INFORM Enables High-Performance Hybrid Operations at PSA Antwerp’s Europa Terminal
May 27, 2026
INFORM and PSA Antwerp announce the successful go-live of the Integrated Terminal Scheduler (ITS) at Europa Terminal in March 2026. As the terminal navigates a complex modernization project, the optimization software supports full operational capacity by dynamically managing the entire horizontal transport chain across Automated Stacking Cranes, Straddle Carriers, and Quay Cranes, demonstrating that transformation can be implemented without compromising service levels.
(Image source: PSA Antwerp).
The collaboration between INFORM and PSA Antwerp is part of the Europa Terminal modernization initiative under Project Emerald by PSA Antwerp and Port of Antwerp-Bruges. INFORM’s ITS was selected to optimize move schedules for Automated Stacking Cranes (ASCs), Straddle Carriers (SCs), and Quay Cranes (QCs) throughout all phases of the upgrade and beyond.
The project presents unique challenges: sections of the terminal are periodically taken offline for reconfiguration, requiring hybrid operations while maintaining full service levels. ASCs were completely new to the terminal, with the first installation in summer 2024. INFORM’s solution addresses the inherent complexity of this brownfield modernization while maintaining continuous operational efficiency.
“Our team specialized in container terminal optimization has worked intensively on this project,” said Alex Van Winckel, Director Strategic Relations and Sales, Terminal & Distribution Center Logistics at INFORM. “Managing such complexity while maintaining service continuity illustrates the impact of advanced optimization in complex environments.”
Technological and Operational Advantages
The ITS deployment delivers tangible operational benefits to its users by leveraging real-time optimization of transport processes across the entire terminal transport. The system dynamically synchronizes cranes and SCs to optimize yard movements and equipment scheduling, helping to prevent bottlenecks, minimize unproductive equipment movements, and reduce idle times through improved coordination across these equipment types.
INFORM’s control room interface enables operational transparency and management by exception, giving the operational staff full visibility into and control over operations. Critically, the system supports hybrid operations, supporting optimized handling even when parts of the terminal are under refurbishment.
Next Steps and Future Development
The phased rollout began in March 2026 with SC and ASC optimization. QC integration will follow later in 2026, when the newly delivered Dual Hoist Quay Cranes are fully commissioned. INFORM will continue refining ITS algorithms, leveraging operational data from current deployments to further enhance performance.
“The ongoing partnership between PSA Antwerp and INFORM underscores both companies’ commitment to operational excellence and innovation in terminal automation,” emphasized Dr. Eva Savelsberg, SVP Terminal & Distribution Center Logistics Division at INFORM, “It demonstrates our capacity to help leading terminals navigate transformation while remaining fully functional and efficient.”