Shipping containers via inland waterways is much simpler thanks to the Barge Traffic System (BTS). This web application makes the handling of inland container shipping in the Port of Antwerp-Bruges completely transparent.
With BTS, inland shipping operators can submit their time slot requests to terminals. You indicate which terminals you wish to call at and how many container movements are planned. The terminal operators then send you an optimized schedule in return. This means you don’t have to wait unnecessarily — you know exactly which time slot is reserved for you. In addition, BTS ensures that your entire sailing schedule across all terminals is perfectly coordinated.
With Barge Traffic System, terminal operators can create an optimal planning schedule.
Less administration and shorter waiting times result in lower costs.
BTS offers a single, uniform system for all terminal requests within your vessel’s schedule. The application also proactively notifies users of potential scheduling conflicts.
Thanks to Barge Traffic System, terminal and planning data are always available. The application ensures a smooth and interactive process.
As an inland navigation operator transporting containers, you are required to register for BTS. After registration, you can submit your slot requests to the desired terminals. To facilitate this process, you will have access to an overview of opening hours, terminal occupancy and any nautical restrictions for each terminal.
If you call at multiple terminals while visiting the port, BTS's built-in conflict control comes into play. That alerts while entering the slot request whether the estimated arrival time is feasible, taking into account average sailing time and estimated handling time between terminals.
Terminal operators also need to register to use the Barge Traffic System. It allows you to approve, modify or reject the slot requests received. In case of conflicts, you can coordinate your schedules with other terminal operators. You can easily relay that schedule to the inland navigation operator via BTS.
Once the ship has been handled, you also need to record the actual arrival and departure times, as well as the number of containers handled.
