Technology is playing a pivotal role in the ports sector as it is progressively being implemented to enhance operational efficiency.According to Renko Bergh, co-founder of technology company CtrlFleet, the emphasis is on value enablers for both clients and stakeholders, leveraging software features to generate valuable data.“One example involves our logistics clients utilising a customer portal, seamlessly integrating truck tracking data with our scheduling tool. This integration facilitates real-time estimated time of arrivals, prompts for exceptions, and access to documentation captured by truck drivers through our dedicated driver application. Accessible via mobile devices, this customer portal has significantly minimised the conventional need for continuous phone calls and messages, streamlining the process of determining truck arrival times for loading or off loading slots,” he told Freight News.While access to vehicle tracking is not a novel concept, the transformative aspect lies in the capability to seamlessly integrate tracking data with operational production data, explained Bergh. “This fusion provides valuable insights into the current and intended activities of a truck. Moreover, the groundbreaking element is making this comprehensive information accessible to external parties without compromising sensitive data. This integration marks a paradigm shift in the industry, offering a game-changing approach to transparency and collaboration.”Bergh said truck congestion remained a massive challenge at many southern African ports. “The use of technology in terms of slot management and visibility of truck planned arrival and delays is therefore a must.”He said logistics operators were increasingly adopting technology that can be integrated with ports’ Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) to provide a central point of control for truck movements. Bergh added that the recent crisis at the Port of Durban, where massive backlogs were experienced on the land and waterside, highlighted the importance of technology. It also showed how a combined effort between the private sector and government could solve problems. “More than anything, it highlighted that the ability to move out of crisis mode and more towards proactive collaboration is indeed a mutual purpose for all stakeholders and, with focus, it is achievable. “The cost of not getting this right, in the light of neighbouring country ports becoming more competitive, is just too high.”
