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HHLA History

HHLA History

Since our founding in the year 1885, we at HHLA have been shaping the logistics of the future: From the first forklifts to automated transport vehicles to the digital networking of the entire logistics chain – innovation was and is our drive. Today, as a European network logistics provider, we connect people, goods, and markets with efficient and environmentally friendly technologies. Our history is the foundation for the future – and we continue to drive progress forward.

Today

Today

Today
The Power of Networks
As a European network logistics provider, we at HHLA ensure the smooth, reliable functioning of our daily lives and our economy. Together with our clients and partners, we create resilient, efficient, and sustainable logistics solutions, building on smart concepts and the power of our networks.
2024
Expansion of our Intermodal Network
Our intermodal network is growing: With the integration of Roland Spedition, the largest privately-owned provider of eco-friendly hinterland transport in Austria, we strengthen our intermodal connections and expand our presence in Central Europe.
2022
Hydrogen Innovation Cluster
At HHLA, we focus on testing hydrogen as an alternative energy source and establish the Clean Port & Logistics Innovation Cluster to develop groundbreaking solutions for sustainable logistics.
2021
HHLA Next: Shaping the Future
With the founding of HHLA Next, our innovation and venture building unit, we promote digitalization and sustainability in maritime logistics. We invest in forward-thinking start-ups such as HHLA Sky and in successful companies like automation specialist iSAM.
2021
New HHLA Logistics Hub in the Adriatic
We strengthen our presence in the Adriatic region through the acquisition of the multi-purpose terminal Piattaforma Logistica Trieste, which now operates under the name HHLA PLT Italy . This step further expands our logistics connections in Southern Europe.
2020
A Pioneering Project for the Future
To this day, the largest brownfield project in the industry is running at Container Terminal Burchardkai (CTB). We are gradually developing Germany’s largest container terminal during ongoing operations into a state-of-the-art, automated, and efficient HHLA container hub in our European network.
2018
Network Expansion into the Baltic Region
We are strengthening our position in the Baltic region through the acquisition of Transiidikeskuse AS, the largest terminal operator in Estonia. Our terminal, HHLA TK Estonia, expands our network in the region and reinforces our position in the international port market.
2015
World Heritage Speicherstadt
The Hamburg Speicherstadt, the city's historical warehouse district, which is managed by HHLA Real Estate is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, alongside the neighboring Kontorhausviertel.
2012
Intermodal Focus
Through a restructuring, Deutsche Bahn transfers its shares in the logistics providers METRANS and Polzug, which specialise in indermodal transport, to HHLA. This strategic move allows us to focus our activities on efficient rail connections to the hinterland.
2005-2007
Going Public with a New Name
Since 2005, HHLA operates under the name "Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG" as we prepare for our stock market debut. On November 2, 2007, 30 percent of our share capital is traded on the stock exchange for the first time.
2004
Reconstruction for More Efficiency at HHLA Container Terminal Burchardkai
In 2004, the comprehensive modernization of our HHLA Container Terminal Burchardkai (CTB) in Hamburg begins. The goal is to further develop CTB during ongoing operations, following the model of Container Terminal Altenwerder.
2002
Opening of HHLA Container Terminal Altenwerder
After just four years of planning and construction, we inaugurate the HHLA Container Terminal Altenwerder (CTA) in Hamburg with a grand ceremony. With its high level of automation, CTA sets new standards in container handling and is also one of the most sustainable terminals of its kind.
2001
Container Terminal Odessa
