Innovative systems, particularly the use of portable drop tank technology for loading and unloading liquid bulk cargo, such as Crude Palm Oil (CPO), have significantly reduced operational costs at PTP Nonpetikemas’ Pangkal Balam Branch.
In a recent statement to the Indonesia Shipping Gazette, PTP Nonpetikemas reported a remarkable decrease in the operating cost at Pangkal Balam Port—dropping more than 30% in 2024, from IDR 4,000 to IDR 2,800 per ton. This cost reduction was largely driven by a series of innovations, particularly the implementation of portable drop tanks.
PTP Nonpetikemas is committed to continuous innovation to enhance operational performance. One key development in 2024 was the introduction of a portable drop tank system, equipped with a submersible pump, to handle liquid bulk cargo, especially CPO, at Pangkal Balam.
Previously, the process of unloading from trucks and loading onto barges used a conventional operating model, known as truck losing, which took a considerable amount of time.
With the new drop tank system, the truck losing process was replaced by a more efficient drop tank system. This allows up to four trucks to load and unload simultaneously, and the liquid cargo is pumped directly into the barge using an electric pump. As a result, this innovation has led to faster turnaround times, reduced port stays, and lower labor costs.
In addition to improving operational efficiency, the new system has positively impacted Health, Safety, Security, and Environmental (HSSE) aspects. The environmentally friendly solution helps reduce risks of water and air pollution, aligning with PTP Nonpetikemas’ commitment to sustainability.
“The latest innovation at Pangkal Balam Port has not only reduced operational costs but also improved overall operational performance. The portable drop tank system, equipped with submersible pumps, offers a more effective and efficient way to unload trucks and load barges,” said Dwi Rahmad Toto S., Commercial and Business Development Director of PTP Nonpetikemas.
ENHANCING EFFICIENCY
Echoing the view, Alamsyah, Branch Manager of PTP Nonpetikemas Pangkal Balam, explained that the innovation has significantly reduced the operating and maintenance cost.
“The new system has reduced operational and maintenance costs from IDR 4,000 per ton to IDR 2,800 per ton. The system also enhances pumping efficiency, with a pump capacity of 200 tons per hour and a 6-inch diameter hose, significantly shortening loading and unloading times,” said Alamsyah.
“Previously, the pump’s capacity was only 40 tons per hour with a 4-inch hose. Additionally, the drop tank process allows us to serve four unloading trucks in a single operation,” he added.
As the palm oil plantations in the hinterland of Pangkal Balam Port continue to expand annually, the implementation of this innovative system has made a significant impact on operational processes. Previously, there was no system in place to monitor loading and unloading progress in real time. Now, with the new system, operations can be tracked more accurately, enabling ongoing improvements. The system is also integrated with the Pelindo Terminal Operating System Multipurpose (PTOSM).
Since the implementation of the Submersible Pump and Drop Tank system in the second half of 2024, Pangkal Balam Port’s operational performance has seen significant improvements. This is reflected in a surge in Ton/Gang/Hour (TGH) from 46.49 in 2023 to 114.05 in 2024. The port’s operational cost ratio (BOPO) also improved, dropping from 75.74% in January 2024 to 68.69% in January 2025.
COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABILITY AND PRODUCTIVITY
As a leading non-container terminal in Indonesia, PTP Nonpetikemas remains dedicated to enhancing productivity through sustainable innovations. The company continues to support the smooth flow of logistics by offering high-quality facilities and services. Moreover, PTP Nonpetikemas maintains a strong focus on HSSE aspects to ensure that all innovations consider environmental sustainability.
The Pangkal Balam Branch serves a wide range of commodities from the agricultural, plantation, and industrial sectors, including fertilizers, cement, building materials, rubber, oil cake, shells, and containers.
The port operates a multipurpose terminal with multiple docks, including Concrete Dock, Sheet Pile Docks 1 and 2, Sailboat Dock, and Ketapang I Dock.