Port authorities and terminal operators for years have turned to technology to help manage, modernize and digitize operations. Adopting such technologies has helped terminals across the globe navigate supply chain challenges such as congestion, changing volumes and new regulations. However, while substantial progress has been made, there remains untapped potential and a need for increased collaboration efforts throughout the ecosystem.
Appointment systems can be an integral part of port operations, playing a critical role in ensuring the seamless flow of goods. By offering flexible, technology-driven approaches, users can efficiently schedule and manage workload. Going further, agnostic platforms communicate with disparate systems across a port complex, addressing workforce, environmental and community issues. Leveraging programs such as a common portal for interoperability provides all stakeholders with seamless access to real-time data about the supply chain events most relevant to them. The evolution to this type of platform helps terminals unlock the potential of their port technology investments through integration with different systems across multiple users.
While appointment systems are not a new technology, the transition to a common platform would allow for new digitization opportunities and integrations with emerging technologies that seamlessly interact with appointment systems’ APIs, user interfaces and data capabilities. Advent eModal is collaborating with ports throughout North America and Europe to implement agnostic portals that enable more efficient, agile and sustainable management. Embracing shared or common portals will further streamline import and export logistics, facilitate empty container returns and allow for dual transactions. These portals will deliver efficiency improvements that contribute to the well-being of the community, the environment and the livelihoods of essential longshore, dock and freight workers.