Rijeka Gateway Introduces Fully Automated Terminal Entry and Exit System

The CONROO system, operated via smartphones, benefits hauliers while reducing traffic and environmental impact in Rijeka

Rijeka, 26 June 2025 – Rijeka Gateway, the most technologically advanced container terminal in this part of Europe, will implement a fully automated entry and exit system for trucks transporting containers to their final destinations – the first of its kind in Croatia. Road transport is expected to account for around 20 percent of the terminal's total cargo throughput, and the new system will enable a fully digital truck reception and dispatch process, under operator supervision. This step brings numerous advantages, including enhanced cargo traceability and security, faster traffic flow, and economic benefits for both hauliers and cargo owners. Furthermore, it aims to optimise traffic around the terminal, reducing congestion and road strain while positively impacting the environment.

Rijeka Gateway is currently testing the CONROO application, already in use at leading European ports. Its implementation will reduce truck dwell time at the terminal, resulting in lower exhaust emissions, reduced noise levels, and significant relief on access roads.

"We are proud to be the first in Croatia to introduce a fully digital truck entry and exit system. By reducing traffic congestion and saving time, it improves terminal operations and brings a host of benefits to hauliers and the local community. This project further confirms the high level of technology and automation at our terminal. To ensure flawless system functionality, we are launching a series of training sessions and workshops for our partners, hauliers, and freight forwarders, so they can fully understand and make the most of the system's benefits,” stated Robert Uljan, Head of Landside Operations at Rijeka Gateway.

“Our mission within the Rijeka Gateway project is to support the vision of a state-of-the-art container terminal. We are proud to contribute our technological expertise to Croatia’s largest infrastructure project,” said Milić Vasić, Project Manager at CONROO.

The CONROO system works by first notifying the truck driver of their booked arrival time via smartphone. Upon arriving at the terminal entrance, the driver scans a QR code from their mobile device. Cameras equipped with optical recognition technology then capture multiple angles of the truck, analysing registration plates, container condition, the presence of security seals, and any visible damage. The system compares this data with the central database in milliseconds, eliminating the need for manual documentation checks.

After successful authentication, the driver receives instructions to proceed to the assigned loading or unloading bay. During the operation, the system continuously updates the process status. Upon exit, the same digital protocol is followed, generating an electronically and legally recognised document containing all relevant transaction details. The entire process is designed to reduce processing time per truck to 20–30 minutes for a dual transaction (unloading and loading) – significantly quicker than conventional methods.

The automated entry system is part of Rijeka Gateway’s broader vision for sustainable operations. The terminal will be powered by electricity from renewable sources, significantly reducing CO₂ and other harmful emissions. Advanced water management and drainage systems will eliminate the risk of marine pollution. Special attention is being given to reducing noise and light pollution in the terminal and surrounding areas, with these goals achieved through the use of cutting-edge technologies.

A key prerequisite for the introduction of this system was the revision of the free zone boundaries managed by the Port of Rijeka Authority, approved by the Government of the Republic of Croatia. This change will enable Rijeka Gateway to obtain temporary storage status, which will further enhance efficiency, accelerate cargo flow, and simplify logistics processes in the future.