In 2019, the volume of containers put through the port of Rotterdam rose by 2.1%, to 14.8 million TEU per year. In the first half of 2020, container flows decreased by 7% to 7 million TEU. Container handling is the key driver of growth in the port today. And inland shipping plays an indispensable role in the transport of containers to the hinterland. At present, 38% of the containers that move between Maasvlakte and the hinterland are transported by inland vessels. The Port Authority aims to increase this share to 45% by 2030. To facilitate this growth, we strive to create a fully optimised inland container shipping chain.
Developments in the container chain
Over the past few years, a number of global developments have had a major impact on the container chain. In Rotterdam, this has resulted in stronger peaks in throughput volumes in the port and the associated landward and seaward handling requirements. Coordination between parties in the chain regarding the planning and execution of container transport in the sea port has become more complex.