The Port of Rotterdam has developed a hyper-intelligent container; Container 42. The container is fitted with sensors, measuring equipment and our SBS container lock. During a world trip, Container 42 has collected data in order to enable the port to undergo a digital transformation.
The container is measuring vibration, gradient, position, sound, air pollution, moisture and temperature. The SBS container lock secures all high-tech equipment in the container. The SBS security solution can also be used to check when, where and by whom the container is opened.
Container 42 for smarter port logistics
With the ambition to be the ‘smartest port’, Rotterdam is taking the lead in the digital transformation of port and logistics, and ‘Container 42’ is a metaphor for that transformation. A container can currently disappear from the radar for weeks on end between the moments of loading and unloading, and that is an outdated concept. With Container 42, the Port of Rotterdam wants to show all the options with smarter port logistics. It is the first time that shipping containers are being tracked this way from minute to minute. The data helps to provide an insight into the challenges in port logistics. This should ensure that containers aren’t lost as quickly and that less smuggling takes place. In the future, it should even be possible to move containers automatically using cranes and for them to complete their own customs documents.
“A smart lock at the inside of of Container 42 is a revolutionary concept in container logistics. While in transport, the container is now not at risk of being opened from the outside. This is an example of the kind of mind shift thinking cargo owners have been waiting for, I think.”
SBS container lock
Container 42 is fitted with our SBS containerlock. This advanced high-end lock fits in perfectly with the Port of Rotterdam’s ambition. The container lock can be used to check when, where and by whom the container is opened. The lock also makes it possible to personalise or block access to the container. With the help of geofencing, it is even possible to get the lock to open automatically at set locations, such as at customs.
Container transport security
VICE Media made a documentary about the abuse of containers for illegal trade. For this, they shot footage in the Port of Rotterdam, among other places. Container ships spend an average of half a day in port, making it impossible to check every container properly. This is why criminals regularly transport drugs, weapons and people illegally in containers. To combat this, it is important that ports and containers around the world are made more secure and smart. Container 42 is a good example of this.
