PORTS AND TERMINALS IN THE DIGITAL ERA
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round the world, ports and terminals are taking steps to make digital technologies part of daily operations, hoping to improve efficiency, boost profitability and revolutionize user experiences. To do this, some are employing systems that rely on big data analytics, the Internet of Things and cutting-edge technologies like blockchain. Others, such as the Port of Los Angeles, are taking a simpler path into a hightech future. In November 2016, the Port of Los Angeles announced the launch of a pilot project with GE Transportation to make maritime shipping data available to key stakeholders up to two weeks ahead of a vessel’s arrival at the port. The idea was to create a single online portal which allowed users to access all information about their shipments – improving port efficiency and streamlining user experiences. The program used a cloud-based platform and data from US Customs and Border Protection, two shipping lines and one terminal operator to populate the portal – and granted secure access for cargo owners, freight forwarders, truckers, rail lines and others involved in moving cargo through the port and beyond. The participants hoped to refine the concept to digitize shipping information for the entire port and, ultimately, the larger supply chain. They were not disappointed. Whereas most companies only receive information about the placement and content of containers 48 to 72 hours before a vessel’s arrival in port, users in the pilot portal had that data
10 to 14 days in advance. Besides the early notice, the secure portal also brightened the land transporters world by removing several layers of Internet frustration from the shipping process. At present, according to the Port Authority, a truck dispatcher in southern California has to visit up to 20 different websites to get complete information about containers moving through the port. Having a single website as the data clearinghouse promises a big efficiency boost to local truckers – and to the port as well. Based on initial pilot results, the Port of Los Angeles anticipates efficiency gains of between eight and twelve percent once the full solution is implemented. In November, less than a year after the pilot began, GE and the Port of Los Angeles announced that they were expanding the portal to include all of the port’s container terminals and shipping lines. The new agreements, worth up to $12 million, continue the relationship for five years. Subject to review by the Los Angeles City Council, the deal will support some nine million TEUs (20-foot equivalent) shipping containers, more than 15,000 truck providers and thousands of cargo importers. Calling the portal “critical to our future success,” the executive director of the Port of Los Angeles told the press at the outset of the pilot that “Digital solutions that enable supply chain partners to receive a ship’s cargo information, well in advance of arrival, are a critical key to optimizing US cargo efficiency and trade
SURVEYOR | 2018 VOLUME 1 | 13
