eRO (electronic Release Order) frequently asked questions

• General Questions

  1. What is eRO (electronic Release Order)?

     eRO stands for electronic Release Order. eRO platform enables shipping lines to issue electronic container release instructions for consignees or their agents - including forwarders & consignee agents - to collect import laden containers at container terminals.

     eRO platform provides a common platform for liners, consignees, consignees’ agents and freight forwarders to handle import documents and related payments. It manages dispatch and receipt of electronic release orders which in turn facilitates laden pickup at terminals and empty return at depots. With this newly-launched eRO platform, consignees and their agents no longer need to physically deliver documents to shipping lines. Relevant import documents can be directly sent to the eRO accounts of consignees/ their agents upon verification by liners. An owner of an eRO can continue to forward the eRO to another party on the platform. When a trucking company receives an eRO forwarded by a consignee, the trucking company is required to assign a plate number for verification at the terminal during pickup. A pickup will only be effectuated if it is within the free storage period. When an empty is returned to a depot, both “return location” and “free demurrage period” will be checked.

     Click Here to Read More on eRO

  2. Is eRO secured and reliable?

     Security is the number one concern at the time when the service was designed and developed. During registration of the service, users must submit the proof of a valid business registration for identity verification purpose. Further, the service carries the most commonly used security features, such as 2-step verification of identity, which is proven and widely adopted in many other popular electronic services. All data are transmitted securely with encryption on network, and there is only one verified owner of an eRO in the system at any given time so that ownership of eRO is not compromised. Trucking companies are required to assign tractor’s plate number for eRO laden pick-up before gate-in at terminals so that only the designated tractor will be able to collect the container. All these security features safeguard reliability of container release; the tedious paper process is replaced and will no longer be the stumbling block in efficiency improvement.

  3. How does eRO service protect data confidentiality and uphold accountability of platform users in relation to their system activities?

     eRO is a neutral platform which adopts the principle of least privilege in system design. Data are securely segregated, with access only granted to those users who have legitimate purpose. eRO is only a tool for members of the port community – including liners, consignees and their agents, freight forwarders, trucking companies, terminal operators and depot operators - to implement digitization for import containers. The system does NOT have the capability to generate and execute a transaction decision automatically on behalf of any user. All users are responsible for their own system activities executed by themselves on eRO platform. Such responsibility must be acknowledged by eRO users during service registration. Playing the role of a neutral platform, OnePort Limited (OnePort) cautiously keeps user data confidential. Should there be any need to disclose information, it will only be done through proper legal procedures.

  4. Is there service charge for using the service?

     After a lengthy free trial period, eRO started charging on 1 July 2020. The service is charged at cost recovery basis shared among stakeholders of the port community. With this cost sharing approach, OnePort is able to provide low cost, but yet effective solution to the industry for maximizing their operations efficiency and productivity.

  5. How are customers protected from unexpected rising cost of using the service in future?

     Based on cost recovery principle, the service charge will take reference of the inflation rate in accordance to the Hong Kong CPI (Consumer Price Index). The cost projection for using the service, therefore, is very transparent to the customers.

  6. Does Inspection & Quarantine of PRC (中國檢疫) have access to eRO service?

     Inspection & Quarantine of PRC has already had access to OnePort’s system which allows them to check the gate-in and gate-out time of containers processed at Kwai Tsing terminals. Should they need further information, we shall further work with them to fulfill the requirements.

• Operations Issues

  (DO) – Delivery Order
  

  eRO – electronic Release Order
  

  1. What does a truck driver need for laden pickup at terminal?

     When a trucking company receives an eRO forwarded by its customer, the trucking company can immediately assign a tractor and a driver for pickup. This bundled information will be available to terminals on eRO platform where the terminal will release the container to the assigned tractor. The driver will also receive the eRO reference together with a QR code on our mobile app HKiPort eRO. All the driver has to do is to show the QR code at terminal for pickup; he no longer needs to present any paper document at the terminal.

  2. My truck driver does not know how to use the mobile app HKiPort eRO and those QR codes being generated. Is there another way?

     The mobile app HKiPort eRO is user friendly, providing truck drivers with additional operational convenience such as instant access to the details of your import containers. It further facilitates communications between you and your drivers. Using QR code is easy where the driver needs to open HKiPort eRO on his/ her mobile phone. Upon identity verification by entering login information, the app will automatically download the driver's required containers for his/ her selection. Just a few simple clicks of buttons will pull out the required QR code. Aiming at helping drivers to learn the app, OnePort has prepared various teaching materials in different formats - including regular training classes, a comprehensive online user manual and step-by-step instructions for common operations, etc. Drivers can also contact our customer service representatives for further questions.

     If your truck driver has yet to get familiar with HKiPort eRO for the time being, you/your driver can login to eRO platform on the Internet and print out an Electronic Release Order Reference. The reference contains a QR code which can also be presented to the terminal upon laden pickup.

  3. eRO platform requires me to choose whether my company or my trucking company will pay the port security charge (PSC). Please clarify.

