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As part of the ‘SuedLink’ project, a 700-kilometre high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission line from the North Sea to southern Germany, Rhenus Port Logistics Rhein-Neckar is taking over the logistics services for high-voltage cables.

Until they are finally installed, the cables will be stored in eight intermediate storage areas (ISA) along the cable corridor. Rhenus Port Logistics Rhein-Neckar handles the transshipment and intermediate storage of the cable drums, which weigh almost 100 tonnes each, at the newly converted ISA Heilbronn.

The 525 kV underground cables (HVDC cables) are delivered to the ISA Heilbronn and pose special challenges for transshipment. The cable drums weigh up to 99.5 tonnes per drum and must be handled with a high degree of precision. Rhenus uses a straddle carrier to handle the cable drums and store them in the intermediate storage area. The carrier is provided by the client, the leading cable producer NKT. Rhenus offers an extensive infrastructure to cope with the heavy loads caused by the heavy material.

‘We are pleased to be part of the groundbreaking SuedLink project and to be able to contribute our expertise to the energy transition in Germany by operating the interim storage facility in Heilbronn and handling the cable drums,’ says Anna Most, Managing Director of Rhenus Port Logistics Rhein-Neckar. The delivery of the drums to the installation sites is planned for 2026 to 2027. Rhenus will handle and store more than 100 cable drums and around 280 accessory parts in the project period from August 2024 to March 2027. A storage area of 10,100 square metres has been renovated to support the heavy loads for the project.

The SuedLink construction project is one of three major underground cable projects that are intended to contribute to a sustainable energy supply in Germany in the long term. The two parallel DC lines will enable the supply of ten million households. The route connects the windy north with the sunnier south and enables the transmission of renewable energies over a distance of 700 kilometres. If the generation of renewable energies is ever insufficient, the connection to the NordLink route ensures additional security of supply. This means that, if necessary, SuedLink can feed electricity from Norwegian hydropower, another renewable energy source, into the German power grid and ensure a stable transmission capacity of up to four gigawatts.

This is the second time that Rhenus has been involved in an infrastructure project for the German energy transition. Since 2021, the Rhenus Project Logistics unit has been involved in the construction of the HVDC ‘SuedOstLink’ line, which runs through eastern Germany.

The Central Oceans team in China assisted their clients with a new movement of Equipment for an Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) project on Bonny Island in Nigeria.

“We coordinated the logistics in China and ensured all was loaded securely for the long ocean voyage to Nigeria. The equipment will be part of an expansion to a six-train gas liquefaction plant complex that produces 22 million metric tons per annum of LNG.”

“We want to thank all involved in their support and look forward to the next movement.”

On this week’s Freight Friday, Bertling are sharing the successful delivery of a 234-ton transformer and accessories from Aliağa, Turkey, to Tabarjal, Saudi Arabia.

This was a complex job that required careful planning, strong teamwork, and seamless cross-border coordination.

Spanning a total volume of 2,000 CBM, the journey began in Turkey, where our team managed the transportation to the port of Jeddah. From there, the cargo traveled 1,700 km inland to its final destination in Tabarjal.

One of the biggest challenges was planning a safe route. Our team had to check bridge weight limits, make sure roads could handle the cargo, and get special permits for oversized and high-value cargo. Given the scale and weight of the transformer, multi-axle hydraulic trailers and vessel cranes were used to ensure safe handling and transport.

Getting through customs was another key step, with complex paperwork and multiple approvals needed before the cargo could leave the port. The final part of the journey was also tricky due to remote roads, tight spaces, and site access requiring careful coordination, along with police escorts and government clearance.

Despite these challenges, our teams in Turkey, Dubai, and KSA worked closely together to complete the transport smoothly and on time. A huge thanks to everyone involved for making this project a success.

Total Movements, a member of the Project Logistics Alliance representing Indonesia, has successfully completed the port-to-door transportation of 1,500 cubic meters of vital Oil & Gas equipment.

This shipment originated in Saudi Arabia and was delivered to its final destination in Singapore in a process that highlights Total Movements’ commitment to delivering reliable logistics solutions.

Team Total Movements’ scope of work included the entire logistics chain, from loading at the designated port in Saudi Arabia, shipping the cargo to Singapore, and delivering it by road to the project site.

