The Bertschi Group recently inaugurated its trimodal Antwerp Zomerweg Terminal (AZT).
Strategically located in Belgium, within the largest integrated chemical cluster in Europe, the terminal serves as a hub for imports and exports to and from overseas markets, reinforcing Bertschi’s position in one of the world’s most important logistics hotspots, the company reported.
Following a phased start-up over recent months, the official opening took place May 7, with over 100 invited guests in attendance. The event included speeches from Jacques Pitteloud, Swiss ambassador to Belgium, and Johan Klaps, alderman of the Port of Antwerp.
“We are proud to open this new terminal and expand our logistics capacity here in Antwerp,” Bertschi CEO Jan Arnet said in a news release. “With the modern infrastructure, we can offer our customers efficient and secure handling of liquid dangerous goods imports and exports, including storage and intermodal distribution."
With a total area of 645,835 sq. ft., the AZT terminal is optimized for the storage of dangerous goods (DG) and non-DGs in tank containers. The facility offers space for more than 2,500 TEUs (20-foot equivalent units), including 1,290 TEUs specifically for dangerous goods. In addition to storage, the terminal emphasizes an expanded trimodal transport offering, integrating rail, inland waterway, and trucking connections that improve intermodal logistics.
See also: Bertschi opens trimodal Antwerp terminal
The terminal is equipped with state-of-the-art safety infrastructure, including fire-resistant zones, redundant fire-fighting pumps, and a remotely operated gantry crane. These advanced safety measures ensure secure and efficient operations, Bertschi said.
The facility also features 60 tank container heating stations, allowing on-site heating of products. A further highlight is the option for bonded warehouse storage, offering added logistical flexibility.
With four handling tracks each measuring over 2,000 ft. in length, the terminal can accommodate full trains and ensure seamless goods distribution. Via inland waterways connected to the deep-sea port, imports can be transported directly to AZT, stored efficiently, and then redistributed via rail or truck to their final destination.
