Zeebrugge, Belgium – November 04, 2025
Construction of Europe’s first fully automated multi-storage garage will soon begin at ICO in the port of Zeebrugge. This innovative project is the result of a unique collaboration between three leading parties: ICO, stow Group, and Ceratec.
The new multi-storage garage will be built on a 5-hectare site and will accommodate approximately 10,000 vehicles. This expansion will allow ICO to increase its annual processing capacity from 2.5 million to 3 million vehicles.
What makes this project unique is the complete automation of the parking system. A total of 10 automatic cranes will be used to efficiently move vehicles within the rack systems. The decision to use two separate buildings and a spread-out crane structure was made deliberately to ensure the safety of the fire services at all times.
stow Group is responsible for the entire steel construction of the garage, including the innovative rack system in which vehicles are stored. Ceratec, in turn, provides the automation of this rack system via VIN recognition, allowing vehicles to be automatically inserted into and removed from the system. Additionally, integration with ICO’s Terminal Operating System (TOS) is planned, enabling all movements and processes to be monitored and controlled in real-time. “In collaboration with the ICO team, we developed a groundbreaking solution that will set the standard for similar projects in the future,” said Philip De Bruyn, Executive Chairman at Ceratec. “We are proud of our role in this innovative project, which is the result of our unique and multidisciplinary engineering skills.”
“With this project, we are taking an important step in the further technological development of our terminal,” says Alain Guillemyn, Managing Director at ICO. “By investing in advanced automation, we not only strengthen our operational efficiency but also confirm our role as a logistics hub for vehicles in Europe. This way, we keep Zeebrugge and ICO continuously attractive for our international partners and contribute to the economic growth of the region.”
The project contributes to increased operational efficiency and reduces vehicle movements, which helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, it promotes a more sustainable and efficient use of available port space by making optimal use of existing sites. This is perfectly in line with ICO’s sustainability objectives and strengthens Zeebrugge’s position as a strategic hub for the European car market.
The completion of the garage is expected in the second half of 2027, after which the system will be operational and set a new standard in vehicle logistics.
Any further questions? Please contact Niek Provoost
niek.provoost@icoterminals.com
+32 473 44 91 10
About ICO
ICO Terminals is a global hub in the handling and storage of Roll-on/Roll-off cargo. Our services go beyond the efficient loading and unloading of cars, general cargo, and breakbulk. We also offer vehicle processing and conversions, ship agency services, and complete handling of all customs formalities.
Founded in 1984, ICO operates top-notch terminals in Zeebrugge and Antwerp, handling over 2 million vehicles annually. Thanks to its strategic location at the heart of Europe’s automotive industry, ICO has become a key link in the logistics chains of the world’s leading car brands and RoRo shipping lines.
ICO stands out by offering car manufacturers and dealers a true end-to-end service. Acting as a one-stop shop, the company takes care of every step, from unloading and processing to final transport. As a subsidiary of Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK), one of the world’s foremost transportation companies, ICO employs more than 1,000 dedicated professionals who ensure that every shipment moves seamlessly from factory to final delivery.
About stow Group
stow Group is one of the world’s leading providers of racking and automated storage solutions. The core activity is the development, production, and installation of high-quality systems and solutions for warehouse activities. The company employs more than 2,200 people worldwide. With an annual turnover of over €1 billion, stow Group has a global distribution network and extensive manufacturing presence, including a production facility in Georgia, USA. stow Group has two independent brands under its umbrella: stow and Movu Robotics, both headquartered in Belgium.
www.stow-group.com
www.movu-robotics.com
About Ceratec
Ceratec is a Belgian technology and engineering group that has been a family business since its foundation in 1986. With over 500 employees and a turnover of 160 million euros, Ceratec offers total solutions for pallet, box, and unit handling worldwide.
The Intralogistics Solutions business unit integrates robotics, AMR/AGV technology, advanced storage and picking systems, and proprietary IT solutions (WMS/WCS integration). Together with our other business units, we provide bespoke handling solutions, automation of various industrial processes, and electrical installations, including energy storage and charging infrastructure.
Ceratec stands out for its flexibility, reliability, and strong customer-focused approach. We provide comprehensive project support: from design and production to installation, monitoring, and 24/7 after-sales service.
www.ceratec.eu