Asian Terminals Inc. (ATI) is now implementing an automated empty allocation monitoring system for Manila South Harbor.
In a marketing circular ATI said the system, which covers return of empty containers based on shipping line allocation, allows for “real-time monitoring of empty slot availability for returning empty containers to the port for immediate evacuation by shipping lines.”
It provides “advance information so that empty returns can be programmed between the shipping line and its clients (importers, brokers and truckers) prior to leaving the client’s premises to return the empty container.
“In doing so, shipping lines and their clients can better manage assignments where to return the containers and avoid trucks with empty containers waiting in roads leading to the ports and off dock CYs (container yards).”
ATI vice president Sean Perez in a port tour last week said the system has been in place for about a month now.
For now, the system may be accessed online via WebTrack on ATI’s website or seen through empty allocation boards installed in two locations – at the Manila South Harbor’s drivers’ lounge and at the ATI Transport Office located in the South Harbor Operations Center.
The empty allocation advisory on the ATI website is color-coded. A green or open status means ATI can accept empty containers of shipping lines; yellow is a warning that shipping line allocation is nearing allowable limit (less than 20 twenty-footer slots left); and red or close quota means the limit for shipping line allocation has been reached and ATI will no longer accept containers at South Harbor until the liner’s current container inventory in yard is loaded onto the vessel.
ATI said web booking of empty containers through the ATI WebTrack is not permitted if the shipping line allocation has reached its limit. Shipping lines will then have to provide advance notice to their clients on alternative off-dock depots to return containers.
Printing of gate pass at the ATI kiosk is likewise not allowed if the shipping line allocation has hit its limit; the liner must also provide instructions to its client for alternative off-dock depots.
The port operator said it will also come out shortly with an automated double transaction monitoring system, which will provide information to those who will return an empty container and will pick up a laden container.
Additional call up boards will be installed to further improve communication of quota allocation, ATI noted.
“The automated systems implemented are aimed at improving the process and transaction time at the South Harbor,” the port operator said, adding it will continue to develop enhancements that will further improve service levels.
Meanwhile, the Association of International Shipping Lines (AISL) is also developing a web-based application that will provide a systematic procedure for empty container returns.
The system provides truckers and shipping lines real-time information on which container depots have space for empty containers. The initial phase of the project will cover returns to on-dock container depots. If successful, the system will include off-dock depots.
AISL has had several meetings with stakeholders regarding the application. Pilot testing is slated for November 3. – Roumina Pablo
Photo courtesy of Asian Terminals Inc
