Cooperation between vessel service providers in ports

An impact analysis using simulation for the Port of Rotterdam

Journal Article (2023)
Author(s)

Shahrzad Nikghadam (TU Delft - Technology, Policy and Management)

Ratnaji Vanga (TU Delft - Technology, Policy and Management)

Jafar Rezaei (TU Delft - Technology, Policy and Management)

Lori Tavasszy (TU Delft - Technology, Policy and Management, Transport and Planning)

Research Group
Transport and Logistics
DOI related publication
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.martra.2023.100083 Final published version
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Publication Year
2023
Language
English
Research Group
Transport and Logistics
Volume number
4
Article number
100083
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Abstract

Cooperation between vessel service providers can improve the performance of ports. However, the potential impact of such cooperation has not yet been quantitatively addressed in the literature. We present an assessment using a port simulation model where the exchange of information has been made explicit. Cooperation is modelled as information exchange between the pilotage and towage service providers for the deployment of pilots and tugboats. A first application of the model is shown for the case of Port of Rotterdam. We find that time savings of up to 30% in waiting times can be achieved, while both service providers improve their performance. These findings provide empirical confirmation of the expected benefits of cooperation in ports as voiced in the literature. Furthermore, the results underscore the importance of moving beyond an ad-hoc synchronizations of these services towards systematic cooperation, to the benefit of ports as well as the service providers.