Hutchison Ports ECT Rotterdam will introduce two new rates from January 1, 2024 to introduce for road transport at the ECT Delta and Euromax terminals. From that date, trucks will be charged a peak and climate surcharge.

Spread allowance

In a letter to carriers, ECT emphasizes that the Delta and Euromax terminals have been open 24 hours a day for years, but that this option is not used sufficiently. This causes long traffic jams at the terminals at peak times. The ECT wants to introduce a dispersal surcharge for this, which aims to change this. 

The spreading rate is a kind of peak surcharge that applies between 05:00 AM and 19:00 PM on weekdays. Trucks then pay €13,50 per visit. If trucks collect containers outside these times, compensation applies, a spreading premium of 4,50 euros. The drivers are not paid that money, but it counts as a discount.

Climate rate

In addition, a Climate Rate will be introduced, a surcharge of €2,50 per diesel truck. According to ECT, this surcharge is necessary due to Dutch and European regulations that oblige the company to make its own processes climate neutral as quickly as possible. 

ECT also emphasizes that reducing nitrogen emissions at the terminals is essential for further development of the terminals. Visiting modes contribute to the terminal's nitrogen emissions. Zero-emission trucks are exempt from the climate surcharge.

Carriers

With the current market conditions, it is very important to note that it is virtually impossible for carriers to pick up and/or drop off containers outside peak times. The available loading and unloading locations are regularly limited to opening hours from 08:00 AM to 17:00 PM. Even considering night-time transports, drivers come into conflict with their mandatory driving and rest times. In addition, the shortage of drivers already plays a significant role. 

Since 2020, a specific access requirement has also been in force for trucks in certain areas, including the Maasvlakte. These requirements require an emission class of 6 or higher (Euro VI). This led to significant investments in new vehicles by many companies at the time. As a result, a large part of the fleets now comply with the Euro VI standard. Nevertheless, Zero-Emission trucks currently remain unfeasible for many parties due to the high purchase costs and limited accessibility (range). 

More information New road transport rates | ECT Hutchison Ports