In 2020, Routescanner was launched as an initiative by the Port of Rotterdam to offer greater transparency into global container flows. Just a few years later, the platform has grown into a globally connected logistics tool used by cargo owners, freight forwarders and ports.

As Routescanner officially joins the Rotterdam Port Promotion Council (RPPC), RPPC took the opportunity to speak with our Commercial Director, Ruud van Dijk, to reflect on our mission, evolution and what’s next.

A global platform for planning container transport

Routescanner is fully focused on container transport and provides the insights shippers and logistics partners need to make better routing decisions. The platform integrates all transport modes including deep sea, inland waterway, rail and road into one single, data-driven interface. 

“Our ambition is simple,” says Ruud van Dijk, Chief Commercial Officer at Routescanner. “For every container in the world, Routescanner should be able to identify the optimal route based on what matters most to each user.”

What does Routescanner offer logistics professionals?

At the core of the platform is the ability to compare container routes based on three essential datapoints: transit time, service reliability and CO₂ emissions. Users can also filter by carriers, ports or transshipment hubs to tailor results to their operational needs. The goal is to help logistics professionals make smarter, faster and more sustainable decisions.

Routescanner currently includes data from over 280 transport partners, covering more than 1,300 destinations worldwide.

Who uses Routescanner, and in what ways?

The platform is used by ports, freight forwarders and cargo owners. Ports embed Routescanner in their websites so visitors can plan container routes to and from the terminal. Freight forwarders and shippers use the platform to identify efficient, lower-emission routes that meet customer demands.

Regardless of the user group, Routescanner helps reduce planning time, increase routing transparency and deliver better service to end customers.

Is the platform easy to use?

Yes, usability is a central part of Routescanner’s design. The platform offers visual clarity and intuitive navigation, even when comparing complex multimodal routes. It was built to make container logistics accessible without compromising on depth. For advanced users, Routescanner is also available via API for seamless integration into internal systems or digital portals.

Why is pricing data not yet included?

While the platform already includes insights on transit time, reliability and CO₂ emissions, transport pricing is not yet part of the experience. That will soon change. “We’re working to include pricing data as well,” says Ruud. “Our goal is to bring all decision-critical information together in one place: time, reliability, emissions and cost.”

What’s next for Routescanner?

The platform already offers full inland network coverage across Europe and connects with major operators in the United States. The next strategic step is expansion across Asia to complete global intermodal coverage.

“The more complete our global reach becomes, the more value we can offer,” Ruud explains.
“There are an estimated 60 million containers in circulation worldwide. We believe each one deserves a better, smarter route.”

About the Rotterdam Port Promotion Council (RPPC)

Founded in 1933, RPPC is a public-private network organization that promotes the Port of Rotterdam and strengthens international trade relations. With over 200 member companies, RPPC organizes collective trade fair participation, promotion missions and networking events. It helps connect the Rotterdam logistics cluster with markets around the world.

By joining RPPC, Routescanner becomes part of a dynamic and collaborative logistics community that values innovation, connection and international growth.

This article is based on an interview originally published by the Rotterdam Port Promotion Council (RPPC). Read the original Dutch article here.