     Port Security Charge (PSC) is a security charge imposed by individual Kwai Tsing container terminals on laden containers entering or leaving Kwai Tsing container terminals. With the aim to provide a one-stop solution for eRO users, eRO platform provides a function for platform users to settle corresponding PSC of their import containers at the same time as they handle import release documents on eRO platform. It simplifies PSC payment for eRO users, saving repetitive work and time for going through a separate payment system.

     As practice may differ among eRO users, eRO platform provides consignees with flexible options which allow consignees to choose who will settle the charge.

  4. Can I directly assign an eRO job to a tractor or a driver who is not registered under my company?

     Yes. You can use the “Direct Assignment” function to assign a tractor or a driver who is not registered under your company.

  5. Is there any cut-off time for changing the assigned tractor or driver?

     Yes. You must submit your change request before the pickup.

     (Supplementary note: you must assign a tractor and a driver before your driver entering the gate.)

  6. I have several employees working for me. Would they need to share the login ID & password?

     No. Each company ID can have multiple user IDs and respective passwords. You are advised to set up individual user ID for each employee.

  7. Can I change the name of consignee being printed on eRO?

     The design of eRO allows liners to change the name of consignee recorded on eRO. As the actual practice may differ among liners, please contact your liner for detailed information.

  8. May I ask a liner to hold a container on eRO system?

     The design of eRO allows liners to hold containers. As the actual practice may differ among liners, please contact your liner for detailed information.

  9. When I imported a shipment, the record could not be found in eRO system. Please clarify the issue.

     Similar situations may happen when a shipment is being imported by a consignee before a liner imports related data. Please doubt-check the bill number and container number you have entered. If the situation persists till one day before actual berthing, please contact your liner or OnePort for follow up.

  10. I am used to change the free storage period (FSP) by taking a paper delivery DO to the liner. What should I do if I switch to eRO?

      The design of eRO platform has already taken care of this issue where eRO platform provides liners with flexible and user-friendly system functions to assign free storage period (FSP) & free demurrage period (FDP) at various levels including vessel/voyage, bill and individual containers. The change of FSP/FDP information is instantly available to concerned parties for their timely adjustment of work and resources. You are no longer required to physically visit liner’s counter for changes and re-printing of paper release orders. Steps may differ among liners; we suggest that you should contact your liner and enquire the actual steps for changing FSP/ FDP.

  11. Which pickup/ return locations are covered in the eRO scheme?

      Beside Kwai Tsing container terminals*, eRO is/ will be gradually implemented at depots referred by liners (e.g. APS, RTT, China Merchants Wharf).

      * including Asia Container Terminals Limited (“ACT”), COSCO-HIT Terminals (Hong Kong) Limited (“CHT”), Hong Kong Container Terminal 3 (“CT3”), Hongkong International Terminals Limited (“HIT”)and Modern Terminals Limited (“MTL”)

  12. Can I still use eRO service when a shipping line requires original documents (e.g. original bill of lading, license/ permit, etc.)?

      In the above mentioned case, a consignee can deliver these original documents to the liner while without waiting at the service counter for return of any documents. Time and resources are saved through cutback of a return courier trip. After delivery of an original document, the liner will issue the eRO accordingly and you can continue to do the rest of the procedures on eRO platform.

  13. It is not uncommon to experience that electronic service could be slower than paper process. Would it be a valid concern of eRO?

      It would only be a valid concern if the work steps are being pended in the system without proper and timely attention by users. All electronic documents and instructions on eRO platform can be transmitted by just a click of button. eRO users community is strongly advised to restructure internal resources and work flow so as to take full advantages of benefits which can be rendered by technologies nowadays.

  14. How do the consignees make payment, which are mostly cheque payment at present, to liners when using eRO service?

      Consignees can make cheque deposit at bank or through ATM nearby in advance. The copy of the deposit slip can be attached on eRO platform for liner’s verification. To further provide a one-stop service to eRO users, eRO platform will have its own e-payment solution when terminals fully implement electronic release for import containers. The aim is to facilitate direct payment with liners on eRO platform where eRO users will no longer need to make cheque deposit at bank or through ATM. Please closely follow OnePort latest news regarding this development.

  15. Is there any difference between using current paper release order and eRO in the case of container damages?

      There is no difference between paper and electronic release order since terminals will maintain the practice of issuing container damage slip/report, which the driver can present as evidence of damages when the container is returned to depot.

  16. What happens if a container is wrongly released under eRO?

      Terminals follow all necessary validation procedures in accordance to information provided on eRO platform before releasing the container. Should the container be released to the wrong hands, OnePort would have sufficient information to assist terminals to carry out investigation and proper handling.

  17. How long will the eRO data be retained on eRO platform?

      The data will be retained for 7 years. 90 days’ data is available online for instant access. For obtaining data beyond 90 days, please contact OnePort.

• I am a Freight Forwarder.

  (DO) – Delivery Order
  

  eRO – electronic Release Order
  

  1. Do I need to sign up for eRO service?

     If you need to use eRO service, you must sign up for the service. Upon full implementation on electronic release of import containers, all customers are able to receive and transmit electronic release orders (eROs) on eRO platform. Unregistered customers cannot gain access to the system and, in consequence, they are not able to receive eROs released by their shipping lines.

