotterdam

Born and raised in the family business Neele-Vat Logistics, the port of Rotterdam is in my heart and soul. Rotterdam inspires me, and as we say here, "The Maas flows through my veins." As a true entrepreneur, I am always looking for new opportunities and want to improve quality - not only for my own company, but also for the port as a whole. For some time I have felt that there are two important themes that need to be addressed: digitization and cooperation.

Digitization as a crucial step forward

When it comes to digitization, I think ports have a lot of catching up to do. The focus is now mainly on the hardware - building new ports, roads and railroads - whereas it should be on the software: developing intelligent systems that allow us to work faster and more efficiently. The whole world is investing in software and digitization. Personally, I think investments in Portbase, for example, should be the highest priority for all ports. I am convinced that digitalization will take us further and help Rotterdam maintain its leading position.

That brings me to the second point: throughput time. At the Port of Rotterdam, we still have the fastest turnaround time, but there is room for improvement. Keep in mind that there are many parties involved in the journey of a container through the port. The level of cooperation between these parties determines the lead time, and frankly - we can do so much better if that cooperation is improved. As a forwarder, we deal with all these links in the chain. It frustrates me that everyone acts primarily from their own interests, without an eye for the bigger picture - let alone really working together.

This is why I believe there should be a code of conduct for all parties involved in container transport. I strongly believe that we will all save time and thus money if we make clear agreements on how to work together in the best possible way. And in doing so, we need to keep each other on our toes. Such a code should not be a static document, but a dynamic agreement based on advancing insight.

What surprises me is that there is not yet a single port worldwide with such a code of conduct. That only motivates me to make sure that we in Rotterdam are the first. Because that suits our character: Rotterdam is innovative and progressive - and this is yet another way to prove it.