Vopak welcomes SAMPLIFLY !
By ADLC
- (Petro)chemical
- Services

SGS and A Drone Logistics Company (ADLC) are proud to announce a new partnership with Vopak ACS for SAMPLIFLY, the groundbreaking service that quickly and safely transports (petro)chemical analysis samples by drone to the SGS laboratory for quality testing. SGS and ADLC have been operating the drone transport service for eight months in the Port of Antwerp-Bruges. With SAMPLIFLY, Vopak increases its efficiency and focuses on sustainable innovation.
SGS - the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company - analyses more than 60,000 samples annually for its clients in the port of Antwerp. In collaboration with ADLC, a freight drone airline, analysis samples are transported safely and efficiently using a computer-controlled autonomous drone that operates beyond the pilot's field of vision (BVLOS - Beyond Visual Line Of Sight).
This drone is designed to cover distances of up to 50 km with a load of up to 15 kg. This innovative drone logistics allows SGS to reduce the transport time of analysis samples by up to six times and reduce CO2 emissions by 80%. Safety always comes first.
The pilot monitors the flight remotely via a control system, so that immediate intervention can be taken and safety is guaranteed. Logistics drone flights for petrochemical products in an industrial environment are subject to the strictest (inter)national aviation regulations.
Looking ahead, SAMPLIFLY will soon be expanded to Vopak Terminal Linkeroever on the left side of the Port of Antwerp. This will extend the existing network to the other side of the Scheldt, adding even more value. This expansion is part of SGS and ADLC’s ongoing commitment to continuously improve logistics and supply chain management with sustainable, cutting-edge solutions.
Vopak
« At Vopak, we constantly strive to optimize our terminal activities, not only in terms of operational processes but also in the services for our customers. We are continuously looking for the latest technologies and how they can create value for our stakeholders. Participating in SAMPLIFLY, a project that combines innovation and sustainability, was therefore a logical choice for us. The faster availability of analysis results enables us to significantly optimize vessel operations for our customers and accelerate the lead time of quay occupation. Each activity is carefully assessed at Vopak in terms of safety, quality, and efficiency. We look forward to a fruitful collaboration that will not only benefit our own operations, but also contribute to a more efficient and sustainable future for the entire logistics sector. »
Terminal Manager at Vopak ACS
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