  2. I am a freight forwarder. Do my customers need to sign up for eRO service?

     Yes. For all consignees who have import containers to be picked up in Hong Kong, they are required to sign up for eRO service regardless of whether they are involved in the daily handling of import release documents (e.g. DO). The only exception applies to consignees of loose import cargoes.

  3. If my customer (i.e. a consignee) refuses to sign up for the service, can he/ she entrust his/ her trucking partner for service registration and future handling?

     Though your customer (i.e. consignee) refuses to use eRO, he/ she still needs to sign up for the service and grant a one-time authorization* to his/ her trucking partner for handling their import containers on his/ her behalf. Without the authorization granted on eRO system, the trucking partner is unable to do so.

     * A one-time authorization remains valid until it is withdrawn.

  4. I am used to leverage on my trucking companies or other partners to work with liners. Do I still need to sign up for the service?

     Being a freight forwarder, you are nevertheless required to sign up for the service regardless of whether you entrust the daily handling of import release documents to other parties. For the purpose of securing title ownership of your containers, please sign up. Upon registration, you can still entrust* other parties to handle the tasks without major difference from today’s practice. If you do not sign up for the service, you are not able to grant authorization to your partners on eRO system.

     * A one-time authorization remains valid until it is withdrawn.

  5. If my company name is indicated in the field of “consignee” on the DO, should I sign up for eRO service as “consignee” or “freight forwarder”?

     If you have the ownership of that container, you should sign up as “consignee”. If you are just a forwarding contractor of the container, you should sign up as “freight forwarder”.

  6. Sometimes, we may need to obtain DOs from shipping lines on behalf of our customers while the DOs indicate my customers as “consignee”. In this case, which role should we sign up for during registration of eRO service? May my customers be exempted from registration?

     Both your customers and you need to sign up for eRO service. Your customers should sign up as “consignee”, with you as “consignee agent”. Upon registration, your customers should perform a one-time action to authorize* you as their agent so as to receive eROs from shipping lines on their behalf.

     * A one-time authorization remains valid until it is withdrawn.

  7. Though I am primarily a freight forwarder, I also perform other roles to handle import related matters. Can I sign up for multiple accounts for different roles?

     Yes. Each company can register multiple accounts for different roles on need basis. An individual account with unique OnePort Company ID will be assigned to each role. If you need to obtain DOs from liners on behalf of your customers, you need to sign up for eRO service as both “freight forwarder” and “consignee agent” separately.

  8. My customer (i.e. a consignee) is not a registered company in Hong Kong nor does he/ she has an office here. Does he/ she need to sign up for eRO service? How to do so?

     Regardless of office location, a consignee who has an import container to be picked up in Hong Kong must sign up for eRO service before he/ she can authorize* an agent for further handling. A company with registered office outside Hong Kong can sign up for eRO service at http://reg.oneport.com/ ; the proof of a valid business registration must be provided for identity verification purpose.

     * A one-time authorization remains valid until it is withdrawn.

  9. I am a customer of OnePort and have a valid OnePort Company ID. Am I automatically being enrolled for eRO service? Why should I need to sign up again?

     No. Having a OnePort Company ID does not entitle you to be an eRO user. Adding eRO service to your existing membership requires submission of additional information and proper approval from OnePort for service activation. Though you have a valid OnePort Company ID, you still cannot use eRO service without going through proper eRO registration process. Upon successful registration of eRO service, an email containing login information (including passwords) will be sent to you.

  10. I am used to visit different liners to collect DOs issued by different liners. When eRO is fully implemented, can I simply login to eRO platform to coordinate with different liners?

      Yes. This is one of major benefits of eRO service. eRO provides a one-stop solution for digitization of import container release, enabling users to connect to multiple liners on a common platform. eRO users need NOT login to different systems for different liners. The current paper DO will be digitized and distributed through electronic means.

  11. Have all liners joined eRO service? Will we receive updates from liners?

      For benefits of the port community in Hong Kong, OnePort welcomes all liners to join eRO service to provide localized solution for import release with the aim to improve overall productivity and cost saving through synergy among various stakeholders. Helping members of the port community to gradually migrate to eRO platform, OnePort will fully open eRO service by phases and by lines. Thus, different liners will have different timetables where OnePort will centralize release of information duly. Please closely follow our news updates to be posted on www.OnePort.com.

  12. When will the full implementation of electronic release for import containers take place?

      OnePort has started trial with a number of liners, freight forwarders, consignees and trucking companies since 2016. Over years of operations optimization, Kwai Tsing container terminals have fully implemented electronic release of import containers since February 2020. In response to the need of the community, paper DOs are still accepted in the transition until further notice.

  13. How do I make payment to liners when using eRO service? Can I pay through eRO system?

      You can make cheque deposit at bank or through ATM nearby in advance. The copy of the deposit slip can be attached on eRO platform for liner’s verification. To further provide a one-stop service to eRO users, eRO platform will have its own e-payment solution when terminals fully implement electronic release for import containers. The aim is to facilitate direct payment with liners on eRO platform where eRO users will no longer need to make cheque deposit at bank or through ATM. Please closely follow OnePort latest news regarding this development.

