New standard data definitions support just-in-time port calls

The Digital Container Shipping Association (DCSA) has released standard data definitions for the port call process — the first publication of the industry body's Just-in-Time (JIT) Port Call programme.

These definitions are designed to allow carriers, ports and terminals to exchange event data in a uniform way, enabling digital planning and operational optimization. Widespread adoption is the first step towards achieving a digital, global, transparent, just-in-time port call ecosystem, DCSA said.

By moving container shipping towards a JIT port call process, DCSA port call standards will enable container ships to optimize their steaming speed, thereby lowering fuel consumption and reducing CO2 emissions. To provide a global industry framework that preserves existing investments, DCSA port call data definitions align with International Maritime Organization (IMO) and International Taskforce Port Call Optimization (ITPCO) Just In Time Arrival Guide standards.

Enabling a vessel to optimize its speed during the voyage to arrive just in time, with berth availability ensured, will significantly reduce the amount of fuel consumed, said DCSA CEO Thomas Bagge.

'Achieving this will require digital collaboration between carriers, ports and terminals.

'DCSA digital standards play an important role in establishing the harmonious ecosystem that will allow this level of collaboration, and today's release is the first step towards the creation of that ecosystem.'

Visit https://dcsa.org/initiatives/just-in-time-port-call/ to download the DCSA Port Call Data Definitions.

Future releases in DCSA's JIT Port Call programme will include API definitions for automating the exchange of event data.

DCSA is a neutral, non-profit group established to further digitalization of container shipping technology standards, in conjunction with its nine member carriers.

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