Efficiency within the supply chain ebbs and flows. During the ebbs, shippers must assess how to improve efficiency. The supply chain has the overall goal of moving freight, and it is essential to assess how things are done today to improve efficiency tomorrow. Ports realize they play an integral part in the supply chain’s success or failure; however, rising to the demand for tackling decisive issues through open communication and collaboration is vital to solving challenges in the future.
I caution that collaboration is not one-sided. Diversifying the movement of cargo and strategizing infrastructure investments to meet shipper needs, especially during downtimes, is critical. Infrastructure is a crucial part that impacts port flow and all stakeholders. While ports are having conversations beyond the dock, those involved can lend their voices to advocating for infrastructure advancements and improvements to handle larger vessels, which will directly impact regional economics.