Highlights of the operation included the following: The urgent delivery of Hammers was completed within the required timeframe, ensuring no compromise on quality or safety.

A direct sailing route from the Saudi port of loading to the port of discharge in Singapore optimized the logistics chain, effectively reducing potential delays.

The successful execution of this operation was made possible through meticulous planning and close coordination with all involved parties, from port authorities to on-ground transport teams.

This operation underscores Total Movements’ dedication to delivering time-critical, multimodal logistics solutions with precision, efficiency, and reliability. The shipment further solidifies the company’s position as a trusted partner in the logistics industry. Congratulations, team Total Movements.

Sarens is proud to announce the expansion of its Self-Propelled Modular Transporter (SPMT) fleet with the acquisition of over 100 axle lines from Cometto.

Sarens is proud to announce the expansion of its Self-Propelled Modular Transporter (SPMT) fleet with the acquisition of over 100 axle lines from Cometto. Part of the new units have already been delivered, marking a significant step in strengthening our heavy transport capabilities.

This fleet expansion reinforces Sarens’ commitment to operational excellence, ensuring we continue to deliver reliable, efficient heavy transport solutions for projects across industries, from renewable energy to large-scale civil infrastructure developments.

Stay tuned as these new units begin supporting projects globally.

Maxlog are new Project Cargo Network members in Turkiye.

Focused on project cargo solutions, their services cover sea, land, rail, air, and intermodal.

Mr. Cihan Kose introduces the company; “Maxlog provide high quality services and offer innovative and rapid solutions to logistical needs.”

“Project cargo shipments are the main scope of our company handled by our experienced and professional team. Regardless of the cargo’s dimensions, weight or type, we carefully plan all operational processes, arrangements, precautions, lashing & securing, and permits with special studies to ensure efficient and timely handling.”
“Handling project cargo shipments at all Turkish ports, we maintain close communications and relationships with shipowners, agencies and ports.”

Some recent projects reliably handled by Maxlog are outlined below.

A trafo shipment (plus accessories) weighing 171tn with dimensions of 8.50 x 3.65 x 4.80m. The trafo was loaded onto a 12-axle hydraulic trailer and moved by Maxlog from the factory in Gebze to Derince Port where they arranged port operations and loading to the vessel before shipping to North Europe.

A total of 36 large pipes each measuring 16m long with diameters of 1.2m and weighing 8tn. The shipment was loaded on time onto a chartered vessel at İskenderun Port and shipped to Greece. All operations were handled by the Maxlog team including pre-carriage, loading, lashing and chartering.

Storage tanks with various sizes and weights loaded onto a project cargo vessel at İskenderun Port. Maxlog were responsible for the port operations and loading onto the vessel with complete lashing and securing.

A transit shipment of a Schlumberger trailer transported from Kazakhstan with a tow trailer and shipped to Saudi Arabia by RORO vessel. The transit clearance was done urgently with very limited time until the vessel cut off. The Maxlog Port Team were at the port at all stages during arrival and shipping.

ABL – the global energy and marine consultants – has expanded its Australian operations to a new office in Brisbane on the country’s east coast.

ABL Australia’s latest offering complements its existing offices in Perth and Sydney. In addition to this, ABL Group’s renewable energy consultancy branch, OWC is present in Melbourne.

“We are thrilled to announce the opening of our office in Brisbane, expanding even further ABL’s reach across Australia’s East Coast. This strategic move allows us to better support our clients across the Oil & Gas, Shipping, Superyachts and Renewables sectors with localised expertise and enhanced services.” Jason Hannath, Country Manager to ABL in Australia.

The new office will provide a hub on Australia’s East Coast to deliver ABL’s full energy, marine and engineering consultancy offering. In particular, the office will deliver ABL’s expertise in asset integrity management and technical training for oil and gas, maritime and infrastructure sectors. The local team will also focus on the expansion of ABL’s comprehensive service portfolio in ports and harbours consulting, including port infrastructure feasibility for future renewable energy projects, and navigational risk assessments.

With the East Coast’s strong potential for offshore wind development, this strategic move will further provide a springboard to expand the wider ABL Group’s through-life advisory, consultancy and engineering offering to offshore wind.

