These are exciting times in container terminal operations.
Most US container terminals had two years of record growth and the pandemic highlighted the importance of port operations to consumers and to businesses. We want to recognize our labor partners whose hard work and expertise kept US supply chains moving throughout the pandemic.
Supply chain disruption is a constant risk and customers need to build in resiliency and have multiple gateway options in their port strategy. Cargo will always find the most efficient way to flow and no port has guaranteed volumes. As we wind down 2022, the port of NY-NJ was ranked the largest port in the US in Q4, illustrating that every port must compete or watch business move elsewhere. Customers have a choice.
Remaining competitive in the port business is essential, especially with the US as the world’s largest consumer economy. The state of California itself could soon be the 4th largest economy in the world, replacing Germany.
It’s also important to keep container terminal operations fluid by moving cargo off the terminal as fast as possible. Ports should not become container storage yards on expensive waterfront real estate. Port congestion creates problems that are costly and has a ripple effect on inland supply chains.
We’re applying a safer, bigger, better strategic approach to our business model for customers. We’re continuously improving our container terminal operations using lean methodology, safety best practices, extensive metrics, technology, and input from all our users. The supply chain requires more technological solutions adopted because physical infrastructure is not unlimited.
APM Terminals is taking on the global supply chain’s biggest challenges with purpose, values, and technology.
Technology is clearly the gamechanger and catalyst for the future of supply chains. A lack of tech is causing major disruptions in the supply chain, and untapped opportunities in artificial intelligence (AI) will make the ecosystem work much better. Exponential advances are evolving and tech is a major investment area for all customers. The current hiring crisis is forcing companies to look for more tech solutions — the future is digital and the COVID-19 pandemic only accelerated it.
APM Terminals is committed to replacing container handling equipment in LA by 2030. The goal is net zero worldwide by 2040.
It is an exciting time in the supply chain industry. The pandemic highlighted its importance to consumers and to businesses — supply chain disruption is a constant and tests every company. The pandemic also elevated the importance of logistics’ role in business and societal impact.
The risk of supply chain disruption is a constant. Supply chains need to be resilient with multiple contingencies in place that are easily implemented with speed and accountability.