Gateway project drives Finnlines’ digital transformation in port operations

Finnlines is taking the next step in its digital transformation. The Gateway Project, launched in 2024 as a design initiative together with Finnsteve, aims to revolutionise the trailer gate process through automation, data integration, and user-friendly technology.

Developed in close cooperation with customer companies and their drivers and terminal personnel, Gateway represents a shared vision for smoother, faster, and safer logistics.

“From the beginning, our goal was to create a solution that truly supports the people who use it every day. By involving customers and our own teams in the design, we have ensured that Finnlines Gateway will serve real operational needs while offering the highest level of technical reliability,” says Mikko Juuti, Project Manager at Finnsteve.

A seamless experience for drivers and customers

Gateway combines Finnlines’ booking system, the terminal operator’s system, and a new Customer Mobile App into one integrated environment.

Through the app, drivers can perform trailer self-service check-ins directly from their smartphone, check their bookings along with import discharge statuses, receive gate instructions, and many more valuable tasks. At the same time, real-time data sharing improves coordination between shipping, stevedoring, and customers – cutting waiting times and reducing unnecessary idling both at the gate and onboard.

The result is a system that enhances efficiency, safety, and sustainability, while delivering a more predictable and transparent service for customers.

From design to implementation

After the design phase in 2024, the project moved into implementation during spring 2025. Gateway has now entered its beta-testing stage at the Vuosaari Terminal in Helsinki, where it will be piloted for trailer traffic.

The full launch is expected in January 2026, when the automated gate service will be available 24/7 for trailer customers. Later phases will expand the system to other ports within the Finnlines network.

Driving innovation at the terminals

Gateway represents more than a new technology – it manifests Finnlines’ long-term commitment to continuous improvement and sustainable logistics.

“Automation helps us serve our customers faster, more safely, and with consistent quality,” Mikko adds. “Gateway is not only about smarter processes; it’s about building the digital foundation for the next generation of our terminal operations,” he concludes.