Last Monday marked the start of the registration phase for the digital release process for container imports through the seaports of Hamburg, Bremerhaven, and Wilhelmshaven. According to Dakosy, freight forwarders, logistics, and transport companies can register for participation via the German Ports website.
The goal of the new service is to effectively counteract drug smuggling with a secure release procedure. The project is backed by dbh Logistics IT AG and Dakosy, who developed the new digital procedure in collaboration with the port industry and jointly operate it on the German Ports platform.
Register promptly
The new exemption procedure is expected to be mandatory for all companies involved in import processes from October 1, 2025, it further states. Dakosy project manager Sven Reimers:
“Freight forwarders and transport companies should plan sufficient time to implement the technical connection and test the new processes during the soon-to-begin test phase.”
Companies can connect their own IT systems via open interfaces, use their existing digital access through the software company's PCS platforms (IMP) or Dbh (BIT), or handle exemptions via the German Ports web platform.
“Digital Right to Pick Up” Replaces PIN Procedure
The new clearance procedure is based on the “digital right to pick up,” which will replace the previous PIN-based clearance reference. The new “digital right” aims to ensure that from the sea arrival of the container at the port to its pickup by the transport company, it is always traceable who is allowed to dispose of the container. The release of the container with the “digital right” can only be carried out by an authorized party to the next authorized party. Reimers:
“An important prerequisite is that companies align their internal processes with the new clearance process.”
The next online informational event on the new clearance process and the future “digital right to pick up” will take place on April 24 from 2:00 to 3:30 PM, it is concluded.
