The shipper, shipping company/carrier, beneficial cargo owner (BCO), and freight forwarder are some of the main supply chain players that interact with terminals. Each stakeholder requires cargo and operations visibility from their terminals to meet their goals. Terminal operators need visibility into their operations to optimise resource allocation, cargo movement was nearly impossible due to the absence of technology at every stage to streamline cargo handling, and support broader supply chain efficiency.
For terminal operators, operational visibility forms the foundation of a wider execution strategy, enabling data-driven insights for proactive decision-making, risk mitigation, and improved customer satisfaction. Having real-time data on cargo movement is essential not only for managing day-to-day operations but also for maintaining the flexibility and agility needed to respond to external disruptions that remain beyond an organisation’s control.
Shippers play a critical role in the supply chain and rely heavily on visibility to effectively track and understand the movement of their cargo. They expect efficient handling of goods at terminals, seamless customs processes, and real-time updates on the status of their shipments. Visibility ensures that shippers can plan and manage their operations effectively, minimising delays and maintaining customer satisfaction. While shippers do not hold direct contractual relationships with terminals, the need for transparent and highly visible operations remains crucial. Without it, the risk of miscommunication, delays, and disruptions increases, impacting their ability to deliver goods on time and meet customer demands. Therefore, terminals must prioritise providing shippers with timely and accurate information to ensure smooth cargo movement.
Shipping companies, also referred to as carriers, work directly with terminals and depend on clear visibility to manage ship arrivals and departures efficiently. These companies are the paying customers for terminal services, as they maintain direct contractual relationships with terminal operators. Effective coordination between shipping companies and terminals is essential to streamline vessel turnaround times, manage berthing schedules, and optimise overall operations. Shipping companies require access to accurate data regarding cargo handling, equipment availability, and operational efficiency at terminals to meet their service commitments. The success of a shipping company’s operations is directly linked to its ability to collaborate with terminal operators and maintain transparency throughout the supply chain.
Beneficial Cargo Owners (BCOs), who take direct control of cargo entering ports, are another key group requiring terminal visibility. They engage closely with terminals, demanding timely updates, minimal delays, and clear communication. BCOs rely on real-time tracking of their shipments to avoid costly disruptions in their supply chains. However, in 2021, over 80% of BCOs reported lacking full visibility into their shipments, highlighting an industry-wide gap in tracking capabilities. Despite their reliance on terminal operations, BCOs, like shippers, do not have direct contractual ties with terminals, which can create challenges in obtaining critical updates and ensuring seamless cargo management.
Freight forwarders, who arrange the transportation of goods on behalf of shippers, also depend on terminal systems to track cargo and coordinate logistics. Although they lack direct contractual relationships with terminals, they play a vital role in ensuring shipments move efficiently through the supply chain. Access to real-time data is critical for freight forwarders to meet their customers’ expectations and manage transportation effectively.
Each supply chain player has unique expectations and operational requirements for terminals, highlighting the importance of transparent, visible, and well-coordinated terminal operations in meeting these diverse needs.
For further insight into the areas highlighted in this article, download our thought leadership report, The Great Divide, created in partnership with Kaleris.
