The new service between Stockholm Norvik Port and Port of Västerås will be operated by the German shipping company Reederie Deymann.
“Sweden’s national cargo transport strategy is based on the future vision of shipping playing a key role in creating modern, efficient and sustainable transport,” said Pia Berglund, National Coordinator for Domestic and Short Sea Shipping at the Swedish Transport Agency.
“The cargo shuttle service represents a major step in transitioning from reduced road haulage to more waterborne transport.”
Barge service
The EU inland waterway classed container barge Emelie Deymann into Lake Mälaren to operate services linking Stockholm Norvik Port to the Port of Västerås.
Stockholm Norvik Port is the container terminal located closest to the area that is by far Sweden’s largest consumer region. The approach is closer to the open sea than any other port on the Swedish east coast.
Introduction of this new inland shipping shuttle service provides the possibility to sustainably transport goods as close to their end destination as possible.
“We are extremely positive about inland waterway transport. This provides us with a unique opportunity for more efficient transport options in the Stockholm region, reduced congestion on our roads, and additional service offerings for our customers,” said Nicklas Ebersson, marketing manager cargo at Ports of Stockholm.
The EU classed vessel Emelie Deymann is shallow keeled, 110 metres in length and has the capacity to carry 208 teu.
Services are expected to commence before the end of May, with two sailings each week.
Stockholm Norvik Port is run by Hutchison Ports, one of the world’s largest container terminal operators with 53 ports in 27 countries.