Episode 27: Ben van Scherpenzeel, ITPCO Chairman & Andreas van der Wurff, ITPCO & APM Terminals Subject matter expert | Port call optimization: setting the standard

In this episode of the Teqplay Vodcast, we sit down with Ben van Scherpenzeel (Chairman of the International Task Force Port Call Optimization, ITPCO) and Andreas van der Wurff (ITPCO & APM Terminals subject matter expert) to discuss how global standards are driving change in maritime port operations.

The conversation dives into the origins of ITPCO and the need for harmonized definitions and data exchange across ports worldwide. Ben and Andreas explain why something as fundamental as agreeing on terminals, berths, and arrival/departure times is essential to improve safety, reduce administrative burden, and enable seamless berth-to-berth navigation.

We also explore the broader impact of standardization on operational efficiency, fuel savings, and emissions reduction, and why collaboration between ports, terminals, shipping lines, and international bodies like IMO and IHO is key to making just-in-time port calls a reality.