Why do I need to submit a digital report to North Sea Port?

In 2024/2025, digital reporting of all shipping will become a requirement under EU law. Many vessel types are already required to make digital reports for safety reasons.

In order to make reporting as simple and easy as possible for the skipper, North Sea Port has decided to introduce digital reporting across the board for all inland navigation now. This will enable us to support our colleagues in optimising the management and safety of our port.

Frequently asked questions about ‘electronic reporting for inland shipping’

You can use various software options to submit electronic notifications. Available options include RiverGuide and BICS.

Which systems can I use to submit an electronic report?
You need to enter your voyage and cargo information before you leave North Sea Port, or before you enter the port area.

When do I need to make an electronic report?
You only need to digitally enter and submit all the details once for each new voyage – unless your situation changes during the voyage, in which case you can send an update with the amended information. For example, if anyone embarks or disembarks.

Do I have to keep updating my data?
In 2024/2025, digital reporting of all shipping will become a requirement under EU law. Many vessel types are already required to make digital reports for safety reasons.

Why do I need to submit a digital report to North Sea Port?
At the request of the inland navigation sector, North Sea Port is investing in generic reporting systems that are also used by other port and waterway authorities. This means that North Sea Port does not have its own separate reporting system for inland navigation. Simply use the system that best suits you.

Is there a different reporting system at each port?
Yes. In case of transit from outside Terneuzen to Evergem, an electronic report in IVS Next is sufficient. If you are coming from the south (e.g. Evergem), you can submit a report to Vlaamse Waterweg.

Do I need to submit an electronic report if I am just passing through?
North Sea Port receives reports when vessels enter the port area and berth at quays. In the event of an emergency, we use the information we have and pass it to the emergency services, for example regarding cargo and persons on board. If we do not have this data, it will reduce our ability to inform and respond adequately, and the emergency services will have to base their strategy on their own observations.

What happens if I do not submit an electronic report?
You can already create the electronic report when you are berthed. The report can then be sent as soon as internet is available again.

What should I do if there is no internet?
No, there are already many skippers who are required to make electronic reports. These skippers do not receive a discount either. North Sea Port is striving for maximum uniformity.

Do I get a discount because I have to do the registration myself?
No. VHF78 is completely closed. Traffic channel VHF11 in Ghent remains available, as does the port information channel VHF5. For Vlissingen, traffic channel VHF 9 is open.

Can I still use VHF78 for other questions?n?
You can find information that is necessary and useful during your voyage to and stay at North Sea Port on our website. If you cannot find the answer to your question, please send an email to barges@northseaport.com.

Other questions?

Why do I need to submit a digital report to North Sea Port?

Frequently asked questions about ‘electronic reporting for inland shipping’

Which systems can I use to submit an electronic report?

When do I need to make an electronic report?

Do I have to keep updating my data?

Why do I need to submit a digital report to North Sea Port?

Is there a different reporting system at each port?

Do I need to submit an electronic report if I am just passing through?

What happens if I do not submit an electronic report?

What should I do if there is no internet?

Do I get a discount because I have to do the registration myself?

Can I still use VHF78 for other questions?n?

Other questions?