“With our head office in Perth, this new location reinforces our commitment to driving sustainability in energy and oceans while strengthening relationships with our valued partners. We look forward to creating new opportunities, fostering innovation, and delivering impactful solutions from our Brisbane base. Exciting times ahead for ABL and our clients!” Continues Hannath

The new office is located at Level 5, 80 Ann Street, Brisbane, Queensland, 4000 Australia.

As well as OWC, ABL is joined in Australia by its sister companies, AGR – multidisciplined engineering consultants in drilling, wells and subsurface, and Longitude – ABL Group’s design and engineering arm.

Hannath is also responsible for overseeing the growth of ABL’s operations throughout Australasia, recently expanding to an office in New Zealand.

Rhenus has signed a new lease agreement with Garbe Industrial Real Estate Italy (“GARBE”), further expanding its presence at Giovi Logistics Park in Silvano Pietra (PV).

With the addition of a second 10,000 sqm A2 unit, Rhenus has doubled its footprint at the facility, bringing its total operational space to 20,000 sqm.

This new agreement strengthens the partnership between the global logistics provider Rhenus and GARBE, reinforcing its presence in Northern Italy, one of the most strategic regions for international logistics. The expansion comes just months after Rhenus became the first tenant of Giovi Logistics Park in 2024.

Developed by GARBE in collaboration with SFO Capital Partners and managed by Prelios SGR, the Giovi Logistics Park is one of the most advanced logistics hubs in the Lombardy region. Strategically located along the Milan-Genoa corridor, with direct access to the A7 motorway, it offers seamless connectivity to key commercial routes between Northern Italy and Mediterranean markets, as well as direct links to the Port of Genoa, one of the country’s major container hubs.

The facility spans a total of 83,000 sqm and is LEED Platinum certified, meeting the highest environmental and social standards. Designed to support modern supply chain demands, the park features modular, high-efficiency spaces. Each independent 10,000 sqm unit includes dedicated logistics areas, office spaces, loading zones, and over 300 car parking spots, along with 24 truck parking spaces.

The expansion of Rhenus at Giovi Logistics Park reflects its commitment to delivering cutting-edge logistics solutions with a focus on sustainability and operational efficiency, meeting the evolving needs of the global market.

“Our expansion at Giovi Logistics Park strengthens our role as a strategic logistics hub, supporting both domestic and international road transport. With prime access to major road networks, this location along the Milan-Genoa axis enhances connectivity to Ligurian ports and Malpensa Airport, ensuring smooth and efficient handling of goods by sea and air. Thanks to state-of-the-art infrastructure, we can provide our customers with integrated logistics solutions that enhance the competitiveness of their supply chains, both nationally and internationally. We are pleased to deepen our partnership with GARBE and invest in spaces that support our growth and the market’s evolving demands,” said Guglielmo Davide Tassone, Regional Manager Southeast Europe, Business Unit Road Freight at Rhenus.

“We are thrilled to continue our collaboration with Rhenus, a highly esteemed partner that recognizes the added value of Giovi Logistics Park,” said Mariangela Conte, Head of Asset Management at Garbe Industrial Real Estate Italy. “Securing an expansion lease with an existing tenant—who is already familiar with the site and the functionality of the space—validates the high construction quality and attractiveness of our logistics hub. We are continuing our leasing activities for the remaining three units with great confidence.”

Nicola Sajeva, Director Asset & Development Management at Prelios SGR, added: “This new lease with Rhenus, a global logistics leader, underscores Prelios SGR’s ability to offer tailored solutions for highly specialized and sophisticated tenants. The transaction aligns with the strategy of the Giove Real Estate Fund, which is currently focused on strengthening its income profile. We are proud to have supported GARBE in this important development initiative.”

Faustino Musicco, Head of Logistics, Last Mile and Data Centers Italy & Co–Head Industrial & Logistics Practice Group EMEA at Colliers, concluded: “We are extremely pleased to assist GARBE in this key project, which continues to set the standard for modern logistics in Italy. The expansion of Rhenus at Giovi Logistics Park is a clear testament to the quality and winning strategy behind this hub. Its strategic location and strong ESG credentials make it a top choice for major industry players.”

The exclusive leasing mandate for the project has been awarded to Dils and Colliers.

