Drop in megaships’ port productivity – data reveals

Berth productivity on mega-container ships slipped in 2014 on a global basis, according to United States-based market analyst IHS Inc.

IHS data showed that the total number of containers loaded, off-loaded and re-stowed per hour on mega-container ships of 13 000 TEUs and more dipped to 116 in 2014 from 118 in 2012 and 2013.

“The lack of improvement in berth productivity means ships are staying in port longer, forcing other vessels to wait at anchor, creating delays in the transfer of containers between feeder and line-haul ships, and forcing carriers to speed up — and burn more fuel — to maintain schedules,” said IHS in a statement..

The analyst added that the issue of lengthy port stay times on the largest container ships was becoming a growing concern for container lines seeking to cut costs and operate efficiently, and for exporters experiencing chronic delays in their supply chains.