Each month, around 150 containers are now moved overnight, traffic that was previously handled during the day. The trucks depart from Volvo Trucks’ distribution centre in Ghent and deliver to deep-sea terminals at the port, returning with empty containers. Charging takes place at the Milence network facility in Ketenis during drivers’ rest periods, helping to streamline operations.
The move forms part of a broader push towards night logistics at the Port of Antwerp, where approximately 12% of total truck transport now occurs between 18:00 and 06:00. Industry and port authorities hope to further expand night-time volumes, though challenges remain.
According to DFDS, obstacles include limited lock availability at night and the need for shorter turnaround times at terminals to increase shipment frequency. The company also cites the high upfront cost of electric trucks as a barrier to faster rollout, despite the environmental benefits.
Tia Meyvis of Alfaport Voka, which represents the Antwerp port business community, said the shift to night operations contributes to relieving traffic congestion.
“Night logistics offers a tangible solution to the chronic congestion problem in and around the port. That’s why we have made it a key objective in our Routeplan 2030, our economic vision for the future of the Antwerp-Waasland region,” she stated.
The night logistics initiative was originally launched in 2017 by the Antwerp port community and has gained renewed momentum in recent months. In 2024, Alfaport Voka and the Port of Antwerp-Bruges reactivated a dedicated working group, bringing together shippers, carriers, terminals, and other stakeholders to coordinate efforts and address logistical constraints.
