Seacon logistics: “By outsourcing gas measurements, we focus on our core activities”
When a partnership has lasted nearly 15 years, it’s safe to call it a successful match. That’s certainly the case with Seacon Logistics and Customs Support Safety – a collaboration that Alexander de Winter hopes will continue for many years to come. “We trust them completely.”
For years, Customs Support Safety has carried out gas measurements for containers and enclosed spaces at Seacon. Various products emit gases, which in confined areas can quickly reach hazardous levels, posing health risks.
De Winter, Multi-site Manager at Seacon, explains: “In the beginning, we handled the gas measurements ourselves. Our staff received specific training and did the measurements alongside their other duties. It wasn’t practical at all. Since 2012, we’ve been relying on Customs Support Safety to carry out this work. It’s their area of expertise, and it shows.”
Hundreds of gas measurements annually
Rob Gielen, Head of Operations at Customs Support Safety, adds: “We don’t measure every single container, but work based on sampling. By conducting risk assessments, we can identify which cargo flows are safe. That means not everything needs to be checked – it’s both cost-efficient and effective. Some cargo types are sampled, while others require a more intensive approach. In 2024, we performed gas measurements on several hundred of Seacon’s containers, resulting in a rejection rate of just over 15%.”
Advice on reducing gas-related risks
“Gas measurements are essential to our logistics chain, and we place our full trust in Customs Support Safety. What I find particularly valuable is that they don’t just measure – they also advise us on how to reduce risks. They help us improve our processes by introducing new technologies and methods.” – Alexander de Winter (Seacon). “
Gielen agrees: “We aim to go beyond standard solutions. We take our responsibilities seriously and think along throughout the entire process. Seacon involves us in advance of their shipments, which leads to better results and greater efficiency.”
Swift response to hazardous fumes in the warehouse
Alexander de Winter recalls an incident from a few years ago that demonstrates the depth of their collaboration. Rob Gielen remembers it clearly too: “The containers were deemed safe according to the risk analysis. However, once in the warehouse, they emitted harmful fumes.” De Winter elaborates: “While unloading, our staff experienced health complaints – dizziness and nausea, among other symptoms.”
“We called in Customs Support Safety to investigate the situation. Their gas measurements revealed that, when exposed to high temperatures, the products released chemical substances.” These products had been classified as ‘green’ – supposedly safe. A follow-up with the manufacturer revealed the issue. Rob explains: “There had been a change in the production process compared to the prototypes. Instead of being sprayed, the wooden products were now submerged in a chemical bath. Spraying causes rapid evaporation, while dipping leads to saturation. Saturated wood releases fumes over a longer period. Combined with high temperatures inside the container, this caused the problem.”
Effective safety solutions
De Winter vividly remembers the effective solutions provided by Customs Support Safety. “Our employees were equipped with breathing masks, and the goods were moved to a specially ventilated area. Active and passive ventilation was used to safely disperse the harmful vapours. That way, we could store the pallets without endangering our staff or the environment.”
“This incident perfectly illustrates why we trust Customs Support Safety. They not only brought the situation under control quickly, but also helped identify the cause and advised us in our communication with the supplier.”
“That’s the added value of our partnership,” says Rob.
“The local aspect of our partnership further strengthens our relationship,” notes Alexander. Seacon may have ten warehouses across Limburg – and one in Hungary – but its roots are in Venlo. The same goes for Customs Support Safety. Alexander adds: “We prefer working with local partners. It fits our vision of socially responsible business. Their proximity allows them to respond quickly and flexibly when needed.”
Cost savings through outsourcing gas measurements
“Had we kept the gas measurements in-house, we would have faced high costs and inefficiency. Outsourcing has saved us both time and money – and improved quality” – Alexander de Winter
Rob nods in agreement: “By outsourcing the gas measurements to us, Seacon can focus on their core business without concern. We stay up-to-date with developments in the market and continuously evolve in our area of expertise. We offer scalability and continuity – that makes us an attractive partner for many companies.”
Rob praises the trust Seacon places in Customs Support Safety: “Our partnership is unique. Being involved early in the process leads to better outcomes. Trust is the foundation of our collaboration – and it’s evident in the open and honest way we interact.”
Alexander adds that the relationship goes beyond business: “We often run into each other at VVV-Venlo football matches. Sure, we talk about work for a few minutes, but then it’s football, world events, or personal matters. That’s what defines a real working relationship – genuine connection.”
Socially and locally engaged
Both companies are socially engaged. “Customs Support Safety understands our mission and vision. They help us realise these goals by contributing ideas on topics such as sustainability. It’s more than just a business relationship – it’s a shared effort for a better future.”
Rob agrees wholeheartedly: “We support Seacon in their sustainability objectives, such as CO2 reduction and environmentally friendly solutions. It’s a partnership aimed not only at business success but also at adding value to society and the local economy.”
