Terminal Automation ROI
Meaning ~ Metric evaluating the financial viability of autonomous equipment upgrades based on productivity gains against total acquisition and operating costs.
Berth Productivity
Meaning
Operational metrics quantifying the rate at which cargo moves across the wharf define the efficiency of a terminal during a vessel call. This figure for berth productivity is calculated by dividing the total number of container moves by the number of hours the vessel spent at the dock. It is the primary gauge for determining how quickly a ship can return to sea after arriving at a port.
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Time Measurement
Measurement begins the moment the first line is secured and ends when the last line is cast off. Total berth time for a ship includes all delays for labor shifts or weather conditions. ~
Factor Influence
Resource allocation determines the resulting speed of operations. Deploying more quay cranes generally increases the berth productivity of a specific call, provided the yard can absorb the incoming volume. Congestion in the stacking area or a shortage of ground transport vehicles will slow the cranes and lower the hourly move rate.
Effective communication between the ship and the shore is required to maintain a steady pace. ~
Commercial Impact
High efficiency at the wharf reduces the fuel costs for carriers by allowing slower sailing between ports. Failure to meet the agreed berth productivity targets in a service level agreement often triggers financial penalties or loss of priority for future arrivals. Terminals with consistently high rates can charge a premium for their services.