Cosmatos Shipping Services, part of Cosmatos Group and member to the Worldwide Project Consortium (WWPC) for Greece, handled the loading of two pieces of refinery equipment at Thessaloniki Port, Greece with final destination Antwerp, Belgium.

The two pieces, one Intermediate Flash Tank and one HSR Scrubber, weighed a total of 71 tons.

A company spokesperson explained: “Our scope included the chartering of the vessel, port operations in tandem and single lift including rigging, lashing and welding, as well a survey report and relevant port entry documentation. Another successful outcome for our Project Cargo Team, under strict delivery dates.”

A working meeting with a delegation of the Regulatory Authority for Ports (RAL) was held on Sunday, September 8, 2024, at the Administration Building of ThPA S.A.

The delegation of the Regulatory Authority for Ports, led by Mr. Apostolos Papapostolou, President of the Authority, included Mr. Nikolaos Attaliotis, Vice President, and the Authority’s rapporteurs, Dr. Panagiotis Agourogiannis, Geographer, and Panagiotis Koufos, Civil Engineer. They were welcomed by the Executive Chairman of the BoD of ThPA S.A., Thanos Liagkos, the Chief Executive Officer of ThPA S.A., Ioannis Tsaras, and executives of the company.

During the meeting, the delegation of the Regulatory Authority for Ports was informed about the progress of the implementation of the investment plan in terms of infrastructure, equipment, and services provided. In addition, the contribution of ThPA S.A. to the local and national economy was discussed, while issues of common interest were highlighted, such as current developments in the business and legislative environment, as well as the relations of mutual trust with the users and stakeholders of the Port.

Mr. Apostolos Papapostolou, President of the Regulatory Authority for Ports, commented: “Our regular communication with port authorities is necessary for strengthening the Greek port system. At ThPA S.A. we had the opportunity to be informed about the significant efforts being made for the development of the Port of Thessaloniki”.

Mr. Thanos Liagkos, Executive Chairman of the BoD of ThPA S.A., thanked the Regulatory Authority for Ports for the excellent cooperation and pointed out that ThPA S.A. continues to invest in initiatives that create added value for the economy and society.

WALLENIUS SOL is launching a new generation of cassettes, optimised for paper and forest products but also versatile enough to handle containers, project cargo, and other freight types.

WALLENIUS SOL EXPANDS its fleet of carriers with 100 new 40-foot cassettes, featuring significant enhancements based on insights from previous models. These improvements represent a step forward in both design and functionality.

“This is our third generation of carriers,” says Mathias H. Arnbert, Operations Manager, WALLENIUS SOL. “The first generation was introduced in 2020, specifically designed to meet the requirements of our customers in the paper industry in northern Sweden and Finland. The second generation followed just six months later in 2021. Now we’re finally launching the third generation, a developed and improved product based on the two previous generations, which is planned to be in service as from May this year.”

The big difference from earlier models is the reinforced design, specifically addressing areas that previously experienced the most wear and tear.

The third-generation cassettes are primarily intended for transporting goods between Northern Finland, Sweden, and the European continent, including the Untied Kingdom. These routes are vital for the paper industry, but the cassettes’ multi-purpose design means they can handle a wide variety of other cargo as well. With a payload capacity of 80 tons and robust construction, the third-generation carriers are expected to serve for decades.

“These cassettes are to last at least 50 years. We have integrated a maintenance plan to ensure the long-term durability, making the 50-year lifespan a realistic goal” says Axel Stenhammar, Equipment Manager, WALLENIUS SOL.

This type of investments aligns with WALLENIUS SOL’s roadmap, incorporating modern solutions along the way to meet the short-term and long-term sustainability targets.

“We believe in the market’s potential and are observing a clear trend indicating an increasing need for additional carriers. Being able to launch a third generation of a product we’re very proud of—and finding those small details to make it even better—is really exciting.”

JSL Global, member to the Worldwide Project Consortium (WWPC) for Qatar, engaged the team of their project division for transporting one Tesmec Chain Trencher, weighing 105 ton and with dimensions of 11.10 x 4.4 x 4.22 m from Jebel Ali via Dubai to Durban, South Africa.

This heavy machine is used for digging and is ideal for large-diameter pipelines work in hard and abrasive rock.

