Port of Rotterdam Trials Quantum Digital Twins to Orchestrate Container Flow

The Port of Rotterdam, Europe’s largest and most technologically advanced seaport, has launched a pioneering pilot program designed to transform cargo management using quantum-powered digital twins—virtual replicas of port operations enhanced by quantum computing. This initiative aims to orchestrate container flows with unprecedented precision to tackle rising challenges from congestion, unpredictable weather, and surging trade volumes.

Covering 42 kilometers of terminals and logistics hubs, Rotterdam handles more than 14 million TEUs annually. Despite its advanced infrastructure, the port faces complex operational pressures common to global trade hubs. To address this, Rotterdam partnered with Delft University of Technology, IBM Europe, and the PortXL innovation accelerator to deploy simulation technology that merges classical artificial intelligence with quantum optimization.

Digital twins have long helped industries simulate and test operations virtually before applying changes. However, modeling thousands of interacting elements—including ships, cranes, trucks, trains, and weather conditions—pushes classical computing to its limits. Quantum computing changes the game by exploiting superposition and entanglement, allowing simultaneous evaluation of vast scenarios. This quantum enhancement enables near-instantaneous optimization in dynamic environments.

“Classical systems are incredibly capable but reach a ceiling with highly chaotic systems,” explained Dr. Hans Verstegen, Head of Innovation at the Port of Rotterdam Authority. “Quantum computing helps us break through that ceiling, delivering real-time adaptive forecasts as new data arrives.”

The pilot program focuses on optimizing quay crane scheduling and coordinating intermodal container transfers—two critical areas prone to inefficiencies. Crane idle times, often due to mismatched vessel arrivals and labor shifts, are costly. Similarly, delays in container movement between ships, rail, barges, and trucks can cascade, impacting the entire supply chain.

By integrating live AIS vessel tracking, satellite weather feeds, and historical port data, the quantum-enhanced digital twin generates rolling 48-hour forecasts, enabling faster, more precise operational decisions. Initial outcomes include a 14% reduction in crane idle time, a 21% improvement in throughput forecasts, and quicker equipment reallocation during disruptions.

Beyond efficiency, these gains contribute to sustainability goals. Reduced idle times and optimized container handling are estimated to cut CO₂ emissions by 9%, advancing the port’s commitment to the European Green Deal and its ambition for net-zero emissions by 2050.

Rotterdam’s leadership in quantum logistics sets a precedent for other European ports, including Hamburg, Antwerp, and Barcelona, which are exploring similar technologies. Rotterdam’s early investments in data integration, AI, and quantum partnerships give it a competitive edge.

Looking forward, the port plans to scale quantum applications to yard management, customs processing, and hinterland rail connections along the Rhine corridor. Importantly, the technology is designed to support human expertise rather than replace it. “It gives us a map of possibilities,” said Ingrid de Vries, senior quay operations manager.

Globally, ports such as Singapore, Shanghai, and Los Angeles stand to benefit from these advances. Quantum-powered forecasting can also provide resilience against sudden disruptions like the Suez Canal blockage or pandemic shutdowns.

Nevertheless, challenges remain. Quantum hardware is expensive and limited in capacity, system integration is complex, and cybersecurity must be rigorously maintained. Rotterdam has adopted quantum-safe encryption to secure its pilot operations.

In conclusion, the Port of Rotterdam’s quantum digital twin initiative may redefine port management worldwide, making quantum technologies as indispensable as cranes and ships. If successful, this project could usher in a new era of quantum-enhanced logistics, driving smarter, faster, and greener global trade.