Reference point in Türkiye’s automotive logistics: Autoport

Stating that the region became Türkiye’s production base with the rapidly developing automotive investments in and around Izmit in the late 1990s, İşler said that the domestic market grew and exports gained momentum. However, İşler pointed out that there was a lack of a port infrastructure specifically designed for the automotive sector to carry this growth, and stated that Autoport was implemented by anticipating this gap. Emphasizing that as Türkiye’s first automotive specialized terminal, they designed a model that would respond not only to current needs but also to the scales of the future, İşler expressed that their vision was to establish a terminal structure that works integrated with production centers, manages high volumes uninterruptedly, and enables sustainable growth. He stated that they see that this strategic approach has become a standard-setting model in the sector at the point reached today.

Competitive advantage provided by strategic location

Stating that Autoport's location in Başiskele, Kocaeli was a conscious strategic choice, İşler said that proximity to the main production centers in the Marmara Region provides operational speed and cost advantage, while also providing direct access to Türkiye’s largest domestic market and the main logistics networks of distributors. Stating that this location combines export and domestic distribution processes on a single logistical backbone, İşler stated that short road distances reduce costs while decreasing carbon emissions, and the integration of the Gulf of Izmit into major maritime trade routes provides fast and reliable access to global markets. As a result, he stated that they offer their customers a strong competitive advantage on the axis of speed, cost, and sustainability. 

Being a reference point in the sector

Stating that Autoport is one of the reference points in Turkish automotive logistics today, İşler said that they position themselves not only as a terminal but as a critical component and strategic solution partner of the automotive value chain. Stating that the most important value they add to the sector is the infrastructure designed with high expertise, operational reliability, and the ability to manage large-scale volumes uninterruptedly, İşler stated that in this way, they provide a predictable, plannable, and competitive logistics environment, especially for export-oriented manufacturers.

High capacity, strong operational discipline

Reminding that they have an annual handling capacity of 650 thousand CEU, İşler said that they use a strong operational discipline and advanced digital infrastructure to manage this scale. Stating that they manage all processes from ship programs to field layout, from inventory management to vehicle movements in real-time through an integrated terminal operation system, İşler stated that with the completion of the Autoport Sea Terminal Modernization and Expansion Project, the construction works of which will start very soon, the annual vehicle handling capacity will reach 1.1 million CEU. Expressing that they measure efficiency not only by volume but by process quality and operational continuity, İşler said that thanks to standardized operation models and a high-competence team structure, they maintain their performance sustainably even during the busiest periods. He stated that taking on a critical role in reaching the goals of their customers is both a source of responsibility and motivation for them.

Simultaneous operation and digital integration

Stating that the capability of simultaneous operation at two berths provides a significant advantage for line operators at the point where time is most critical, İşler said that they make the operational flow uninterrupted by minimizing ship waiting times, especially during high-volume and busy periods. Emphasizing that information flow is at least as critical as physical operations in automotive logistics, İşler stated that thanks to the advanced terminal operating system and strong EDI integrations, all stakeholders can monitor vehicle movements and stock status instantaneously. He expressed that this transparency forms the basis of speed, trust, and coordination in the supply chain.

Investments empowering exports

Stating that the Turkish automotive sector maintains its leadership in exports, İşler said that Autoport is positioned as one of the important building blocks of this success. He stated that they directly support the global competitive power of the sector by managing high-volume vehicle flow in a safe, fast, and planned manner. Stating that they continue their investments without interruption in line with this vision, İşler expressed that they will significantly increase capacity and operational flexibility with the Modernization and Expansion Project they will launch in 2026. Saying that with the completion of the project in the second half of 2028, the vehicle parking capacity will increase from 15 thousand to 23 thousand, and the simultaneous ship acceptance capacity will increase from 2 to 3, İşler also stated that a new Ro-Ro ramp that will provide stern-to mooring capability will be put into service. He stated that this investment will carry Autoport to an even stronger position on a regional scale.

Sustainability and green port vision

Emphasizing that sustainability is no longer a choice but a fundamental necessity of the sector, İşler said that as Autoport, they place environmental responsibility at the center of all operations. Expressing that they directly reduce emissions by minimizing highway distances thanks to the location advantage, İşler stated that they systematically lower the carbon footprint through energy efficiency, equipment modernization, and process optimizations. He stated that their goal is to put forward a sustainable and exemplary terminal model that reduces environmental impact while growing.

Preparation for the future with digitalization

Stating that digitalization has become one of the most critical factors determining competitive advantage in the sector, İşler said that they adopt an approach that not only follows but also directs this transformation. Expressing that they have built a smarter, faster, and more predictable operational structure with investments in data analytics, system integrations, and process automation, İşler added that they are moving forward with the goal of carrying Autoport to the logistics standards of the future by supporting the physical capacity increase with a strong digital infrastructure.