Productivity and financing infrastructure continue as prime focuses. As the industry progresses to automated systems, larger vessels, and carrier alliances and consolidation, delivering competitive productivity is a distinguishing service factor. Time is of the essence for enhancing efficiencies up and down the value chain, interconnecting systems to complement the total throughput movement of goods from the source to end-user. For import or export oceangoing cargo, port productivity is a key driver in the chain.
There continues to be competitive pressure from global automation and its resulting increased productivity. Management and labor in the U.S. need to resolve issues more quickly so the U.S. no longer trails in the application of technological advances. Solutions to bottlenecks, adequate chassis supplies, increased equipment capacity, efficient land usage and long-term investments for growth and sustainability are vital.
Current U.S. infrastructure investment issues include a focus on PPP, not only at the ports, but beyond to roads, rails and short-sea shipping. Continued support for the development and financing of new transportation infrastructure across the nation from all stakeholders is critical. Success of recent public-private partnerships has demonstrated how they provide an opportunity to finance costly infrastructure enhancements, and proper management as a crucial element in the success and value going forward. Notable examples experiencing the benefits of infrastructure investments for economic growth are Port Newark Container Terminal and Baltimore’s Seagirt Marine Terminal.
Safety continues to be a top priority in all phases of operations. Providing a safe work environment remains paramount to any operation, regardless of economic pressures to increase throughput. Safety First is more than a slogan. Accidents on the docks and vessels affect all areas of the business. The No. 1 goal in all operations should be zero harm and zero damage.
Michael F. Hassing, President and CEO, Ports America