  14. Does the service only cover import containers? Does it extend to “loose cargoes”?

      eRO service facilitates handling of import containers only; it does NOT extend to “loose cargoes”.

  15. Beside Kwai Tsing container terminals, is eRO implemented at other terminals or depots?

      Yes. Beside Kwai Tsing container terminals*, eRO is/ will be gradually implemented at depots referred by liners (e.g. APS, RTT, China Merchants Wharf).

      * including Asia Container Terminals Limited (“ACT”), COSCO-HIT Terminals (Hong Kong) Limited (“CHT”), Hong Kong Container Terminal 3 (“CT3”), Hongkong International Terminals Limited (“HIT”) and Modern Terminals Limited (“MTL”)

• I am a Consignee.

  (DO) – Delivery Order
  

  eRO – electronic Release Order
  

  1. Do I need to sign up for eRO service?

     If you need to use eRO service, you must sign up for the service. Upon full implementation on electronic release of import containers, all customers are able to receive and transmit electronic release orders (eROs) on eRO platform. Unregistered customers cannot gain access to the system and, in consequence, they are not able to receive eROs released by their shipping lines.

  2. Do my trucking partners and customers need to sign up for eRO service?

     Upon full implementation on electronic release of import containers, all customers are able to receive and transmit electronic release orders (eROs) on eRO platform. Unregistered customers cannot gain access to the system and, in consequence, they are not able to receive any eRO forwarded by others. On this ground, your trucking partners and your customers (i.e. consignees) need to sign up for service in order to receive and forward eROs.

  3. I am used to leverage on my trucking companies or agents to work with liners. Do I still need to sign up for the service?

     Being a consignee, you are nevertheless required to sign up for the service regardless of whether you entrust the daily handling of import release documents to other parties. For the purpose of securing title ownership of your containers, please sign up. Upon registration, you can still entrust* other parties to handle the tasks without major difference from today’s practice. If you do not sign up for the service, you are not able to grant authorization to your partners on eRO system.

     * A one-time authorization remains valid until it is withdrawn.

  4. My trucking partners/ agents/ warehouse partners directly handle my DOs with liners/ forwarders. Being a consignee, I understand I should sign up as “consignee” for eRO service. Do my trucking partners/ agents/ warehouse partners need to sign up?

     Yes. If they need to work with liners/ forwarders on your behalf, they should sign up as “consignee agent”.

  5. If my company name is indicated in the field of “consignee” on the DO while my agent is recognized as a “Notify Party”, should the “Notify Party” sign up for eRO service before handling the release order?

     Yes, the “Notify Party” needs to sign up as “consignee agent” before handling your release order.

  6. My customer (i.e. a buyer) is not a registered company in Hong Kong nor does he/ she has an office here. Does he/she need to sign up for eRO service? How to do so?

     Regardless of office location, a consignee who has an import container to be picked up in Hong Kong must sign up for eRO service before he/ she can authorize* an agent for further handling. A company with registered office outside Hong Kong can sign up for eRO service at http://reg.oneport.com/; the proof of a valid business registration must be provided for identity verification purpose.

     * A one-time authorization remains valid until it is withdrawn.

  7. I am a customer of OnePort and have a valid OnePort Company ID. Am I automatically being enrolled for eRO service? Why should I need to sign up again?

     No. Having a OnePort Company ID does not entitle you to be an eRO user. Adding eRO service to your existing membership requires submission of additional information and proper approval from OnePort for service activation. Though you have a valid OnePort Company ID, you still cannot use eRO service without going through proper eRO registration process. Upon successful registration of eRO service, an email containing login information (including passwords) will be sent to you.

  8. My DOs are currently handled by a number of trucking partners/ agents/ warehouse companies. If I authorize all of them as my trusted agents on eRO platform, are they able to see all my eROs handled by different parties?

     Being your trusted agents, they can only see those eROs of yours being currently handled by them. They are NOT able to see those which are currently handled by other trusted agents.

  9. I have a trading partner and I am used to pass on the paper DO for container pickup. Would I still need to pass on the original DO after using eRO service?

     No. After using eRO service, you need NOT pass on the original DO to your trading partner. When you see appropriate, you can simply forward the eRO to your trading partner on eRO platform (* you can choose whether you would like to disclose the name of consignee.*).

  10. If there is a change of plate number in relation to the pickup of my laden container, what should I do in eRO system?

      When you receive the eRO from your liner on eRO platform, you are only required to forward the eRO to your trucking company so as to finish your part. You need NOT handle subsequent works (e.g. assignment/ re-assignment of plate number and driver); these works will be completed by your trucking company.
      
      For your further information, OnePort offers mobile app HKiPort eRO to trucking company. HKiPort eRO provides convenience to trucking companies and allows them to assign/ change plate number and driver anywhere, anytime.

  11. I am used to visit different liners to collect DOs issued by different liners. When eRO is fully implemented, can I simply login to eRO platform to coordinate with different liners?

