The right Portbase service helps your business move forward
Portbase has been requested by the parties that collaborate in the Secure Chain to facilitate the secure and reliable release and collection of import containers in the port of Rotterdam through the Port Community System. Shippers and forwarders that switch to this new operational approach can choose between the Portbase services Cargo Controller and Cargo Release Manager. But which of the two is the right option for your specific challenges?
Both Cargo Controller and Cargo Release Manager do for the shipper and forwarder what it should do for the Secure Chain: you receive the release – or, in other words, the collection authorisation – for an import container in a secure, digital manner and next pass this on to the subsequent link in the chain. But Cargo Controller offers much more. It gives your company true insight into the cargo that is under your care. You are fully informed at all times. Cargo Controller shows you the expected and actual arrival times of your container at the port, real-time discharge information, all relevant customs data, the time of departure from the terminal and much more. This allows you to optimally plan ahead for every container that you are expecting. Receiving the release for the Secure Chain is effectively a bonus.
Proven added value Cargo Controller
In recent years, Cargo Controller has already proven itself in practice for hundreds of companies. From the moment the import manifest is released until the time the container departs the terminal, they benefit 24/7 from having full information at their disposal. For any party receiving – or handling – multiple containers every week, Cargo Controller truly adds value at limited costs for participation. Furthermore, an API interface makes it possible to automatically add all milestones and B/L data to your dossiers.
Cargo Release Manager alternative solution
So when should you still opt for Cargo Release Manager to participate in the Secure Chain? This service was specifically developed by Portbase to make participation in the Secure Chain accessible to smaller parties. It is a practical solution for companies for which Cargo Controller has no real added value. Cargo Release Manager is truly a basic service: it only allows users to securely receive and pass on releases via the web. Nothing more and nothing less. It does not provide additional information and working ahead is not possible. Participation in Cargo Release Manager is completely free of charge though.
How to participate
Not yet a Portbase customer? Whether you opt for Cargo Controller or Cargo Release Manager: prior to participation, you must first create an account at IAMconnected. This may take some time, but checks built into the registration procedure ensure that only bona fide companies have access to the Port Community System. After that, you use your new IAMconnected account to register with Portbase for either Cargo Controller or Cargo Release Manager.
Want to learn more about the differences between Cargo Controller and Cargo Release Manager before you make your decision? Then click here.
