The World Bank and S&P Global Market Intelligence have released the global Container Port Performance Index 2023 (CPPI). The global port performance is in the spotlight, with Yangshan Port in China taking top honors.
Martin Humphreys, lead transport economist at the World Bank, says, “While the challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath eased further in 2023, container shipping continues to be an unpredictable and volatile sector.“Major ports need to invest in resilience, new technology, and green infrastructure to ensure the stability of global markets and the sustainability of the shipping industry,” says Humphreys.
What is the CPPI?
The CPPI is a comprehensive ranking system developed by the World Bank and S&P Global Market Intelligence to evaluate container port efficiency and effectiveness of container ports around the world. The index measures the performance of container ports based on various metrics.
Benefits of the CPPI report
The CPPI helps port authorities, shipping companies, and policymakers measure and improve port performance. It aims to boost supply chain efficiency and support global trade. The index also shares best practices and points out areas for improvement, encouraging ports to be more efficient and sustainable.
Top performing container ports in 2023
Yangshan Port in China was the best-performing port for the second year. Oman’s Port of Salalah stayed in second place. The Port of Cartagena in Colombia moved up to 3rd place, while Morocco’s Tanger-Mediterranean remained 4th, and Malaysia’s Tanjung Pelepas Port finished in 5th place.
The CPPI ranks 405 container ports worldwide based on their efficiency, mainly by examining how long container vessels stay at the port. The goal is to find ways to improve for the benefit of everyone involved in global trade and supply chains, including ports, shipping lines, governments, and consumers.
The role of container ports in the global economy
Port logistics has been in focus recently, especially with the Baltimore bridge collapse earlier this year and the Red Sea crisis.
How do container ports play a vital role in the global economy?
- Facilitate trade: Container ports are crucial for international trade. They handle the majority of global cargo and enable the efficient movement of goods across continents.
- Economic growth: Ports drive economic growth by creating jobs, supporting local industries, and fostering commerce and investment in surrounding regions.
- Supply chain efficiency: Efficient container ports streamline the supply chain, reducing shipping costs and delivery times, which benefits businesses and consumers worldwide.
Here are the top container ports
- Yangshan
- Salalah
- Cartagena (Colombia)
- Tanger-mediterranean
- Tanjung pelepas
- Chiwan
- Cai mep
- Guangzhou
- Yokohama
- Algeciras
Understanding port throughput
Port throughput is the total amount of cargo a port handles over a period, measured in twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs). It includes all containers loaded, unloaded, and moved through the port. High throughput shows a port’s ability to efficiently manage large volumes of cargo.
Steps to shipping a container
Shipping goods internationally can seem complex, but with a clear understanding of the process, it becomes much more manageable. Whether you’re a first-time shipper or an experienced exporter, following a structured approach ensures that your cargo reaches its destination safely and on time.
Step 1: Planning and booking
- Research Shipping Companies: Compare services, prices, and reviews.
- Choose a Container: Select the right size and type for your belongings.
- Book the shipment: Reserve space with the chosen shipping company.
Step 2: Preparing your belongings:
- Sort and pack: Pack items securely using appropriate materials.
- Label boxes: Clearly label each box with its contents and destination.
- Create an inventory: List all items being shipped for insurance and customs.
Step 3: Documentation
- Gather necessary documents: Get your passport, visa, bill of lading, inventory list, and any required customs forms.
- Complete customs forms: Fill out forms accurately for the origin and destination countries.
Step 4: Loading the container
- Transport to loading site: Arrange transportation of your belongings to the shipping company’s loading facility.
- Load the container: Ensure items are loaded securely and evenly distributed.
Step 5: Customs Clearance
- Submit documents: Provide all necessary documentation to customs authorities.
- Pay fees: Pay any applicable duties, taxes, and fees.
- Obtain clearance: Get approval from customs for your shipment.
Step 6: Transport to port
- Arrange transport: Coordinate the transfer of the loaded container to the port.
- Monitor the schedule: Ensure timely arrival at the port for the scheduled shipment.
Step 7: Shipping
- Ocean transit: Your container will be shipped to the destination port. Track the shipment for updates.
Step 8: Arrival and Customs at destination
- Unload at port: Once the ship arrives, the container is unloaded.
- Clear customs: Submit necessary documents to the destination country’s customs and pay any import duties and taxes.
Step 9: Transport to new home
- Arrange delivery: Organize transportation of the container from the port to your new home.
- Unload belongings: Carefully unpack your items and check against the inventory list.
Benefits of using a shipping container for a long-distance move
When planning a long-distance move, choosing the right method to transport your belongings is crucial. Shipping containers have become an increasingly popular option due to their numerous advantages.
- From cost-effectiveness and security to convenience and flexibility, using a shipping container can simplify your move and provide peace of mind.
- Shipping containers offer a more affordable option compared to other moving methods, especially for large volumes of goods.
- Containers provide robust protection for your belongings, reducing the risk of damage or theft during transit.
- Containers can be delivered to your doorstep for loading and picked up when you’re ready, providing flexibility and ease.
- Available in various sizes, containers can accommodate different amounts of goods, making them suitable for both small and large moves.
- Containers are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, ensuring your items remain safe and dry throughout the journey.
- Many shipping companies offer options like door-to-door, door-to-port, or port-to-port services, allowing you to choose the level of service that best fits your needs.
Biggest mistakes people make when shipping a container
Many times, people rush through the container-sending process. Here are some of the common mistakes people make when shipping containers.
Incorrect documentation: Failing to provide accurate and complete documentation, such as the bill of lading, commercial invoice, packing list, and certificates of origin, can lead to delays, fines, and even the confiscation of goods.
Ignoring regulations and compliance: Failing to comply with international shipping regulations, including customs requirements, safety standards, and import/export restrictions, can lead to severe penalties and delays.
Inadequate customs declarations: Incorrect or incomplete customs declarations can result in customs holds, fines, and delays. It’s essential to provide accurate information about the contents, value, and origin of the goods.
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About the author
Sharl is a qualified journalist. He has over 10 years’ experience in the media industry, including positions as an editor of a magazine and Business Editor of a daily newspaper. Sharl also has experience in logistics specifically operations, where he worked with global food aid organisations distributing food into Africa. Sharl enjoys writing business stories and human interest pieces.
