With the help of Visy, the Finnish seaport has put in place a solution that weighs, measures, and photographs passenger cars & trucks at the West and Katajanokka harbours.

The system - consisting of scanner-based preliminary vehicle identification points, automatic barriers, and display panels guiding drivers to the right lane - identifies the vehicles using a camera and automatically checks their permits when they approach the check-in area.

All vehicles are measured, while lorries are also weighed and have their condition recorded.

The Port of Helsinki has received EU financial support for implementing the project, with the funds used for planning, placing the infrastructure, developing the system, and procuring & installing the required hardware.

"Particularly with heavy vehicles, it is also important to verify dimensions and weights. Accurate and up-to-date information improves the efficiency of both the port and shipping companies," Arto Satuli, Traffic Manager at the Port of Helsinki, underscored.

Jenni Anttila, responsible for heavy vehicle booking and operations at Eckerö Line, also commented, "We are still getting to grips with the system at the West Harbour, but I already see great potential in these types of new gate arrangements. The measurement data and smooth information exchange make it possible to streamline check-in tasks. More accurate measurement data also supports the balanced loading of ships, which in turn translates into more efficient fuel consumption, for example. In the end, it's all about cost efficiency."

Photo: Port of Helsinki