IRPT gains new ideas and partnerships at European Summit

Inland Rivers, Ports & Terminals Inc. (IRPT) recently completed the first phase of its European Summit in The Hague, Netherlands, where members examined infrastructure, operational practices, technology, and freight transportation strategies used throughout the European Union’s inland supply chain network.

The summit brought together representatives from inland ports, terminals, transportation providers, and economic development organizations to visit ports, logistics centers, multimodal transportation facilities, and other freight hubs. Participants also met with European industry stakeholders to discuss common challenges and opportunities facing inland waterway transportation systems.

According to IRPT, one of the key takeaways from the mission was the extent to which concepts currently being explored in the United States—including cargo tracking technologies, terminal collaboration, integrated transportation planning, digitalization, sustainability initiatives, and data sharing—have already been implemented in parts of Europe.

Discussions throughout the summit also focused on the role of data in infrastructure planning, cargo development, operational decision-making, and environmental performance. Participants heard from public- and private-sector stakeholders about how information is used to support investment decisions and improve supply chain efficiency.

Facility tours and technical exchanges highlighted approaches to infrastructure investment, workforce development, technology adoption, and regional collaboration. Participants also examined projects that evolved from early-stage concepts into larger transportation and logistics initiatives.

The second phase of the mission will take place during Breakbulk Europe, where IRPT members will meet with shippers, freight forwarders, logistics providers, and project cargo stakeholders from around the world.