Mobility & connectivityRoad

Night logistics

By carrying out logistics at night as well, we reduce peak moments in container transport at terminals and on the road. This not only helps the port operate more smoothly but also makes your transportation process more efficient.

What is night logistics?

With night logistics, we distribute container transport across both day and night. It is one of the solutions to smooth out peaks in container transport at terminals and on the road. By staggering truck access to the terminals throughout the day and night, we prevent congestion and reduce daytime traffic pressure. 

 

Close cooperation with service providers, such as terminals and depots, makes this possible. All major container terminals, including MPET, DP World, and PSA, will remain open continuously from 5am Monday to 5am Saturday. Following successful negotiations with partners, night access has become a regular service feature.

What are the benefits?

Night logistics offers a range of advantages for both companies and carriers. A few concrete examples include: 

  • More efficient use of existing infrastructure: Distributing transport across day and night helps to avoid peak periods. By doing so, we make optimal use of both night hours and regular daytime opening hours.
  • Faster delivery times: Throughput for road hauliers is smoother, with fewer delays and less waiting time.
  • Enhanced competitiveness: A smooth flow of goods is vital for the port's success. Without effective logistics, there is a risk of companies redirecting to alternative ports. Night logistics enhances not only mobility but also the port's competitiveness and growth potential.
Blue Long Haul Semi-Truck with Cargo Trailer Full of Goods Travels At Night on the Freeway Road, Driving Across Continent Through Rain, Fog, Snow. Industrial Warehouses Area. Front Shot; Shutterstock ID 1813109371; purchase_order: 32401982; job: ; client: POAB; other: Katrien VdB

The biggest challenge

Although the benefits are clear, adopting night logistics requires adjustments across the entire logistics chain. The benefits of a night-open terminal are minimal if carriers, depots, and hinterland companies can't adjust to the schedule. This is currently the biggest challenge.

 

Port of Antwerp-Bruges is therefore also calling on all parties in the hinterland to commit to night logistics. Staying open at night or offering night-time access to carriers allows you to fully capitalise on the opportunities in the port area. Carriers can play a vital role in this by informing their clients about night-time services.

Opening hours

This table outlines the current opening hours for port terminals and empty container depots. As such, you’ll be well-informed on how to leverage the port’s opportunities.

Toolbox

Port of Antwerp-Bruges will soon introduce a convenient toolbox to support companies, providing all the necessary information to help them adopt or benefit from night logistics. Opportunities for financial support for night logistics projects will also be outlined here. So be sure to keep an eye on this page! 

Who is leading the project?

The action plan is spearheaded by Port of Antwerp-Bruges, Lantis, and Alfaport, in cooperation with all port stakeholders and beyond. This extensive collaboration focuses on establishing projects that expand night logistics and improve regulatory conditions.

You might also find this interesting

Road transport
Mobility & connectivity

Road transport

Truck parking
Mobility & connectivity

Truck parking

Transport
Mobility & connectivity

Transport

Multimodal transport is our sport
Mobility & connectivity

Multimodal transport is our sport