The UK’s northern gateway for dry bulk cargo is shortlisted for both Best Dry Bulk Port and the Innovative Technology Award after a period of sustained investment and modernisation.
 
One of the standout projects is the successful automation of weigh-bridges at Teesport and Hartlepool. With five fully automated weigh-bridges at Tees Dock and a further system now operational at Hartlepool, increasing capacity to handle up to 7,000 tonnes of bulk cargo per weigh-bridge per day while improving safety and reducing turnaround times for customers.
 
Traditional weighbridge operations relied heavily on manual processes, creating the risk of bottlenecks, slower turnaround times and greater safety challenges. With demand for bulk handling continuing to grow, PD Ports identified the need for a smarter and more integrated solution.
 
The new systems feature automated traffic light controls, ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) cameras and driver self-service terminals. Fully integrated with Commtrac our terminal operating system, introduced at Tees Bulks Quay in 2023, to create a seamless digital weighing process.
 
Raising the standard in bulk cargo handling
Grant Honzik, PD Ports’ Director of Bulks Operations, said the weigh-bridge programme reflects the company’s commitment to delivering smarter, safer and more reliable services.
 
He said: “Automation has completely changed the way we operate at Teesport and Hartlepool. By removing manual intervention, we’ve cut turnaround times, reduced congestion and provided our customers with far more accurate and timely data. That’s not just good for efficiency – it underpins better decision-making right across the supply chain.
 
“Having five weigh-bridges fully automated at Tees Dock, alongside a new installation at Hartlepool, means we’re leading the way in creating a modern, technology-driven port environment. It’s about future proofing our operations and giving our customers confidence that we can meet their evolving needs.”
 
Putting customers at the centre
The upgrades have delivered a number of immediate benefits for port users:
 
  • Faster turnaround – reducing waiting times and keeping supply chains moving
  • Greater accuracy – consistent, reliable weigh data with fewer disputes or delays
  • Better customer information – enhanced digital reporting to support logistics planning
Grant added: “When you look at the scale of throughput – up to 7,000 tonnes in a single day on one weigh-bridge – it’s clear how critical this infrastructure is for our customers. The value isn’t just in speed; it’s in the confidence that their cargo is being handled safely, accurately and efficiently every time.”
 
Part of a wider strategy
The weigh-bridge initiative is part of PD Ports’ long-term strategy to modernise bulk operations through investment in digital systems, sustainable equipment and port-centric logistics services. This includes the rollout of the Commtrac terminal operating system, electric cranes, and a growing fleet of specialist logistics vehicles.
 
Grant said: “Our industry is changing quickly – customer expectations, environmental responsibilities and global competition all demand a smarter approach. By investing in automation and digitalisation, PD Ports is not just keeping pace, we’re setting new benchmarks for bulk cargo handling in the UK.”