WWL predicts closer dialogue with ports
Kai Kraass, chief operating officer of Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics, says WWL works with hundreds of ports around the world, and the relationships they have vary a lot.
“However, there are some recurring themes where we would like to see improvements. One such area is capacity availability and flexibility to increase capacity during periods of high volume.
“As ro-ro carriers we have special demands and prefer dedicated terminals and berths that are suited to our cargo and form of operation, instead of competing with other types of traffic. Our vessels are large and require berths with adequate draft and terminals that are able to handle heavy rolling cargo.
“A different capacity issue is the problem with delays due to peaks in the number of vessels using the port. This can cause costly delays waiting for entry or pilots, or availability of stevedores.
“We often have or would like to have our own terminals and technical services facilities in or close to the port. Then, discussion needs to take place at a planning stage to ensure smooth operations.”
But are port managers willing to engage in dialogue about their service levels?
Mr Kraas says it varies, but WWL foresees closer dialogue because the market place for ports is increasingly competitive.
Overall, the areas that ports could most improve their service levels are flexibility to handle variations in volume, schedule changes and all the unpredictable aspects of a line’s business.
“We want to listen to their advice when it comes to improving the predictability of these factors and shorten the turnaround time for vessels. Together we must embrace new ways of thinking and understand the possibilities of new technology.
“We are currently analysing the activities from pilot to pilot in 50 of our largest ports, and will be working with the ports to improve turnaround time in a cost effective manner.”
Looking to the future, Mr Kraas says that ro-ro vessels will in general be larger, so the ability to receive and handle the deeper draft and heavier ramps will be key.
Also, many environmental demands will be placed on ports. They will need to be able to supply different bunker qualities, handle waste differently, and maybe provide shore-power or hull cleaning.
