The Duration of Container Ships in Port: Understanding the Factors

The length of time that container ships stay in port is a critical factor in the efficiency and profitability of the shipping industry. Various aspects contribute to this duration, ranging from the nature of the vessel and cargo to the customs procedures of the destination country.

Overview of Vessel Types and Time in Port

The duration for different types of ships in port can vary widely. For instance, RoRo (Roll-On/Roll-Off) ships can stay for as little as a few hours, while container ships typically range from 6 to 12 hours. Bulk carriers, which transport commodities like grain or ore, may stay for up to 7 days, depending on the vessel, cargo, and discharging procedures.

General Statistics

According to some sources, dry cargo container ships spent around 0.69 days in a port during port calls in 2021. This figure represents the median time, meaning half of the ships spent more time in port, and half spent less. The actual time can vary significantly depending on the country and the port. For instance, the median ship turnaround time, which includes the total time from arrival to departure, was 0.97 days globally in 2019, as reported by another source. This time includes loading, unloading, waiting, and berthing.

The mode of transport can further impact port time. Less than container load (LCL) shipments, which consolidate cargo from multiple shippers into one container, generally take a bit longer than full container load (FCL) shipments, where one shipper fills an entire container. On average, LCL shipments require about 3-5 days for loading and 4-8 days for port processing, totaling approximately 20-45 days. In contrast, FCL shipments usually take 7-10 days for loading and 7-12 days for port processing, resulting in a total duration of 25-35 days.

Factors Influencing Port Stay Duration

Several factors can influence the duration a container ship stays in port, including:

Ship Type and Size: Different types of ships have varying specifications and capacities, which can affect port stay durations. Cargo Volume and Nature: The amount and type of cargo being transported can significantly impact the time required for loading and unloading. Port Efficiency: The efficiency of the port, including the availability and condition of loading and unloading facilities, can also play a crucial role. Customs Procedures: The speed and efficiency of customs processes at the destination port can affect the overall time a ship spends in port.

Additionally, the location and development level of the port can have a significant impact. Ships in less developed ports with less efficient facilities might need to stay longer. For example, discharging 100,000 metric tons of tapioca in a less developed port in Thailand bound for Rotterdam could take a week or two due to limited port capacity and efficiency.

It's essential to understand that the duration a container ship spends in port can significantly influence its operational costs and overall profitability. By optimizing these key factors, shipping companies can minimize port stay times and maximize their efficiency on the seas.