      Yes. This is one of major benefits of eRO service. eRO provides a one-stop solution for digitization of import container release, enabling users to connect to multiple liners on a common platform. eRO users need NOT login to different systems for different liners. The current paper DO will be digitized and distributed through electronic means.

  12. Have all liners/ freight forwarders joined eRO service? Will we receive updates from them?

      For benefits of the port community in Hong Kong, OnePort welcomes all liners and forwarders to join eRO service to provide localized solution for import release with the aim to improve overall productivity and cost saving through synergy among various stakeholders. Helping members of the port community to gradually migrate to eRO platform, OnePort will fully open eRO service by lines and by phases. Thus, different liners have different timetables. As for freight forwarders, consignees can start to use the service upon registration by their forwarders. OnePort will centralize the announcement of latest developments; please closely follow our news updates to be posted on www.OnePort.com .

  13. How do I make payment to liners when using eRO service? Can I pay through eRO system?

      You can make cheque deposit at bank or through ATM nearby in advance. The copy of the deposit slip can be attached on eRO platform for liner’s verification. To further provide a one-stop service to eRO users, eRO platform will have its own e-payment solution when terminals fully implement electronic release for import containers. The aim is to facilitate direct payment with liners on eRO platform where eRO users will no longer need to make cheque deposit at bank or through ATM. Please closely follow OnePort latest news regarding this development.

  14. My trucking partners/ agents directly handle my DOs with liners while payments to liners are settled by cheques issued by my company. Can eRO platform cater the above situation?

      In the future, convenient and flexible payment options will be available where your partners will have options to directly pay online or send a payment request to you for your further approval.

  15. When will the full implementation of electronic release for import containers take place?

      OnePort has started trial with a number of liners, freight forwarders, consignees and trucking companies since 2016. Over years of operations optimization, Kwai Tsing container terminals have fully implemented electronic release of import containers since February 2020. In response to the need of the community, paper DOs are still accepted in the transition until further notice.

  16. Does the service only cover import containers? Does it extend to “loose cargoes”?

      eRO service facilitates handling of import containers only; it does NOT extend to “loose cargoes”.

  17. Beside Kwai Tsing container terminals, is eRO implemented at other terminals or depots?

      Yes. Beside Kwai Tsing container terminals*, eRO is/ will be gradually implemented at depots referred by liners (e.g. APS, RTT, China Merchants Wharf).

      * including Asia Container Terminals Limited (“ACT”), COSCO-HIT Terminals (Hong Kong) Limited (“CHT”), Hong Kong Container Terminal 3 (“CT3”), Hongkong International Terminals Limited (“HIT”)and Modern Terminals Limited (“MTL”)

• I am a Consignee Agent.

  (DO) – Delivery Order
  

  eRO – electronic Release Order
  

  1. Do I need to sign up for eRO service?

     If you need to use eRO service, you must sign up for the service. Upon full implementation on electronic release of import containers, all customers are able to receive and transmit electronic release orders (eROs) on eRO platform. Unregistered customers cannot gain access to the system and, in consequence, they are not able to receive eROs released by their shipping lines.

  2. Do my trucking partners and customers need to sign up for eRO service?

     Upon full implementation on electronic release of import containers, all customers are able to receive and transmit electronic release orders (eROs) on eRO platform. Unregistered customers cannot gain access to the system and, in consequence, they are not able to receive any eRO forwarded by others. On this ground, your trucking partners and your customers (i.e. consignees) need to sign up for service in order to receive and forward eROs.

  3. I handle DOs of my customers directly with liners/ forwarders. Being an agent, do I need to sign up?

     Yes. If you need to work with liners/ forwarders on behalf of your customers, you should sign up as “consignee agent”.

  4. If my customer is indicated as “consignee” on the DO while I am recognized as a “Notify Party”, should I sign up for eRO service before handling the release order?

     Yes, the “Notify Party” (i.e. you in this case) needs to sign up as “consignee agent” before handling your release order.

  5. I have more than one consignee customer. When using the eRO platform, would I need to manage multiple login accounts? How do I simplify the work?

     Opening a “consignee agent” account will help simplify the work. First, both your customers and you need to sign up for eRO service. Your customers should sign up as “consignee”, with you as “consignee agent”. Upon registration, your customers should perform a one-time action to authorize* you as their trusted agent so as to receive eROs from shipping lines on their behalf. Once done, you can log into your own “consignee agent” account and handle all eROs for different consignee customers.

     * A one-time authorization remains valid until it is withdrawn.

  6. My customer (i.e. a buyer) is not a registered company in Hong Kong nor does he/ she has an office here. Does he/ she need to sign up for eRO service? How to do so?

     Regardless of office location, a consignee who has an import container to be picked up in Hong Kong must sign up for eRO service before he/ she can authorize* an agent for further handling. A company with registered office outside Hong Kong can sign up for eRO service at http://reg.oneport.com/; the proof of a valid business registration must be provided for identity verification purpose.

     * A one-time authorization remains valid until it is withdrawn.

  7. I am a customer of OnePort and have a valid OnePort Company ID. Am I automatically being enrolled for eRO service? Why should I need to sign up again?

