Ultracargo carried out its first Ship-To-Barge (STB) fuel transfer operation, using the pier lines of the Vila do Conde Terminal (PA) – an unprecedented progress that optimizes the movement of fuels in the region by allowing the direct loading of barges from the ship, using the already licensed line, without the need for intermediate tank storage.

This new operation mode reduced 1/3 of the usual transfer time – still with potential for future improvement – making the process smoother and more efficient for customers and expanding the terminal’s logistic operation capacity. The operation is supervised and carried out by Ultracargo, since arrival of the ship with fuel to its distribution via transfer to barges, guaranteeing total control and safety for the process, but relying also on the indispensable involvement of the Port Authority, as well as the customers and vessels allocated for the process.

Among the main benefits, stand out:

• Operational efficiency: transfer time reduced by 33%;
• Optimization of the port infrastructure and costs: freeing up storage tank capacity, enabling faster turnover of bulk products and making new operations possible;
• Making the supply of Marine Diesel Oil (MDO) feasible: offering a strategic solution for its regional supply.

The operation requires increased levels of compliance regarding regulatory controls, performance of specific safety training, as well as ongoing in-depth analyses to keep up the quality of the infrastructure and products involved. Moreover, the strict command exchange process adopted by the company ensured safe integration between the different vessels involved, considering the operational limitations of each asset and ensuring compliance with all pertinent regulatory and environmental requirements.

The implementation of this innovative operation method was also a strategic step forward for the company, by strengthening waterway operational coordination in the North region, a market with great growth potential, despite still lacking efficient fuel distribution solutions. With the increasing demand, and growing grain harvests in the North Arch of Brazil, the operation by Ultracargo meets the rising demand for competitive local vessels, in line with the company’s internalization strategy and commitment to efficient and integrated operational logistic solutions. It will also help consolidate the region as a strategic hub for agricultural transportation, expanding fuel supply and boosting the country’s logistic infrastructure.