A special challenge was the sourcing of a direct sailing vessel via Europe to South Africa for such heavy piece why it was moved to Dubai as transshipment. While the machine was in transit the JSL team worked on a suitable RORO operator who could handle this heavy piece. Ramp capacity was a main challenge for most of the available RORO operators. This cargo was declined by many RORO operators due to the required ramp capacity and heavy weight of 105 ton as a single piece.

RORO options was the desired solution due to much higher freight level for a breakbulk vessel ex Dubai to Africa. The team of JSL Global managed to secure the desired transport solution and the cargo was loaded as planned.

Global energy and marine consultancy ABL has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Egyptian Holding Company for Airports and Air Navigation (EHCAAN) to realise carbon-reduction initiatives for Egypt’s aviation industry.

As part of the MoU, signed on the 3rd February this year, the parties commit to collaboration and technical support in the research and development (R&D) of methodologies for the decarbonisation, the introduction of carbon credits and other carbon-reduction initiatives. The parties will also support each other in the technology transfer, training, capacity building and other technical initiatives to support Egypt’s roadmap to reducing the Egyptian aviation industry’s carbon footprint.

ABL’s operations in Cairo, Egypt, and originally known and trading as LOC Egypt, will lead the future collaboration on this with EHCAAN.

Under the scope of work, ABL Egypt will support in exploring the technical and commercial feasibility of potential carbon-reduction technologies. These include, but are not limited to, the hybridisation and modernisation of process and equipment to integrate renewable energy resource and drive overall efficiencies, the integration of solar PV, and the potential of green hydrogen.

“Aviation is one of the most significant contributors to carbon dioxide emissions. We are honoured to partner with EHCAAN to explore potential methods, alternative fuels, and a roadmap for emissions reduction in its national aviation programme. Our track record in Egyptian energy transition combined with our global expertise across key technologies – including hydrogen and power-to-x, solar PV, emissions consulting, and more – make ABL a natural choice to support aviation on its road to net-zero.” Tamer Gamil, ABL’s Country Manager to Egypt.

ABL’s Egyptian operation has supported numerous energy transition projects of national interest, including a feasibility study into the transition of offshore oil and gas tanker operations to net-zero – a joint study with EGPC for COP27. To support this project, it draws on the technical expertise of the wider ABL Group, including the renewable energy and technical advisory expertise of OWC, and expertise in facilities design and engineering of the group’s design and engineering branch, Longitude.

ABL is part of the global consultancy ABL Group.

Hellmann Worldwide Logistics is pleased to announce the appointment of Lee I’Ons as the new Regional CEO for the IMEA region and member of the International Executive Board, effective April 1, 2025.

He succeeds Madhav Kurup, who has successfully led the region since joining Hellmann in 2008 and was recently promoted to the Global Management Board as the COO for Airfreight, Seafreight, and Contract Logistics.

A South African native, Lee I’Ons brings 30 years of logistics experience spanning Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. He began his career with a shipping agency in Durban before moving on to Kühne+Nagel, where he held various senior roles over the past 26 years, most recently serving as National Manager Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and President of Middle East, and Africa.

In his new role at Hellmann, I’Ons will focus on accelerating growth within the IMEA region by leveraging his extensive connection to the region, its people, and markets. Together with his team I´Ons will build on the strong regional development of recent years, during which the IMEA region – now home to 2,000 employees across 14 countries and six vertical joint ventures – remains a vital growth driver for Hellmann. The region includes some of the fastest-growing markets such as India, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, as well as emerging opportunities across Africa.

“We are delighted to welcome Lee on board to lead such a strategically important geographical cluster. IMEA has been a driving force of innovation and growth for Hellmann over the past decades. While we are already market leaders in sectors like Automotive and Pharma, Lee´s leadership will be fundamental in building on the strong foundation laid by Madhav and his team as we pursue our expansion plans,” says Jens Drewes, CEO Hellmann Worldwide Logistics.

Reflecting on his tenure, Madhav stated: “It has been a privilege to lead the IMEA region and work with such a talented team. I am confident that under Lee’s leadership, Hellmann will continue to innovate and expand its presence in this vital market and I look forward to supporting the company’s continued success in my role on the Global Management Board.”