Just 12% of transports at Antwerp's port currently operate at night. However, Flemish business federation Voka intends to double this figure, according to its latest roadmap.
"We are looking for partners in the logistics chain – carriers, shipping agents, warehouse managers – who are willing to embrace this change," stated Stephan Vanfraechem, General Director of port organisation Alfaport-Voka. He emphasised the necessity of all parties in the logistics sector getting involved.
Certain port terminals remain open around-the-clock, but beyond the port, activity often halts at dusk. "Carriers tell us they sometimes find a closed gateway in the late evening or early morning when they want to collect or drop off a container. We need to find a solution to this issue," Vanfraechem said.
In essence, Voka is looking to revive the night logistics plan that was launched in 2017. Vanfraechem described the current 12% of nighttime transports as a good start, but is keen to go further. "Four out of five clients continue to favour peak hours, causing waiting times in and around the port area," he explained.
Several major roadworks are planned around Antwerp in the coming decade. A new transport arrangement is underway to prevent lorries from coming to a complete standstill.
