Globalization, spurred by the container industry’s fulfillment of speed-to-market and just-in-time inventory requirements, has pressured terminal operators to focus on faster and more efficient container handling at ports. The need to deliver goods faster can often be plagued by capacity restrictions, legislation and labor issues
The 10 points below outline the ways in which terminal operators of all sizes can improve their yard efficiency, thus maximizing their productivity and container-handling capacity.
1. Intelligent terminal and equipment solutions. Onboard smart features, automation tools and integrated systems for container-handling equipment maximize machine performance, for example, by allowing more accurate operations and minimizing unnecessary equipment moves. They also present a number of safety and environmental advantages. 2. Intelligent diagnostics. Maximum availability of handling equipment is key to productivity. Tools such as remote machine interface, along with a CAN-bus built-in advanced diagnostics system can facilitate machine maintenance and ensure that downtime is reduced. 3. Planned maintenance program. Allied to this is the importance of installing a sensible equipment-maintenance program. This should be designed to provide regular maintenance and servicing, and can be tailored according to quiet/peak periods to minimize machine downtime. Remote maintenance interface software generates real-time estimates on upcoming maintenance work offering the ultimate in flexible service scheduling. 4. Fuel-efficient engines. Implementation of the latest engine technology can offer much greater torque, as well as the high pulling capacity required for some container movements. The latest EU-stage Tier 3 engines also give fewer emissions and more productive daily operations. Such engines are electronically controlled to optimize output for each task the operator performs. 5. Terminal simulation planning. When planning a new terminal or upgrading an existing facility, it is wise to bring in the services of an experienced port development consultant. Such companies can provide equipment recommendations, estimates of numbers of equipment needed, overall cost analysis, terminal layouts and operational simulation, thus ensuring a tailored solution suited to each terminal’s needs. 6. Ergonomics. The importance of ergonomic considerations in the operator/driver environment of container-handling equipment cannot be overstated. Some cabins offer well-thought-out instrument and display layouts, adjustable seats and steering columns, climate control and reduced noise levels, meaning that drivers are less fatigued and more alert. This improves both efficiency and safety. 7. Superior, tailored equipment. Always purchase the best machine for the job. Terminal operators can choose from a range of equipment, some of which is designed specifically for certain tasks. 8. Choose a reputable equipment supplier. It might sound obvious, but the best equipment is manufactured by suppliers with significant industry experience, who invest heavily in R&D and who are committed to the market. Such suppliers also will have a global network of sales and service companies, dealers and agents — giving you easy access to spare parts, troubleshooting expertise and technical advice. 9. Manufacturer/original parts. When choosing spare parts, invest in original manufacturer equipment, rather than in cheaper options from non-brand suppliers. This will help curtail service and maintenance activities, thus minimizing costs and ensuring maximum equipment availability. 10. Well-trained operators. The human element is critical to productive terminal operations. Large, reputable equipment manufacturers can assist you with the provision of driver training courses and equipment simulators. Port expansion is often curtailed by capacity restrictions, especially in areas where ports are situated adjacent to cities or neighborhoods. Space constraints can be damaging to future business growth, which is why some port operators are opting for more intelligent and productive handling systems to future-proof their terminal’s efficiency. The growing terminal portfolios of global port operators and their need for increased productivity and guaranteed machine uptime have affected the strategies of port equipment manufactures in countless ways. Machine providers have tried to address these issues by investing in close-to-customer factories, local sales and service organizations and regional parts distribution warehouses. But issues such as port efficiency, safety and legislation have risen to the surface as the common denominator in future container-handling development.
