EUROGATE and ICT Logistics shape the future of terminal automation

EUROGATE and ICT Logistics have entered into a strategic cooperation to design and implement a next-generation Equipment Control System (ECS) based on ICT Logistics’ SmartECS solution. This solution will integrate closely with EUROGATE’s Terminal Operating System and scheduler, operateMyBox (oMb), and will orchestrate automated equipment from multiple vendors in a fully vendor-independent environment.

SmartECS as the central orchestration platform
SmartECS is a solution framework designed to orchestrate and optimize processes and equipment at container terminals. SmartECS acts as a central platform that harmonizes communication between different equipment types and vendors, including Ship-to-Shore cranes (STS), Automated Stacking Cranes (ASC), and Automated Terminal Trucks (ATT). ATT represents a key innovation within the project and offers significant potential to enable autonomous horizontal transport for EUROGATE’s container terminals in Germany and the wider industry.

Proven vendor-independent automation approach
EUROGATE selected ICT Logistics for its proven ability to deliver an open and interoperable ECS platform capable of interfacing with both commercial off-the-shelf and home-grown planning and scheduling systems, as well as a wide range of automated equipment. SmartECS forms the critical link between planning systems such as oMb and the equipment operating in the yard, ensuring reliable 24/7 operations. JP Broekgaarden, Business Development Executive of ICT Logistics explains: “SmartECS enables innovation between equipment suppliers and terminal operators by providing a robust, vendor-independent bridge between automated equipment and the Terminal Operating System (TOS).”

Joint development through close collaboration
This cooperation is built on equality and close collaboration, as EUROGATE and ICT Logistics jointly shape the solution. ICT Logistics contributes extensive knowledge and experience in container terminal automation and ECS systems, while EUROGATE brings deep operational expertise. Michael Blach, Chairman of the Group Management Board, EUROGATE says “This cooperation reflects our long-term commitment to open and scalable terminal technology.” Joseph Collins, Group Head of Automation, EUROGATE adds: “Successful terminal automation depends on close coordination between operations, automation systems, and software platforms. ICT Logistics’ collaborative approach with EUROGATE’s Automation and IT teams helps reduce integration complexity and supports scalable, vendor-independent operations”.

Together, the partners develop a new terminal concept in which ATT takes responsibility for horizontal transport, supporting flexible, scalable, and future-proof terminal operations.

SmartECS is developed independently by ICT Logistics as a set of core components that can be extended with customer-specific functionality. ICT Logistics is responsible for the full product lifecycle, from requirements and system architecture through development, testing, and maintenance. The platform is designed for high availability and performance, runs on Kubernetes, and uses industry-standard interfaces based on TIC4.0 and MQTT, with the flexibility to translate vendor-specific protocols where required.
Karim Henkens, CEO ICT Group: “This cooperation demonstrates how deep domain expertise and advanced software engineering can help terminal operators achieve reliable, future-ready operations. With SmartECS, we provide the foundation for collaboration, expandable integration and long-term innovation across the terminal ecosystem.”

This cooperation underscores the shared ambition of ICT Logistics and EUROGATE to advance innovation in automated container terminals through open, scalable, and vendor-independent solutions.