The International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH), alongside ChainPORT and global stakeholders, has unveiled its 2024 study on Just-in-Time (JIT) port calls, focusing on port call optimization (PCO) through improved data quality and standardized practices, to complement the existing IMO FAL guidelines and the GIA JIT arrival guide. The study aims to enhance efficiency, reduce congestion, and foster global coordination in maritime logistics.
A seven-phase implementation framework forms the backbone of the report, guiding ports from initial planning to long-term sustainability. Adhering to international standards, such as those from the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and Digital Container Shipping Association (DCSA), is a key recommendation, ensuring harmonized and scalable operations.
Performance measurement is another critical area explored in the study. Ports are urged to establish Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to monitor improvements in efficiency, coordination, and the flow of cargo. Early results from pilot projects demonstrate significant gains, such as reduced turnaround times and enhanced real-time data collaboration.
Looking forward, the study outlines a roadmap for expanding the scope of PCO initiatives. This includes the gradual inclusion of more stakeholders via digital platforms like Port Community Systems, robust data management, real-time updates and a continued focus on international standardization to ensure consistency and reliability in port operations. By embracing these recommendations, ports can not only improve their operational performance but also contribute to a more resilient global supply chain.
The IAPH ChainPORT JIT Study 2024 sets a clear path for ports seeking to align with modern standards and achieve sustainable growth. With its actionable insights and forward-looking strategies, the report is a pivotal resource for advancing the future of maritime logistics.
“The Implementation Status is predominantly in the live operation phase, with the majority of components actively operational. However, some aspects are still undergoing pilot testing and demonstrations.”
The main inputs and contributions are:
- Key identified areas of complexity are ordered: mindset and culture attitudes, stakeholder management, communication, system/application acceptance, legal constraints, organisational structure and others.
- Accurate and timely data the foundation for optimizing port calls under the JIT framework. The study pinpoints on several obstacles, they range from data related issues to legal and governance issues.
- The inconsistent real time data access and lack of standardization for a secure data sharing and shows us that Digital platforms and electronic data exchange systems are critical for real time collaboration and efficiency.
- Pilot projects is one of the essential steps in implementing the JIT. It is stressed the importance of controlled pilot testing to validate systems and demonstrate benefits before full-scale adoption.
- When it comes to stakeholders, they have different priorities and are reluctant to adopt to new systems which means engaging with them early on, clear communication, and understanding of roles will help in alignment with JIT process alignment.
- Implementation of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for evaluating the effectiveness of JIT implementation with metrics such as time deviations and quality of cargo flow. It emphasizes continuous feedback and iterative improvements and underscores the value of pilot projects.
- Digital Twins, Port Community Systems (PCS) and Maritime Single Windows (MSW) are key for enabling information flow as they streamline real time communication, enhance data sharing among stakeholders etc.
- Legal constraints such as unclear ownership of data and lack of agreements on data sharing, are common obstacles. Establishing clear Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and governance policies is needed.
- Data validation and verification is important. These generally include processes such as checking timestamps, georeferences and other critical data points.
- Moreover, this study highlights the importance of engaging port authorities, terminal operators, shipping lines, and others to ensure successful implementation.
- Lastly one of the important practices is to adapt the framework locally to address specific operational challenges. All the ports need to customize the implementation of the framework whilst maintaining alignment with global guidelines to be consistent and compatible across regions. Additionally, it is encouraged to perform continuous feedback loops for refining processes and addressing operational challenges.
“Ports faced significant challenges such as convincing stakeholders to adopt new systems and standardized processes, modifying organizational roles, and ensuring clear communication. Additionally, overcoming cultural resistance, aligning stakeholders’ interests, and navigating legal constraints posed substantial hurdles.”
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