Gradual rollout of German Ports begins

06 October 2025 | The German port industry took a significant step towards digitalisation on 1 October 2025: The new digital release procedure for import containers was successfully introduced in the seaports of Bremerhaven, Wilhelmshaven and Hamburg with the Secure Release Order (SRO). The launch of the project marks an important milestone, particularly for the safety of employees at the seaports and in the hinterland. Thanks to the cross-border cooperation between politicians, the port industry and the two software companies dbh and DAKOSY, a joint platform has been established that will also enrich the ports in future through increased efficiency.

Standardised, secure and digital exemption process

The aim of the joint project is to introduce a standardised, secure and end-to-end digital process for releasing import containers. At the centre of this is the new "digital right to collect", which completely replaces the PIN-based release process used to date. This should not only increase transparency in container handling, but above all significantly reduce the risk of misuse, data leaks and smuggling.

The SRO uses a modern role and authorisation management system that controls access to container data in a targeted manner and effectively prevents misuse by unauthorised third parties. Thanks to detailed documentation that is easy for the relevant investigating authorities to follow, processes will be much more transparent in future than they have been to date. In view of growing global trade volumes and international security requirements, "German Ports" secures import processes for the future.

Joint commitment to a safe and modern port location

As operators of the Port Community Systems (PCS) in Bremerhaven/Wilhelmshaven (dbh) and Hamburg (DAKOSY), the two IT service providers designed and implemented the project together with partners from the port industry.

The amended state laws on port security form a binding legal framework for the digital container release process and define clear responsibilities for all parties involved in the import process. This not only increases legal certainty for companies, but also paves the way for uniform standards in port logistics. The legislative amendments are the result of intensive cooperation between the port authorities, state governments and industry representatives - a strong signal that state politics and industry are working together to strengthen German seaports in international competition. The corresponding laws will come into force in Hamburg and Bremen this year, while Lower Saxony is expected to follow suit in 2027.

"With the Secure Release Order, we are demonstrating how end-to-end digitalisation in port logistics can combine security, efficiency and user-friendliness. The close coordination with political players and our partners in the ports was a key success factor in the practical implementation," explains Holger Hübner, authorised signatory and Head of Port Solutions at dbh Logistics IT AG.

Source: dbh Logistics IT AG

Gradual rollout creates reliability and planning security

The rollout of the SRO is deliberately taking place in several stages in order to enable a secure and stable transition for all parties involved, regardless of their size or level of digitalisation. Since 1 October 2025, shipping companies have been able to release their containers PIN-free via German Ports.

At the same time, freight forwarders, importers and carriers will also be actively integrated into the system step by step. In a further step, the mandatory use of the SRO process will begin at one selected terminal each in Hamburg and Bremerhaven or Wilhelmshaven. This will be followed by the nationwide introduction at all other terminals, with activation taking place according to a fixed schedule.

Various connection options

Companies can connect their systems and integrate the new processes via open interfaces or existing access to the PCS platforms. Alternatively, the intuitive German Ports web platform is available as a browser-based solution to ensure the seamless integration of all affected companies.

Sustainability and efficiency gains lead to tangible customer benefits

In addition to security aspects, the process also offers economic and ecological benefits. By avoiding media disruptions and manual effort, companies can speed up processes, reduce sources of error and automate communication. This leads to tangible efficiency gains in the supply chain and supports the sustainable transformation of the logistics sector.

Customers of logistics companies also benefit directly: shorter downtimes, faster availability of goods and more transparent processes ensure greater planning reliability, especially for time-critical deliveries or complex international supply chains. The improved data quality and automated assignment of authorisations within the SRO also mean that queries can be avoided. The time saved can help to reduce operational costs.

"This means that the digital release procedure is not only an innovative leap forward for port logistics, but also a clear competitive advantage for everyone involved along the supply chain, right through to the client and end customer," explains Dirk Gladiator, authorised signatory at DAKOSY Datenkommunikationssystem AG.

Source: bremenports

About dbh Logistics IT AG

Since its foundation in Bremen in 1973, dbh Logistics IT AG has developed into one of the leading companies for software and consulting in the areas of customs and foreign trade, compliance, shipping and transport management, port management, SAP and cloud services. With its comprehensive portfolio, the IT specialist offers fully integrated solutions for reliably functioning logistics chains worldwide: its services range from strategy and process consulting, software development and implementation to support and hosting in its own ISO/IEC 27001-certified, secure and highly available data centres. In addition to its headquarters in Bremen, dbh Logistics IT AG is represented at 5 other locations in Germany. The company currently employs around 300 people, who are committed to more than 3,000 customers from industry and trade, freight forwarding and logistics, as well as shipping and harbours. Further information can be found at www.dbh.de

Contact person
Gerrit Naß, Team Leader Marketing dbh Logistics IT AG
Phone: +49 421 30902103
E-mail: presse@dbh.de

www.dbh.de

About DAKOSY Datenkommunikationssystem AG

As one of the leading software houses for logistics, DAKOSY has been providing digital solutions for international freight forwarding and customs clearance as well as supply chain management for over 40 years. In addition, DAKOSY operates the Port Community System (PCS) for the Port of Hamburg and, through the allivate joint venture with Fraport AG, administers the Cargo Community System (FAIR@Link) for Frankfurt and Hamburg airports. All companies and authorities involved in import and export processes can use these digital platforms to handle their transport processes quickly and with maximum automation.

Contact person
Katrin Woywod, Press DAKOSY AG
Phone: +49 40 37003320
e-mail: woywod@dakosy.de

www.dakosy.de