Dear Sir or Madam,
A new legal regulation that will fundamentally change the clearance process for import containers in German seaports will come into force on 1. October 2025. As part of the German Ports initiative, a uniform digital clearance procedure will replace the previous PIN- or turnout-based system.
New framework conditions for container collection
With the launch of the Secure Release Order (SRO), the right to collect containers will in future be handled exclusively digitally via the German Ports platform. The key points of the change are summarised below:
- Manual releases will no longer be necessary: The previous release procedure using a PIN or reference number will be replaced by a digital collection right.
- Introduction of a digital chain: The shipowner will grant the right to collect via the German Ports platform to the next party involved in the transport, and this right will be passed on along the transport chain – up to the operator or truck company.
However, these changes only affect full containers. Empty containers can still be collected with a manual release.
What does this mean for you as a customer?
To ensure smooth container acceptance by EUROGATE Intermodal after 1 October 2025, you must grant us the digital collection right (Secure Release Order) via the German Ports platform.
Without a valid digital exemption, it will no longer be permitted to collect containers from ports. This applies regardless of the service provider or freight forwarder used.
Recommended actions:
- Register with the German Ports well in advance::
➝ http://germanports.com/en/anmeldung - Get an overview of the process:
➝ http://germanports.com/en/spediteur-und-logistiker - Take advantage of the free information offers
Webinars and FAQs can be found at:
➝ http://germanports.com/en/events
➝ http://germanports.com/en/kontakt - If necessary, check whether your EDI connection/interface is designed for the new system
Our German Ports ID
We will send you your individual German port ID separately, which you will need to assign collection rights.
We are here to support you!
The legally mandated switch to the Secure Release Order is a significant step towards digitising port processes. At EUROGATE Intermodal, we will actively support you with implementation and answer any questions you may have.
Thank you for your cooperation and trust.
Customer support
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