Ocean carriers' transition from transport providers to supply chain integrators: a case study. (3rd December 2009) - Papadopoulou, E.M.
The trend of containerisation is prominent internationally, growing simultaneously with the rate of global sourcing. Ocean carriers face the need to move forward and provide maritime logistics instead of plain maritime transport. This paper examines this transition, analysing the transportation characteristics and the technological means that will promote maritime logistics integration. Through a case study, the role of a fourth party logistics provider (4PL) is examined, as well as its adjustments to the new challenges. An integrated operational model is suggested securing the lean flow of cash, cargo and information.