What is Portbase?   

Portbase is an innovative port system serving the largest ports in the Netherlands, including Rotterdam and Amsterdam. It acts as a central information exchange platform, connecting all parties involved in the logistics chain - from carriers, to freight forwarders, to port and customs authorities.   

Key features of the Portbase system   

Portbase offers a range of services to streamline port operations:   

Pre-notification:  

• electronic notification of goods before arrival at the port,  

• automated verification of document compliance,  

• acceleration of the clearance process at the terminal .  

Cargo Release:

• digital management of the container release process   

• automation of charges and fees checks   

• electronic exchange of transport documents   

Import Status:  

• tracking the current status of a container   

• information on planned customs inspections   

• notifications of goods ready for collection   

Export Declaration:  

• digital submission of export declarations   

• automatic confirmation of goods leaving,  

• monitoring the status of the export declaration.  
    

Benefits of using the Portbase system  

Using the Portbase platform provides measurable benefits:   

• faster customs and port clearance,  

• reduction of errors in documentation,  

• lower administrative costs,  

• improvement of information flow among all participants in the process,  

• shorter waiting times in the port,  

• the ability to track shipments in real-time.  
  
  

Portbase after Brexit   

After the United Kingdom left the European Union, the Portbase system gained importance:   

• all goods transported between the Netherlands and the UK require customs clearance   

• pre-notification in the Portbase system has become mandatory   

• failure to register in the system may result in a refusal of entry to the port   
  
    

What do you need to make a declaration in the Portbase system?

Export from the Netherlands to the United Kingdom  
When creating a declaration, five basic pieces of information must be provided:  

1. MRN number  
2. Type of customs document  
3. Booking number  
4. Registration number of the means of transport  
5. Gross weight  
  
Import from the United Kingdom to the Netherlands  
When creating a declaration, four basic pieces of information must be provided:

1. Terminal name  
2. Customs declaration number (e.g. MRN)  
3. Type of customs document   
4. For container terminals: container number, and for ferry terminals: shipment identifier.  

The Portbase system is a key element in the handling of maritime transport through Dutch ports. Its correct utilization allows for significant streamlining of logistical processes and reduction of goods clearance time.