From 1st October 2025, the new digital clearance procedure for container imports will start in the German ports of Hamburg, Bremerhaven, and Wilhelmshaven. The existing PIN system will be replaced by the Secure Release Order (SRO). The aim is to increase transparency in the supply chain and security in import processes and provide effective protection against drug smuggling and organized crime.
Hapag-Lloyd was the first shipping company to switch its clearance process to the new solution in the 1st quarter of 2025, initiating the transition phase.
In the future, a digital collection right will apply, which clearly identifies who is authorized to collect a container at the port. This aims to prevent unauthorized collection and increase transparency in the supply chain.
> More information on the changes for companies and the associated costs: Digital Clearance Procedure Becomes Mandatory
Overview of the Step Plan
- Step 1 (from 1st October): Initially, shipping companies release containers PIN-free via the German Ports platform in Hamburg, Bremerhaven, and Wilhelmshaven.
- Step 2 (by 2nd November): The onboarding of forwarders, importers, and carriers will follow.
- Step 3 (from 3rd November): The procedure will become mandatory for all import participants, initially at two terminals (one each in Hamburg and either Bremerhaven or Wilhelmshaven). From 17th November, a phased introduction at all other terminals will follow.
According to German Ports, the specific order of terminal integration will be published on the website www.germanports.com.
Operators’ statements
“The introduction of the Secure Release Order marks a significant advancement in the digital handling of import processes in German ports. To ensure that all parties can prepare optimally, we have deliberately opted for a phased introduction,” explains Marco Molitor, Board of Directors of dbh Logistics IT AG.
DAKOSY Board Member Ulrich Wrage emphasizes:
“German ports are part of the critical infrastructure, which is why the focus is on a particularly reliable and secure approach.”
Objective: safety and resilience
According to the operators, the gradual introduction should give all participants – regardless of size or level of digitization – enough time to become familiar with the new procedure. At the same time, the transition is intended to strengthen the resilience of import processes and ensure more security and transparency in container traffic in the long term.