In 2001, we receive the concession to operate the HHLA Container Terminal Odessa (CTO) in Ukraine, further strengthening our presence in the region.
1996
Tollerort: Our Second Container Terminal in Hamburg
We acquire the Container Terminal Tollerort (CTT) from Gerd Buss Lager- und Speditionsgesellschaft, expanding our capacities in the Port of Hamburg.
1994
Redevelopment of the Speicherstadt
In the Speicherstadt, Hamburg's historical warehouse district, HHLA Real Estate converts the first warehouse blocks, which have long ceased to be used for goods storage, into modern and attractive office spaces.
1992
Engagement in Ukraine
Our engagement in Ukraine begins with a consulting project by our subsidiary Hamburg Port Consulting (HPC) in Odessa as part of an EU program.
1991
Expansion of Rail Services to Eastern and Central Europe
The logistics providers Polzug and METRANS, our later merged HHLA rail subsidiaries, which focus on intermodal transport, establish the first rail connections to Eastern Europe and experience dynamic growth.
1982
All-Rounder O'Swaldkai
Hamburg gets a multipurpose facility: the HHLA O'Swaldkai Terminal, which meets all the requirements of port handling. Equipped with RoRo ramps (RollOn-RollOff), heavy-duty cranes, and container gantry cranes, the terminal is perfectly designed.
1976
Foundation of Hamburg Port Consulting
Founded in 1976, Hamburg Port Consulting (HPC) is established to make our HHLA expertise accessible to ports around the world. Today, HPC supports port operations worldwide with in-depth knowledge and innovative solutions.
1975
Participation in Hansaport
HHLA acquires a 49% stake in Hansaport Hafenbetriebsgesellschaft. The facility for coal and ores now handles up to 15 percent of the total throughput at the Port of Hamburg.
1972
HHLA’s First Subsidiaries
Since 1972, CTD Container-Transport-Dienst, our first HHLA subsidiary, has been organizing hinterland transport and port transshipment. Over time, more subsidiaries have been added.
1968
The Beginning of the Container Era
With the arrival of the first container ships in Hamburg, our HHLA Container Terminal Burchardkai becomes the first specialised facility for handling them . We develop and test innovative handling and transport techniques, which are quickly put to efficient use.
1966
Rolling Cargo Arrives at the Port of Hamburg
We convert a former British Army roll-on facility into the first RoRo (Roll-On/Roll-Off) terminal at the Port of Hamburg, setting a milestone in logistics.
1961
Innovative Fruit Logistics Make Hamburg a Leading Fruit Port
We build the most modern banana warehouse in Europe. Elevators transport the bananas into the storage halls while protecting them from the weather. Further innovations follow, establishing Hamburg as one of the world's leading fruit ports.
1952
Modern Forklifts Revolutionise Port Logistics
Until 1952, handcarts dominated port operations. With the introduction of modern forklifts for general cargo – heavy-duty forklifts already existed – stacking at HHLA becomes faster and more efficient.
1945
Reconstruction of the Port and Speicherstadt
During World War II, large parts of the Port of Hamburg and the Speicherstadt were destroyed. HHLA launches a massive reconstruction project – a key moment for Hamburg's port!
1935-1939
HFLG Takes Over Quay Management and Becomes HHLA
To balance the deficits of the State Quay Administration with the surpluses of our predecessor, Hamburger Freihafen-Lagerhaus-Gesellschaft (HFLG), both entities merged. In 1939, this resulted in the founding of "Hamburger Hafen- und Lagerhaus-Aktiengesellschaft" – today's HHLA.
07.03.1885
Founding of HFLG and Construction of the Speicherstadt
The Hamburger Freihafen-Lagerhaus-Gesellschaft (HFLG), our predecessor, is founded to build the Speicherstadt. Until today, it is the largest warehouse complex in the world.
1866
Founding of the Quay Administration and Opening of Sandtorkai
The opening of Sandtorkai marks the beginning of modern cargo handling directly at the quay edge in Hamburg. To support port operations, the Quay Administration is founded, which later merges with us at HHLA.