     No. Having a OnePort Company ID does not entitle you to be an eRO user. Adding eRO service to your existing membership requires submission of additional information and proper approval from OnePort for service activation. Though you have a valid OnePort Company ID, you still cannot use eRO service without going through proper eRO registration process. Upon successful registration of eRO service, an email containing login information (including passwords) will be sent to you.

  8. What are the key actions that a consignee agent can perform in eRO platform?

     Upon obtaining authorization* from a consignee, an agent can handle import containers on eRO platform on behalf of the consignee. Key actions include:

     
     - Use consignee’s company chop stored in eRO platform and submit an electronic letter of indemnity (eLOI) on consignee’s behalf;
     
     - Obtain the eRO on consignee’s behalf;
     
     - Forward the eRO to a trucking company on consignee’s behalf.
     
     All these actions are transparent to the consignee.
     

     * A one-time authorization remains valid until it is withdrawn.

  9. I have multiple consignee customers. I am afraid I may get mixed up if I handle all customers under one single login.

     The design of consignee agent interface has already catered this issue. When a consignee agent logs into the system, the agent must first choose the consignee before any records will be displayed.

  10. When I prepare an electronic letter of indemnity on behalf of my consignee, can I attach the consignee’s company chop?

      Yes. Where you see fit, you can choose to attach the company chop of either yours or your consignee.

  11. If there is a change of plate number in relation to the pickup of a container that I am handling, what should I do in eRO system?

      When you receive the eRO from the liner on eRO platform, you are only required to forward the eRO to your trucking company so as to finish your part. You need NOT handle subsequent works (e.g. assignment/ re-assignment of plate number and driver); these works will be completed by your trucking company.

      For your further information, OnePort offers mobile app HKiPort eRO to trucking company. HKiPort eRO provides convenience to trucking company and allows them to assign/ change plate number and driver anywhere, anytime.

  12. I am used to visit different liners to collect DOs issued by different liners. When eRO is fully implemented, can I simply login to eRO platform to coordinate with different liners?

      Yes. This is one of major benefits of eRO service. eRO provides a one-stop solution for digitization of import container release, enabling users to connect to multiple liners on a common platform. eRO users need NOT login to different systems for different liners. The current paper DO will be digitized and distributed through electronic means.

  13. Have all liners/ freight forwarders joined eRO service? Will we receive updates from them?

      For benefits of the port community in Hong Kong, OnePort welcomes all liners and forwarders to join eRO service to provide localized solution for import release with the aim to improve overall productivity and cost saving through synergy among various stakeholders. Helping members of the port community to gradually migrate to eRO platform, OnePort will fully open eRO service by lines and by phases. Thus, different liners have different timetables. As for freight forwarders, consignees can start to use the service upon registration by their forwarders. OnePort will centralize the announcement of latest developments; please closely follow our news updates to be posted on www.OnePort.com.

  14. How do I make payment to liners when using eRO service? Can I pay through eRO system?

      You can make cheque deposit at bank or through ATM nearby in advance. The copy of the deposit slip can be attached on eRO platform for liner’s verification. To further provide a one-stop service to eRO users, eRO platform will have its own e-payment solution when terminals fully implement electronic release for import containers. The aim is to facilitate direct payment with liners on eRO platform where eRO users will no longer need to make cheque deposit at bank or through ATM. Please closely follow OnePort latest news regarding this development.

  15. I handle DOs of my customers directly with liners while payments to liners are settled by cheques issued by my customers. Can eRO platform cater the above situation?

      In the future, convenient and flexible payment options will be available where you will have options to directly pay online or send a payment request to your customer for his further approval.

  16. When will the full implementation of electronic release for import containers take place?

      OnePort has started trial with a number of liners, freight forwarders, consignees and trucking companies since 2016. Over years of operations optimization, Kwai Tsing container terminals have fully implemented electronic release of import containers since February 2020. In response to the need of the community, paper DOs are still accepted in the transition until further notice.

  17. Does the service only cover import containers? Does it extend to “loose cargoes”?

      eRO service facilitates handling of import containers only; it does NOT extend to “loose cargoes”.

  18. Beside Kwai Tsing container terminals, is eRO implemented at other terminals or depots?

      Yes. Beside Kwai Tsing container terminals*, eRO is/ will be gradually implemented at depots referred by liners (e.g. APS, RTT, China Merchants Wharf).

      * including Asia Container Terminals Limited (“ACT”), COSCO-HIT Terminals (Hong Kong) Limited (“CHT”), Hong Kong Container Terminal 3 (“CT3”), Hongkong International Terminals Limited (“HIT”), and Modern Terminals Limited (“MTL”)

• I am a Trucker.

  (DO) – Delivery Order
  

  eRO – electronic Release Order
  

  1. Do I need to sign up for eRO service?

     If you need to use eRO service, you must sign up for the service. Upon full implementation on electronic release of import containers, all customers are able to receive and transmit electronic release orders (eROs) on eRO platform. Unregistered customers cannot gain access to the system and, in consequence, they are not able to receive eROs released by their shipping lines.

