DCSA: Digitalization enhances satisfaction and efficiency

The Digital Container Shipping Association (DCSA) has published a report to offer an analysis of digitalization within the container shipping sector and how it alters the landscape.

The State of the Industry 2024 – Insights on Digital Evolution in Container Shipping report examines the current progress, ongoing challenges, and the impact of digital standards on the industry. Drawing on insights from 400 senior decision-makers and detailed interviews, the study provides an overview of how digitalisation is transforming the container shipping industry.

This year, electronic Bill of Lading (eBL) adoption reached 5%, up from 1.2% in 2021, and carriers adopted more DCSA standards in the first quarter of 2024 than in the whole of 2023. For example, the common Track and Trace (T&T) API standard saw a 40% increase in callouts between September 2023 and March 2024.

… said Thomas Bagge, Chief Executive Officer at DCSA

Furthermore, the report explores perceptions of digitalisation’s value, identifies barriers to its implementation, and assesses the role of digital standards in enhancing operational efficiency. Key findings of the report include:

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#1 Digitalisation drives efficiency and client satisfaction.

Digitalisation is perceived as a key tool for enhancing operational efficiency, with real-time tracking and visibility identified as crucial priorities. The benefits of digitalisation are evident, as 88% of cargo owners with higher levels of digitalisation believe it leads to increased customer satisfaction and an improved customer experience, compared to 70% of cargo owners with lower levels of digitalisation.

#2 Resistance to change continues.

Additionally, despite the readiness of cargo owners to embrace digitalisation, many face challenges that hinder its implementation. Issues such as outdated infrastructure, a lack of proactive investments, and general resistance are significant barriers. Nevertheless, 90% of cargo owners indicate that their organisations are prepared for digitalisation, although 66% acknowledge the need for external support to fully realise its potential.

#3 The value of standards is recognised, and evidence suggests they drive efficiency.

The familiarity with digital standards varies among supply chain participants, but the benefits of these standards are well recognised by cargo owners. A substantial majority (85%) believe that digital standards are essential for seamless operations across the supply chain. Additionally, 84% agree that there is a notable correlation between the adoption of standards and improved operational efficiency, DCSA notes.

#4 Energy efficiency is the number one goal for cargo owners.

Finally, energy efficiency ranks as a top sustainability goal for nearly two-thirds (65%) of cargo owners. Furthermore, 43% show a commitment to reducing their environmental impact through more efficient logistics, such as route optimisation. Additionally, almost a third (32%) have implemented measures to reduce paper usage.

EXPLORE MORE BY READING THE REPORT HERE