Measures for Avoiding Ship’s Waiting Time in Port

Cargo handling is, in most cases, under the control of the port and the optimum solutions matched to the ship and port requirements should be explored. Whatever solutions that might be thought of, they should contribute to increasing the gross berth productivity, meaning faster cargo handling that can lead to reduce the berthing time.

When it comes to container terminal optimization, for example, the integrated planning and scheduling of all the activities of a terminal could be suggested to increase moves per hour and reduce costs. To improve cargo handling, the following planning needs to be improved:

  • Berth planning
  • Quay crane scheduling
  • Prime mover scheduling
  • RTG (Robber Tyred Gantry) /RMG (Rail Mounted Gantry) cranes scheduling
  • Operational planning, typically day(s) ahead

These activities are closely connected to cargo handling in port where efficient operations can bring about the reduction of ship’s time in port as well as giving environmental benefits. Efficient cargo handling in port can definitely be helpful for the environment. A well-planned cargo operation, both in port and on board can reduce the level of emissions from the ship’s machinery that leads to reduced energy consumption per transported unit. Ways to improve cargo handling resulting in environmental benefits include:

  • The use of an internal movement vehicle that has less fuel consumption per cargo unit
  • The introduction of high capacity loading and unloading operations with lower emissions to reduce the ship’s time in port
  • Safer and easier cargo operations and monitoring
  • The application of new technology with advanced software tools
  • The use of eco-friendly and user-friendly cargo handling products
  • Well trained shore-staff and ship- staff who are keen on safety and environment matters

Quick ship turnaround time in port will ensure slow steaming at sea and this will again contribute to reduce emissions (MariEMS 2017).