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Case

Keeping Loodswezen moving

“The key advantage of the Vessel Visit API for us is that manual data entry is eliminated. This saves time, increases transparency and results in a higher reliability of the data. After all, the chance of errors decreases“ – Dennis Lenting, Functional Application manager – Loodswezen

Vessel Visit API
Marketplace

Transforming pilotage operations: the impact of Vessel Visit API

Nederlands Loodswezen (The Dutch Pilots) has enhanced its operations by implementing Portbase’s Vessel Visit API, which streamlines the guidance of approximately 60,000 ships into the Port of Rotterdam each year. This tool provides real-time updates on vessel positions and estimated arrival times, improving pilotage planning and enabling Just-in-Time (JIT) arrivals. As a result, processes throughout the supply chain can be optimised.

Minimizing errors in documentation

Another notable benefit of the API is its automation of the billing process. It allows for the automatic inclusion of client reference numbers from ship agents in the Port Community System directly onto invoices of Nederlands Loodswezen . This eliminates manual data entry, streamlining operations and minimizing errors

Streamlining information flows

The Vessel Visit API provides port users with information about vessels entering the Dutch ports. It contains data from the agents, terminals, harbor masters, bunker operators and nautical service providers. This data includes:

  • Vessel identification details (IMO code, name)
  • Voyage information (previous and next ports)
  • Estimated and actual arrival times
  • Pilotage-specific data (pilot boarding place, pilot on board time)
  • Berth information and cargo handling details

By consolidating this information into a single, accessible platform, the API eliminates the need for manual data entry and reduces the risk of errors, thereby enhancing overall operational efficiency.

Sharing data in a generic way

The benefits of Vessel Visit API are crystal clear to Lenting: “With the large amount of data already available, we can further optimize our internal processes and provide the service our customers have come to expect from us. Plus, the database is growing steadily, making it easy for us to extract much more data from the application in the future.”

Port call optimisation

The API also contributes to Just in time (JIT) arrivals by enabling vessels to adjust their speed and arrival times based on port conditions and berth availability, which reduces fuel consumption and emissions. Additionally, it provides valuable terminal timing data that enhances coordination between pilotage services and terminal operations, leading to more efficient port calls. As a result, pilots can optimize their schedules, reducing waiting times and improving resource allocation. Discover all Port Call Optimisation solutions in the Portbase Marketplace.

Vessel Visit API

With the Vessel Visit API, you have the ability to receive and/or share data at vessel level, with data available from agents, terminals, harbour master and nautical service providers. Are you interested in which data is available in this API? Check out our table with the available data on vessel level.

The Vessel Visit API is available through the Portbase Marketplace, online platform that offers a wide range of digital solutions for the maritime and logistics sector.

This marketplace serves as a centralized hub where users can discover, evaluate, and acquire various APIs and services to enhance their operations.

Vessel Visit API
Portbase Marketplace
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