  2. My customers (i.e. consignees or agents) always rely on me to collect DOs on their behalf. Do they still need to sign up even though I have already signed up?

     Regardless of whether you handle import release documents directly with liners on behalf of your consignees or forwarders, your consignees and forwarders should sign up for eRO service for the purpose of protecting their title ownership. Upon registration, they can still entrust* you to handle the tasks without major difference from today’s practice. If they do not sign up for the service, they are not able to grant authorization to you on eRO system and thus, you are not able to handle these containers on their behalf.

     * A one-time authorization remains valid until it is withdrawn.

  3. Sometimes, we may need to obtain DOs from shipping lines on behalf of our customers while the DOs indicate my customers as “consignee”. In this case, which role should we sign up for in the registration of eRO service? May my customers be exempted from registration?

     Both your customers and you need to sign up for eRO service. Your customers should sign up as “consignee”, with you as “consignee agent”. Upon registration, your customers should perform a one-time action to authorize* you as their trusted agent so as to receive eROs from shipping lines on their behalf.

     * A one-time authorization remains valid until it is withdrawn.

  4. My customer (i.e. consignee) is not a registered company in Hong Kong nor does he/ she has an office here. Does he/ she need to sign up for eRO service? How to do so?

     Regardless of office location, a consignee who has an import container to be picked up in Hong Kong must sign up for eRO service before he/ she can authorize* an agent for further handling. A company with registered office outside Hong Kong can sign up for eRO service at http://reg.oneport.com/ ; the proof of a valid business registration must be provided for identity verification purpose.

     * A one-time authorization remains valid until it is withdrawn.

  5. I am a customer of OnePort and have a valid OnePort Company ID. Am I automatically being enrolled for eRO service? Why should I need to sign up again?

     No. Having a OnePort Company ID does not entitle you to be an eRO user. Adding eRO service to your existing membership requires submission of additional information and proper approval from OnePort for service activation. Though you have a valid OnePort Company ID, you still cannot use eRO service without going through proper eRO registration process. Upon successful registration of eRO service, an email containing login information (including passwords) will be sent to you.

  6. Though I am primarily a trucking company, I also perform other roles to handle import related matters. Can I sign up for multiple accounts for different roles?

     Yes. Each company can register multiple accounts for different roles on need basis. An individual account with unique OnePort Company ID will be assigned to each role. If you need to obtain DOs from liners on behalf of your customers, you need to sign up for eRO service as both “trucking company” and “consignee agent” separately.

  7. Upon full implementation of eRO, what things/ documents will be needed for my truck drivers to pick up import containers at terminals?

     When you receive an eRO forwarded by your customer, you can immediately assign a tractor and a driver for pickup. This bundled information will be available to terminals on eRO platform where the terminal will release the container to the assigned tractor. The driver will also receive the eRO reference together with a QR code on our mobile app HKiPort eRO. All your driver has to do is to show the QR code at terminal for pickup; he no longer needs to present any paper document at terminal.

  8. Our company does not own any trucks nor TID cards issued by Kwai Tsing container terminals. However, we need to arrange trucking for our customers. Which role should we sign up?

     If you do not own any trucks nor 5-digit TID cards issued by Kwai Tsing container terminals while you need to arrange trucking for your customers, you should sign up as a “trucking agent”. Upon registration, you will receive a 6-digit OnePort Company ID and you will be able to forward eROs of your customers to trucking companies.

  9. When will the full implementation of electronic release for import containers take place?

     OnePort has started trial with a number of liners, freight forwarders, consignees and trucking companies since 2016. Over years of operations optimization, Kwai Tsing container terminals have fully implemented electronic release of import containers since February 2020. In response to the need of the community, paper DOs are still accepted in the transition until further notice.

  10. How do I assign trucking tasks to other trucking companies?

      First of all, those trucking companies must sign up for eRO service as “trucking companies”. Upon registration, they can receive eROs forwarded by you and further proceed with tractor and driver assignment on eRO platform.

  11. We do not work in office all the times. Is there mobile app for eRO service?

      Other than accessing eRO via Internet in office, you can download our mobile app “HKiPort eRO” to gain access to eRO service.

  12. Beside Kwai Tsing container terminals, is eRO implemented at other terminals or depots?

      Yes. Beside Kwai Tsing container terminals*, eRO is/ will be gradually implemented at depots referred by liners (e.g. APS, RTT, China Merchants Wharf).

      * including Asia Container Terminals Limited (“ACT”), COSCO-HIT Terminals (Hong Kong) Limited (“CHT”), Hong Kong Container Terminal 3 (“CT3”), Hongkong International Terminals Limited (“HIT”)and Modern Terminals Limited (“MTL”)

• I am a Trucking Agent.

  (DO) – Delivery Order
  

  eRO – electronic Release Order
  

  1. Do I need to sign up for eRO service?

     If you need to use eRO service, you must sign up for the service. Upon full implementation on electronic release of import containers, all customers are able to receive and transmit electronic release orders (eROs) on eRO platform. Unregistered customers cannot gain access to the system and, in consequence, they are not able to receive eROs released by their shipping lines.

