BHT Reference Service — Export via Bremerhaven
Bremerhaven is Europe's fourth-largest container port and one of the world's top automotive export hubs. Every export shipment leaving Bremerhaven requires a BHT reference number — registered through the Bremen Harbour Telematics system. We handle this entire process on your behalf, ensuring your MRN is closed and you receive your CC599C confirmation.
What Is BHT (Bremen Harbour Telematics)?
BHT — Bremen Harbour Telematics — is the port community system (PCS) that manages all customs-related data exchange for the ports of Bremen and Bremerhaven. It is developed and operated by dbh Logistics IT AG, a Bremen-based company specializing in port and logistics IT solutions.
The BHT system serves as the digital bridge between exporters, freight forwarders, terminal operators, and German customs (Zoll). When you export goods through Bremerhaven, the BHT reference number links your export declaration in the ATLAS customs system with the physical container at the terminal. Without this registration, customs cannot confirm that your goods have left the EU, and your MRN remains open.
The system handles approximately 4.9 million TEU per year (2025 data) and is integrated with all major Bremerhaven container terminals.
BHT vs Z-Nummer: Different Ports, Different Systems
One of the most common sources of confusion in German port logistics is the difference between BHT and ZAPP. While both systems serve the same fundamental purpose — registering export shipments and enabling customs closure — they are entirely separate platforms:
| Feature | BHT (Bremerhaven) | ZAPP/EMP (Hamburg) |
|---|---|---|
| Operator | dbh Logistics IT AG | DAKOSY AG |
| Ports covered | Bremerhaven, Bremen | Hamburg |
| Reference type | BHT reference number | Z-Nummer |
| Account required | dbh account | DAKOSY account |
If your container was originally booked through Hamburg but is diverted to Bremerhaven (or vice versa), the registration must be transferred to the correct port system. We handle such transfers seamlessly, as we maintain active accounts in both systems.
How the BHT Reference Process Works
The BHT reference process follows a clear sequence: the export data is registered in the BHT system, validated against the German ATLAS customs system, matched with the physical container gate-in at the terminal, and finally confirmed by customs, which issues the CC599C exit confirmation after vessel departure.
Automotive Exports via BLG AutoTerminal
Bremerhaven is one of the world's largest automotive export ports. The BLG AutoTerminal handles over 2 million vehicles per year, making it the busiest vehicle handling facility in Europe. Major manufacturers including Volkswagen, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Tesla use Bremerhaven as their primary export gateway.
Automotive exports via RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) vessels have specific BHT registration requirements that differ from standard container exports. Vehicle identification numbers (VINs) must be matched to export declarations, and the terminal handling process follows a different workflow compared to container terminals.
Our team has extensive experience with automotive export registrations through BHT. Whether you are exporting individual vehicles or large batches, we ensure the correct BHT reference is assigned and the MRN is properly closed.
Our 4-Step Process
Submit MRN + container details
Provide your MRN, container number (or VINs for automotive), and booking reference through our panel, email, or API.
BHT registration
We create the export port order in the BHT system, linking your MRN to the container and assigning the correct terminal.
Customs monitoring
We monitor the gate-in, ATLAS validation, and customs release status. If any issues arise, we coordinate directly with the customs office and terminal.
CC599C confirmation
Once the export is confirmed and the vessel departs, we deliver your CC599C exit confirmation as proof of export.
Pricing
From €20 per individual filing.
Package of 50 filings: €950 (save 5%).
All prices are net (excluding VAT). Automotive and RoRo exports may be priced individually. Initial verification is always free.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between BHT and ZAPP (Z-Nummer)?
BHT is the port community system for Bremerhaven and Bremen, operated by dbh Logistics IT AG. ZAPP (now EMP) is the equivalent system for Hamburg, operated by DAKOSY AG. Both link export declarations to container movements, but they are completely separate systems. An export through Bremerhaven needs a BHT reference, not a Z-Nummer.
Can you handle automotive exports through BLG AutoTerminal?
Yes. We have extensive experience with RoRo automotive export registrations through BHT. We handle the specific VIN-matching and terminal workflow requirements that differ from standard container exports.
How long does BHT reference processing take?
Standard processing is 2–4 hours after container gate-in. Retroactive closures typically take 24–48 hours. Automotive exports via BLG may have slightly different timelines due to specific terminal handling procedures.
Do I need a dbh account to register a BHT reference?
No. We handle the entire registration through our own dbh/BHT account. You do not need to register with dbh Logistics IT or learn the system. Simply provide the MRN and container details, and we take care of the rest.
Close MRN in Bremerhaven — from €15
We cover 8 European ports. Average processing time: 2-4 hours.