A simulation research on the operational and monetary impacts of ‘megaships’ with a carrying capability of extra than 18,000 TEU on strains, terminal operators, ports and different provide chain stakeholders by international delivery consultancy agency Drewry revealed that these mega vessels present solely modest financial savings for the general provide chain.

The research discovered that the economies of scale – a key function of the liner trade – could also be working out as vessel measurement will increase as much as and past 18,000 TEU.

According to Drewry, larger ships assist carriers cut back voyage prices, however these financial savings will probably be offset by increased port and landside prices. The whole system price financial savings are small and declining.

“Since 2009, leading container shipping lines have engaged in a new-build ‘arms race’ with vessel sizes increasing at breakneck pace to drive down unit costs and improve profitability. This race-to-scale is set to continue with a further 53 megaships expected to enter service in 2016,” based on Drewry.

Larger vessels place better calls for on ports, the place channels need to cater for deeper draughts and on terminals, which must improve gear, yard services and manning ranges to successfully deal with elevated peak cargo volumes.

Drewry expects that mega vessels set to be delivered in 2016 will pressure terminal sources, as the common measurement of ships enhance the quantity of cargo that needs to be dealt with at occasions of peak container exercise.

The research discovered that mixed delivery line and port whole system price financial savings peak at solely 5% of whole community prices and economies of scale diminish as vessel sizes rise past 18,000 TEU.

“As more megaships enter service the industry is rapidly approaching a critical stage. To ensure the economics of vessel upsizing continue to benefit the entire supply chain, lines and ports need to work in a more coordinated manner if further productivity improvements from the transport system are to be realized. Addressing the operational and cost effects at port facilities caused by the challenging load and discharge patterns of these larger ships requires a cross-industry effort,” Tim Power, managing director of Drewry, mentioned in an announcement.

“All stakeholders in the supply chain must recognize the need for dialogue and collaboration if the maritime transport system as a whole is to benefit. If these benefits cannot be delivered and economies of scale in this industry really are running out, the implications are profound.”