  2. Do my trucking partners and customers need to sign up for eRO service?

     Upon full implementation on electronic release of import containers, all customers are able to receive and transmit electronic release orders (eROs) on eRO platform. Unregistered customers cannot gain access to the system and, in consequence, they are not able to receive any eRO forwarded by others. On this ground, your trucking partners and your customers (i.e. consignees) need to sign up for service in order to receive and forward eROs.

  3. Sometimes, we may need to obtain DOs from shipping lines on behalf of our customers while the DOs indicate my customers as “consignee”. In this case, which role should we sign up for in the registration of eRO service? May my customers be exempted from registration?

     Both your customers and you need to sign up for eRO service. Your customers should sign up as “consignee”, with you as “consignee agent”. Upon registration, your customers should perform a one-time action to authorize* you as their trusted agent so as to receive eROs from shipping lines on their behalf.

     * A one-time authorization remains valid until it is withdrawn.

  4. My customer (i.e. consignee) is not a registered company in Hong Kong nor does he/ she has an office here. Does he/ she need to sign up for eRO service? How to do so?

     Regardless of office location, a consignee who has an import container to be picked up in Hong Kong must sign up for eRO service before he/ she can authorize* an agent for further handling. A company with registered office outside Hong Kong can sign up for eRO service at http://reg.oneport.com/; the proof of a valid business registration must be provided for identity verification purpose.

     * A one-time authorization remains valid until it is withdrawn.

  5. Our company does not own any trucks nor TID cards issued by Kwai Tsing container terminals. However, we need to arrange trucking for our customers. Which role should we sign up?

     If you do not own any trucks nor 5-digit TID cards issued by Kwai Tsing container terminals while you need to arrange trucking for your customers, you should sign up as a “trucking agent”. Upon registration, you will receive a 6-digit OnePort Company ID and you will be able to forward eROs of your customers to trucking companies.

  6. Though I am primarily a trucking agent, I also perform other roles to handle import related matters. Can I sign up for multiple accounts for different roles?

     Yes. Each company can register multiple accounts for different roles on need basis. An individual account with unique OnePort Company ID will be assigned to each role. If you need to obtain DOs from liners on behalf of your customers, you need to sign up for eRO service as both “trucking agent” and “consignee agent” separately.

  7. I am a customer of OnePort and have a valid OnePort Company ID. Am I automatically being enrolled for eRO service? Why should I need to sign up again?

     No. Having a OnePort Company ID does not entitle you to be an eRO user. Adding eRO service to your existing membership requires submission of additional information and proper approval from OnePort for service activation. Though you have a valid OnePort Company ID, you still cannot use eRO service without going through proper eRO registration process. Upon successful registration of eRO service, an email containing login information (including passwords) will be sent to you.

  8. What is the key action that a trucking agent can perform in eRO platform?

     Upon receiving an eRO from your consignee customer, a trucking agent is only required to forward the eRO to your trucking partner (i.e. a trucking company which has a TID card issued by Kwai Tsing container terminals).

  9. If there is a change of plate number in relation to the pickup of a container that I am handling, what should I do in eRO system?

     When you receive the eRO from your consignee on eRO platform, you are only required to forward the eRO to your trucking company so as to finish your part. You need NOT handle subsequent works (e.g. assignment/ re-assignment of plate number and driver); these works will be completed by your trucking company.

     For your further information, OnePort offers mobile app HKiPort eRO to trucking company. HKiPort eRO provides convenience to trucking company and allows them to assign/ change plate number and driver anywhere, anytime.

  10. Have all liners/ freight forwarders joined eRO service? Will we receive updates from them?

      For benefits of the port community in Hong Kong, OnePort welcomes all liners and forwarders to join eRO service to provide localized solution for import release with the aim to improve overall productivity and cost saving through synergy among various stakeholders. Helping members of the port community to gradually migrate to eRO platform, OnePort will fully open eRO service by lines and by phases. Thus, different liners have different timetables. As for freight forwarders, consignees can start to use the service upon registration by their forwarders. OnePort will centralize the announcement of latest developments; please closely follow our news updates to be posted on www.OnePort.com.

  11. When will the full implementation of electronic release for import containers take place?

      OnePort has started trial with a number of liners, freight forwarders, consignees and trucking companies since 2016. Over years of operations optimization, Kwai Tsing container terminals have fully implemented electronic release of import containers since February 2020. In response to the need of the community, paper DOs are still accepted in the transition until further notice.

  12. Does the service only cover import containers? Does it extend to “loose cargoes”?

      eRO service facilitates handling of import containers only; it does NOT extend to “loose cargoes”.

  13. Beside Kwai Tsing container terminals, is eRO implemented at other terminals or depots?

      Yes. Beside Kwai Tsing container terminals*, eRO is/ will be gradually implemented at depots referred by liners (e.g. APS, RTT, China Merchants Wharf).

      * including Asia Container Terminals Limited (“ACT”), COSCO-HIT Terminals (Hong Kong) Limited (“CHT”), Hong Kong Container Terminal 3 (“CT3”), Hongkong International Terminals Limited (“HIT”), and Modern Terminals Limited (“MTL”)