New online BICS Portal revolutionizes cargo reporting for Dutch skippers
Dutch inland shipping skippers can now report travel and cargo data more easily with the new online BICS Portal. The system, accessible on any device, replaces outdated software and promises greater reliability and convenience for thousands of professionals.
| Key Data Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | March 23, 2026 |
| Platform | Online (BICS Portal), accessible via bicsportal.eu |
| Accessibility | Works on laptops, tablets, and smartphones; no installation required |
| Current Users | Skipper-owners (phased rollout to other groups later) |
| Pilot Feedback | Positive, with user-friendly improvements implemented |
| Old System | Locally installed BICS software remains available temporarily |
| Registration | Instructions available here |
Rijkswaterstaat is responsible for managing the Netherlands' waterways, including the digital infrastructure that supports inland shipping. The BICS Portal is part of their efforts to modernize reporting systems and improve efficiency for skippers and shipping companies.
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Read the full translated article below
Rijkswaterstaat launches BICS Portal: the future of electronic reporting in inland shipping
Published on: March 24, 2026, 11:11 AM
Rijkswaterstaat is introducing the BICS Portal: the new, online version of the Inland Shipping Information and Communication System (BICS). This step simplifies, enhances accessibility, and future-proofs the reporting of travel and cargo data for skippers.
The platform is available via the website Bicsportal and went live on Monday, March 23, 2026.
Always and everywhere accessible
Where BICS previously operated only as a locally installed program on a fixed computer, the BICS Portal is now fully available online. This means skippers are no longer dependent on a single specific computer on board.
The new platform works on any device, including laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Installation is no longer required, and updates are automatically applied. This makes the system easier and more reliable to use.
Positive pilot results
Over the past six months, the BICS Portal has been tested in a pilot with a selected group of inland shipping skippers. Most feedback was positive, with valuable input received. Much of this feedback has since been incorporated, making the application more user-friendly. The platform will continue to be further developed in the coming period.
Skipper Johan Oosse says: ‘In the past, we sometimes ran into software issues. Now, the application is always available via the web and can be used on any device. I see that as a major advantage.’
Phased rollout
The BICS Portal is currently only available to skipper-owners. New functionality will be added gradually, allowing the BICS Portal to be used by other user groups, such as shipping companies and relief skippers. The existing installable version of BICS will remain available for the time being.
More information about BICS Portal
Those interested in the BICS Portal can read how to register on the page Starten met BICS. More information about the BICS Portal can be found in the news item on the BICS website.