Heute

Heute
The Power of Networks
As a European network logistics provider, we at HHLA ensure the smooth, reliable functioning of our daily lives and our economy. Together with our clients and partners, we create resilient, efficient, and sustainable logistics solutions, building on smart concepts and the power of our networks.
2024
Expansion of our Intermodal Network
Our intermodal network is growing: With the integration of Roland Spedition, the largest privately-owned provider of eco-friendly hinterland transport in Austria, we strengthen our intermodal connections and expand our presence in Central Europe.
2022
Hydrogen Innovation Cluster
At HHLA, we focus on testing hydrogen as an alternative energy source and establish the Clean Port & Logistics Innovation Cluster to develop groundbreaking solutions for sustainable logistics.
2021
HHLA Next: Shaping the Future
With the founding of HHLA Next, our innovation and venture building unit, we promote digitalization and sustainability in maritime logistics. We invest in forward-thinking start-ups such as HHLA Sky and in successful companies like automation specialist iSAM.
2021
New HHLA Logistics Hub in the Adriatic
We strengthen our presence in the Adriatic region through the acquisition of the multi-purpose terminal Piattaforma Logistica Trieste, which now operates under the name HHLA PLT Italy . This step further expands our logistics connections in Southern Europe.
2020
A Pioneering Project for the Future
To this day, the largest brownfield project in the industry is running at Container Terminal Burchardkai (CTB). We are gradually developing Germany’s largest container terminal during ongoing operations into a state-of-the-art, automated, and efficient HHLA container hub in our European network.
2018
Network Expansion into the Baltic Region
We are strengthening our position in the Baltic region through the acquisition of Transiidikeskuse AS, the largest terminal operator in Estonia. Our terminal, HHLA TK Estonia, expands our network in the region and reinforces our position in the international port market.
2015
World Heritage Speicherstadt
The Hamburg Speicherstadt, the city's historical warehouse district, which is managed by HHLA Real Estate is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, alongside the neighboring Kontorhausviertel.
2012
Intermodal Focus
Through a restructuring, Deutsche Bahn transfers its shares in the logistics providers METRANS and Polzug, which specialise in indermodal transport, to HHLA. This strategic move allows us to focus our activities on efficient rail connections to the hinterland.
2005-2007
Going Public with a New Name
Since 2005, HHLA operates under the name "Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG" as we prepare for our stock market debut. On November 2, 2007, 30 percent of our share capital is traded on the stock exchange for the first time.
2004
Reconstruction for More Efficiency at HHLA Container Terminal Burchardkai
In 2004, the comprehensive modernization of our HHLA Container Terminal Burchardkai (CTB) in Hamburg begins. The goal is to further develop CTB during ongoing operations, following the model of Container Terminal Altenwerder.
2002
Opening of HHLA Container Terminal Altenwerder
After just four years of planning and construction, we inaugurate the HHLA Container Terminal Altenwerder (CTA) in Hamburg with a grand ceremony. With its high level of automation, CTA sets new standards in container handling and is also one of the most sustainable terminals of its kind.
2001
Container Terminal Odessa
In 2001, we receive the concession to operate the HHLA Container Terminal Odessa (CTO) in Ukraine, further strengthening our presence in the region.
1996
Tollerort: Our Second Container Terminal in Hamburg
We acquire the Container Terminal Tollerort (CTT) from Gerd Buss Lager- und Speditionsgesellschaft, expanding our capacities in the Port of Hamburg.
1994
Redevelopment of the Speicherstadt
In the Speicherstadt, Hamburg's historical warehouse district, HHLA Real Estate converts the first warehouse blocks, which have long ceased to be used for goods storage, into modern and attractive office spaces.
1992
Engagement in Ukraine
Our engagement in Ukraine begins with a consulting project by our subsidiary Hamburg Port Consulting (HPC) in Odessa as part of an EU program.
1991
Expansion of Rail Services to Eastern and Central Europe
The logistics providers Polzug and METRANS, our later merged HHLA rail subsidiaries, which focus on intermodal transport, establish the first rail connections to Eastern Europe and experience dynamic growth.
1982
All-Rounder O'Swaldkai
Hamburg gets a multipurpose facility: the HHLA O'Swaldkai Terminal, which meets all the requirements of port handling. Equipped with RoRo ramps (RollOn-RollOff), heavy-duty cranes, and container gantry cranes, the terminal is perfectly designed.
1976
Foundation of Hamburg Port Consulting
Founded in 1976, Hamburg Port Consulting (HPC) is established to make our HHLA expertise accessible to ports around the world. Today, HPC supports port operations worldwide with in-depth knowledge and innovative solutions.
1975
Participation in Hansaport
HHLA acquires a 49% stake in Hansaport Hafenbetriebsgesellschaft. The facility for coal and ores now handles up to 15 percent of the total throughput at the Port of Hamburg.
1972
HHLA’s First Subsidiaries
Since 1972, CTD Container-Transport-Dienst, our first HHLA subsidiary, has been organizing hinterland transport and port transshipment. Over time, more subsidiaries have been added.
1968
The Beginning of the Container Era
With the arrival of the first container ships in Hamburg, our HHLA Container Terminal Burchardkai becomes the first specialised facility for handling them . We develop and test innovative handling and transport techniques, which are quickly put to efficient use.
1966
Rolling Cargo Arrives at the Port of Hamburg
We convert a former British Army roll-on facility into the first RoRo (Roll-On/Roll-Off) terminal at the Port of Hamburg, setting a milestone in logistics.
1961
Innovative Fruit Logistics Make Hamburg a Leading Fruit Port
We build the most modern banana warehouse in Europe. Elevators transport the bananas into the storage halls while protecting them from the weather. Further innovations follow, establishing Hamburg as one of the world's leading fruit ports.
1952
Modern Forklifts Revolutionise Port Logistics
Until 1952, handcarts dominated port operations. With the introduction of modern forklifts for general cargo – heavy-duty forklifts already existed – stacking at HHLA becomes faster and more efficient.
1945
Reconstruction of the Port and Speicherstadt
During World War II, large parts of the Port of Hamburg and the Speicherstadt were destroyed. HHLA launches a massive reconstruction project – a key moment for Hamburg's port!
1935-1939
HFLG Takes Over Quay Management and Becomes HHLA
To balance the deficits of the State Quay Administration with the surpluses of our predecessor, Hamburger Freihafen-Lagerhaus-Gesellschaft (HFLG), both entities merged. In 1939, this resulted in the founding of "Hamburger Hafen- und Lagerhaus-Aktiengesellschaft" – today's HHLA.
07.03.1885
Founding of HFLG and Construction of the Speicherstadt
The Hamburger Freihafen-Lagerhaus-Gesellschaft (HFLG), our predecessor, is founded to build the Speicherstadt. Until today, it is the largest warehouse complex in the world.
1866
Founding of the Quay Administration and Opening of Sandtorkai
The opening of Sandtorkai marks the beginning of modern cargo handling directly at the quay edge in Hamburg. To support port operations, the Quay Administration is founded, which later merges with us at HHLA.

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2020
2018
2015
2012
2005-2007
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2001
1996
1994
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1935-1939
07.03.1885
1866