Car terminal operator PT Indonesia Kendaraan Terminal Tbk (IPCC) plans to expand its satellite terminal in Makassar after yard occupancy levels exceeded optimal capacity for the second consecutive month, underscoring the terminal’s growing strategic role in the country’s eastern logistics network.
The yard occupancy ratio (YOR) at IPCC’s Makassar Satellite Terminal has remained above 60% since July, beyond the industry threshold for efficient operations.
The state-affiliated port operator said the expansion aims to ensure smoother cargo flow and accommodate rising demand in vehicle distribution across eastern Indonesia.
“Makassar has become a key hub for vehicle distribution in the eastern region. The sustained high YOR is a strong indicator of growth, but it also signals the urgent need to boost capacity,” said Herry Ardianto, IPCC’s Independent Commissioner, during a management walkthrough (site visit) on Monday, September 29.
The inspection, part of a management walkthrough on September 29, involved IPCC commissioners and directors reviewing terminal conditions and identifying land for potential expansion. One option includes repurposing parts of the adjacent Makassar Container Terminal (TPM) to serve as overflow space for vehicle storage.
Rising Throughput Spurs Expansion
According to company data, ship calls and cargo volume at the Makassar terminal have continued to rise. In August alone, the terminal handled 50 ship calls, up from the same period last year. From January through August, the terminal recorded 365 ship calls, a slight increase from 361 in the same period of 2024.
Throughput has also shown a notable rise. As of August 2025, IPCC handled 150,447 units, including 59,042 completely built-up (CBU) vehicles, 3,155 units of heavy equipment, 17,679 buses and trucks, and 74,503 motorcycles.
“As one of our fastest-growing satellite terminals, Makassar remains a priority. The planned land expansion is part of our commitment to stay ahead of demand and continue supporting the automotive logistics chain,” Ardianto added.
Supporting EV Distribution in Eastern Indonesia
The site visit also included a stop at the Makassar Container Terminal Pier, which IPCC is eyeing as part of a broader port integration strategy.
The facility is expected to play a role in bolstering electric vehicle (EV) distribution, an area aligned with government efforts to expand EV adoption across the archipelago.
“IPCC is strategically positioned to facilitate EV distribution to regions like Sulawesi, Maluku, and Papua,” said Wing Megantoro, IPCC’s Director of Finance, Human Resources, and Risk Management.
“Enhancing our port infrastructure from Jakarta to Makassar is key to supporting this national initiative,” he said further.
The proposed expansion is expected to help IPCC keep pace with the evolving demands of the national automotive supply chain. Officials say a more adaptive and integrated terminal in Makassar will not only improve operational efficiency but also support Indonesia’s broader logistics ambitions in the region.