Vessels coming to Liberia are now able to berth at the Freeport of Monrovia any time of the day. Consequently, the waiting time has decreased and has improved efficiency and reduced logistics cost, APM Terminals Liberia announced on February 13, 2019.
Specifically, the company launched the 24-hour berthing of the vessels at the Freeport of Monrovia.
Until now, the berthing, mooring, pilotage, and towage of vessels at the Freeport of Monrovia was restricted to only day-time operations between 8am-6pm.
In order to make the 24-hour berthing possible, the Terminals Liberia invested into training the crew, installing lighting towers on the quayside and tugs and also worked with the National Port Authority to deploy navigational aids in the approach channel.
In addition, the berthing at any time will boost customers’ satisfaction and will have important benefits on transport and logistics cost, stated Karl Gnonlonfin, a port’s official.
The 24-hour berthing will:
- Reduce vessel waiting time outside Freeport of Monrovia;
- Decrease idle time;
- Lower the operating costs;
- Make the departure and arrival of cargoes faster.
In addition, George Adjei, APM Terminals Liberia Managing Director, reported that this could not be achieved, weren’t for the cooperation between the Executives and National Port Authority and their Harbour Masters.
The collaboration shows the partnership to achieve a common goal in the marine sector.
Finally, the company’s mission, according to officials, is to enable and facilitate global supply chains and provide opportunities for its customers to trade globally. It has invested US$125 million in Liberia on equipment, technology, civil works and modernization of the port, and employs over 250 people, and indirectly employs a further 700 people, virtually all of whom are Liberians.