Source: Logistics Initiative Hamburg, TOP Mehrwert-Logistik & H. Beckröge Getränkefachgroßhandels GmbH
Quiet, emission-free deliveries on Hamburg’s waterways
Can deliveries within the city be carried out quietly, emission-free, and efficiently – without traffic jams, stress, or burden on residents and drivers?
This is the question they are currently answering in Hamburg as part of the so-called Freight Flow Coaltion No. 3 of the InnoWaTr project. In September, they launched their first pilot runs on the Alster lake and Alster channels. The project partners Logistics Initiative Hamburg and TOP Mehrwert-Logistik GmbH & Co. KG, supported by the Freight Flow Coalition members Beckröge (beverage wholesaler) as well as Schiffswerft von Cölln (operator of the Cöllni electric vessel), they successfully completed their first ever emission-free beverage delivery by water.
For the trial, the fully electric, exceptionally quiet, and environmentally sustainable workboat Cöllni from Schiffswerft von Cölln GmbH & Co. was deployed. The delivery was made to one of Beckröges customers - a restaurant directly located on the Alster canals. Following this successful first test, further deliveries will take place in the coming weeks, expanding to longer routes and multiple customers such as restaurants, bars, and rowing clubs – of which there are many along the Alster lake and its canals.
Source: Logistics Initiative Hamburg, TOP Mehrwert-Logistik & H. Beckröge Getränkefachgroßhandels GmbH
How are they putting their goals into practice?
By utilizing fully electric boats and making use of Hamburg’s extensive network of canals and waterways, they can directly implement the project’s objectives. E-boats can cross the city compactly, quietly, and emission-free – unburdened by traffic congestion and without harming the environment. Early indicators point to benefits not only for the environment, but also for delivery times, traffic reduction, and the quality of life of city residents.
Source: Logistics Initiative Hamburg, TOP Mehrwert-Logistik & H. Beckröge Getränkefachgroßhandels GmbH
How did the pilot run work in practice?
On a Wednesday morning, the recently renovated, fully electric Cöllni vessel was loaded at the A.T.G. Alsterwerft with a wholesale beverage delivery. It then traveled via the Osterbek Canal and Langer Zug to a customer of beverage wholesaler Beckröge. Several pallets of beverages were easily loaded onboard. Delivery on site was quick, smooth, and uncomplicated, as the waterway provided direct access to the storage area.
Source: Logistics Initiative Hamburg, TOP Mehrwert-Logistik & H. Beckröge Getränkefachgroßhandels GmbH
Why are waterways a viable alternative to conventional delivery methods?
The pilot confirmed the advantages over traditional delivery methods. Road-based deliveries often worsen Hamburg’s traffic situation. Delivery vehicles block roads, footpaths, and bicycle lanes, and must frequently stop in areas not intended for loading and unloading. Traditional delivery methods also present challenges for drivers themselves, especially at restaurants and bars along the Alster: carrying heavy loads over narrow stairs, jetties, and long walking distances, or dealing with hazards caused by cyclists and pedestrians. Waterborne deliveries avoid these problems – faster, quieter, and more environmentally friendly.
Source: Logistics Initiative Hamburg, TOP Mehrwert-Logistik & H. Beckröge Getränkefachgroßhandels GmbH
What’s Next?
Our pilot run shows: waterborne deliveries are not just a vision for the future in Hamburg – they are feasible today: efficient, sustainable, and practical for everyday use. The insights gained from InnoWaTr project provide the foundation for making Hamburg’s logistics even smarter and help pave the way toward further eco-friendly delivery solutions.
In the coming weeks, we will continue extended test runs to additional customers along the Alster and its canals. These will help us collect further data and experience on how emission-free deliveries by boat can contribute to sustainable urban logistics and the mobility transition.
We would like to express our sincere thanks to H. Beckröge Getränkefachgroßhandels GmbH and Schiffswerft von Cölln GmbH & Co. for their strong support and cooperation as part of our Freight Flow Coalition!
More information about the pilot test (in German) here
Authors: Tony Perkovic, Thomas Brauner (Logistics Initiative Hamburg)