Success story

ICO: Optimization of vehicle handling in the port of Antwerp and ZEebrugge

International Car Operators (ICO) is a leader in roll-on/roll-off logistics and has optimized its vehicle terminal operations in the ports of Antwerp and Zeebrugge with INFORM's software solution. This implementation has enabled ICO to achieve its ambitious goals by introducing a unified terminal operating system that increases efficiency, reduces costs and ensures a high-quality service for the handling of around 2.6 million vehicles annually.

 

The highlights

Comprehensive terminal operations

  • ICO operates two major terminals: Antwerp, which focuses on the import of Korean and Japanese cars, and Zeebrugge, the main European hub for the handling of finished vehicles.
  • The terminals handle around 7,000 vehicles per day, which requires precise logistics management to optimize parking, adjustments and delivery processes.

Integration and digitalization

  • Until 2012, ICO used different IT systems at each terminal and relied heavily on manual calculations, which impacted operational efficiency.
  • The implementation of INFORM's terminal operating system provided a unified, digital solution that integrates all logistics processes and provides real-time data and operational visibility.

Optimized YARD management

  • INFORM's intelligent yard management system determines the optimal parking space for each vehicle, minimizes travel routes and reduces the use of resources.
  • The system calculates ideal berthing positions for ships, optimizes the vehicle flow and increases the productivity of the terminal.
Thanks to INFORM's software solution, our efficiency in operational processes and costs are streamlined beyond our expectations.
Alain Guillemyn, General Manager Corporate ICO

Significant operational improvements

  • The use of Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) and real-time tracking has improved transparency, reduced manual workload and improved decision making.
  • The implementation has resulted in a 50% reduction in truck waiting times and a significant reduction in vehicle travel distances, reducing ICO's carbon footprint and operating costs.

Increased flexibility and customer satisfaction

  • The flexibility of INFORM software allows ICO to customize workflows and processes without extensive programming, supporting strategic growth.
  • ICO customers benefit from reduced waiting times and real-time transparency in vehicle processing, which improves overall service quality.

The advantages

  • Increased efficiency:  The overall efficiency of the terminal has increased to 99%
  • Reduced costs: The time a truck spends in the terminal is reduced by 50%

 

  • Environmental impact: Shorter driving distances for vehicles
  • Scalable solution: The flexibility of the system supports future growth and adaptation to changing market requirements

Conclusion: Revolution in vehicle logistics

ICO's partnership with INFORM has revolutionized terminal operations, achieving high efficiency, reduced costs and improved service quality. Through the use of advanced digital solutions, ICO has established itself as a leading provider in vehicle logistics, able to meet the growing demands of the global automotive industry.

Are you interested in more information or would you like to know how our solutions can help your company? Simply fill out the contact form below and we will get in touch with you as soon as possible. We look forward to hearing from you!

Lill Haase

Lill Haase

Product Marketing Manager

Lill Haase has been part of INFORM since 2023. She has been focusing on Vehicle Logistics ever since – turning complex topics into clear, accessible messages. In her work, she puts strong emphasis on customer relevance, clarity, and trust.

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