Inform Software and PSA Antwerp launched the Integrated Terminal Scheduler (ITS) at Europa Terminal in March 2026, enabling hybrid operations during ongoing brownfield modernization under Project Emerald. The ITS dynamically optimizes move schedules for Automated Stacking Cranes (ASCs), Straddle Carriers (SCs), and Quay Cranes (QCs), supporting full service levels despite periodic offline reconfiguration. ASCs were newly introduced in summer 2024. The system prevents bottlenecks, reduces idle time, and enhances coordination across equipment types. QC integration is scheduled for later in 2026 with Dual Hoist Quay Cranes. Inform continues refining ITS algorithms using live operational data.
Inform Software and PSA Antwerp have announced the successful go-live of the Integrated Terminal Scheduler (ITS) at Europa Terminal in March 2026. As the terminal navigates a complex modernization project, the optimization software supports full operational capacity by dynamically managing the entire horizontal transport chain across Automated Stacking Cranes, Straddle Carriers, and Quay Cranes, demonstrating that transformation can be implemented without compromising service levels.
Technological and Operational Advantages
The ITS deployment delivers tangible operational benefits to its users by leveraging real-time optimization of transport processes across the entire terminal transport. The system dynamically synchronizes cranes and SCs to optimize yard movements and equipment scheduling, helping to prevent bottlenecks, minimize unproductive equipment movements, and reduce idle times through improved coordination across these equipment types.
Inform’s control room interface enables operational transparency and management by exception, giving the operational staff full visibility into and control over operations. Critically, the system supports hybrid operations, supporting optimized handling even when parts of the terminal are under refurbishment.
Next Steps and Future Development
The phased rollout began in March with SC and ASC optimization. QC integration will follow later in 2026, when the newly delivered Dual Hoist Quay Cranes are fully commissioned. Inform will continue refining ITS algorithms, leveraging operational data from current deployments to further enhance performance.
“The ongoing partnership between PSA Antwerp and Inform underscores both companies’ commitment to operational excellence and innovation in terminal automation,” emphasized Dr. Eva Savelsberg, SVP Terminal & Distribution Center Logistics Division at Inform, “It demonstrates our capacity to help leading terminals navigate transformation while remaining fully functional and efficient.”
“Our team specialized in container terminal optimization has worked intensively on this project,” said Alex Van Winckel, Director Strategic Relations and Sales, Terminal & Distribution Center Logistics at Inform.
“Managing such complexity while maintaining service continuity illustrates the impact of advanced optimization in complex environments.”
Source: logisticsbusiness.com
Compiled from international media by the SCI.AI editorial team.
