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Digital connected infrastructure - IoT & 5G

Internet of Things (IoT) sensors collect real-time data, while private 5G networks enable fast and reliable communication.

DigitalisationMarine shippingInland shippingPort/terminalTrainsTrucks

Introduction

Digital connected infrastructure helps ports connect physical operations with digital systems. Internet of Things (IoT) sensors collect real-time data from equipment, modalities and the port ecosystem, while private 5G networks enable fast and reliable communication. Together, they improve visibility across port operations and support applications such as asset tracking, remote control, predictive maintenance and automation. This factsheet relates to two other factsheets on digital connected infrastructure, e.g. the others are “PCS, IDS and Digital Twin” and “AI-Driven Analytics and Monitoring Platforms”. Their relationship is visualized in the figure above.

Value proposition

  • Reliable information

  • Creates a foundation for collecting and transmitting data

  • Better operational visibility

Ports depend on timely and reliable information about what is happening across their operations. However, many assets, modalities and processes are not yet connected or visible in real time. IoT sensors and private 5G networks can provide a foundation for collecting and transmitting data from across the port. This can contribute to better operational visibility and may support faster decision-making, asset tracking, remote operations, predictive maintenance and automation.

Port applicability

IoT sensor networks can be useful for ports of all sizes. However, the way they are introduced will depend on the port’s needs, existing infrastructure and level of digital maturity. Large container and multipurpose ports may benefit more quickly because they manage many assets, vehicles and complex operations. Smaller and inland ports can start with selected applications, such as tracking equipment or monitoring environmental conditions, and expand gradually. Private 5G networks may be especially useful where a stable network connection, fast communication or support for many connected devices is needed. These technologies can be relevant for all ports, regardless their governance. However, who invests in, operates and secures the network in the port, and who can access the data, may differ from port to port.

Groups of innovations

  • IoT sensor networks

    IoT sensor networks collect real-time data from port assets, trucks, equipment and the surrounding environment. They can support applications such as asset tracking, equipment condition monitoring, environmental monitoring and predictive maintenance. Successful implementation may require integration with existing port digital systems, reliable data handling, and clear rules for cybersecurity and data access.

  • 5G connectivity

    5G networks can provide fast, stable and secure connectivity for sensors, vehicles and equipment across the port area. They may be particularly valuable where many devices need to be connected, where continuous communication is important, or where remote control and automated operations are planned. Their deployment may require investment in network infrastructure, cybersecurity and integration with existing communication systems.

Impact

Impact level per aspect
ImpactLevelRemark
GHG emissionsMedium impact
Enables real-time energy and GHG monitoring, supporting the identification of emission sources and indirectly contributing to emission reduction.
Digital port ecosystemLarge impact
Core infrastructure layer supporting real-time data collection, connectivity and many advanced digital port services.
Level of automationLarge impact
5G and IoT can support remote control, autonomous vehicles, smart gate operations and connected equipment.
Operational efficiencyLarge impact
Real-time visibility can help reduce dwell times, congestion and resource waste, while improving asset and equipment coordination.
International cooperationLimited impact
Shared real-time data can support coordination and information exchange between port departments and operators.
SafetyMedium impact
Real-time monitoring, location tracking and reliable communication can support earlier hazard detection, remote surveillance and safer port operations.
Human capitalMedium impact
Requires new skills in sensor management, network operation, cybersecurity and data handling, while creating new digital operations roles.

Port characteristics

Successful implementation requires a basic level of digital readiness, including suitable network infrastructure, access to investment and the ability to integrate new sensors and connectivity solutions with existing port systems. Highly automated ports or ports with existing private network infrastructure may be better positioned for faster deployment. Ports with older terminal systems, limited connectivity or unclear responsibilities between stakeholders may require more time. Organisational readiness, particularly in cybersecurity, technical skills and system management, can be as important as the technology itself.

Barriers and enablers

Enablers

  • Standards & regulationEnabler

    EU regulatory mandates, including AFIR and FuelEU Maritime, create obligations to decarbonize. Reporting energy and emissions data becomes more easy through connected sensors and digital infrastructure. GDPR can be a barrier in terms of data sharing.

  • Stakeholder interactionEnabler

    Early and continuous stakeholder involvement — in defining use cases, technical requirements, responsibilities and access to operational data — is an important success factor.

  • DirectionalityEnabler

    Roadmap-driven, "think big, start small" development — beginning with high-value pilots (e.g. single terminal IoT deployment or a selected 5G use case) — allows incremental scaling without requiring full-ecosystem commitment upfront.

Barriers

  • EconomicBarrier

    High upfront investment for IoT sensors, 5G infrastructure and system integration, combined with ongoing operation and maintenance costs and an unclear or long-horizon ROI — particularly for smaller ports.

  • KnowledgeBarrier

    Limited knowledge of IoT solutions, 5G networks and their practical applications across port communities — particularly in smaller or less digitally mature ports — can slow adoption.

  • TechnologyBarrier

    Older terminal and operational systems can be difficult to connect with modern IoT sensors and 5G networks. This may require system upgrades, additional interfaces and technical support.

  • InfrastructureBarrier

    Existing physical network infrastructure (fiber, Wi-Fi, TETRA) is often insufficient for dense IoT deployments; private 5G investment is needed but capacity is limited by spectrum availability.

How to implement?

  1. Step 1

    Asess & align

    Port authority, telecom regulator

  2. Step 2

    Pilot deployment

    Terminal operators, IoT integrators

  3. Step 3

    Network rollout

    5G providers, IT/OT vendors, port authority

  4. Step 4

    Scale & automate

    All ecosystem actors

Timeline

The arrow below represents the expected development of the TRL of IoT & 5G.
* Technical Readiness Level

What should a port do in the next 3 years?

Ports do not need to wait for full ecosystem readiness to start. In the short term, ports can pilot IoT sensor deployment on a single terminal or asset category (e.g. reefer monitoring, crane condition sensors) to build internal know-how before scaling further. Ports with existing fiber or Wi-Fi infrastructure can begin integrating sensor data into current operational systems, while those lacking this foundation can prioritise a phased upgrade plan. Where private 5G is not yet feasible, ports can rely on existing 4G/LTE or hybrid connectivity to test priority use cases such as asset tracking or remote monitoring, migrating to 5G once demand and investment case are clearer. In parallel, ports can start addressing organisational readiness, such as clarifying data governance, cybersecurity responsibilities and stakeholder roles, so that technical deployment is not delayed by unresolved institutional questions.

Investment overview

Investment needs vary by scope and existing infrastructure. IoT sensor networks typically require moderate upfront investment (sensors, gateways, integration with port systems) and can be scaled incrementally, making them accessible to smaller or less digitally mature ports. Private 5G networks demand substantially higher capital investment, covering spectrum access, network infrastructure and integration, and are more easily justified where device density or reliability requirements are high. Ongoing costs for both include operations, maintenance and cybersecurity. Given the unclear or long-horizon ROI for smaller ports, a "think big, start small" approach (beginning with high-value pilots before committing to full-scale rollout) can reduce financial risk while building the evidence base for larger investment decisions.

Stakeholder overview

Below is an overview of the required involved stakeholders.
Blue stakeholders are essential, white stakeholders are enabling

Knowledge base