Improving the transparency of container transport

 In September 2009 the EU funded INTEGRITY project implemented its IT platform, the Shared Intermodal Container Information System SICIS. SICIS tracks containers along the entire logistics chain and registers all data and related events which are generated during the transport. SICIS regularly monitors the INTEGRITY consortium members’ containers from China to Europe.

By the end of the project the aim is for several thousand containers to have been monitored by this IT platform.

Since the beginning of 2010 a new and extended version of the basic SICIS has been able to link container monitoring data with vessel tracking information provided by satellites using the vessels’ AIS signals (Automatic Identification System).

The vessels’ positions together with related events like course divergences are visualised on a world map and buyers, sellers and logistics providers within the supply chains are able to track vessels and corresponding containers to get information about their position and status at all times. The monitoring of the containers is automatic whilst on route, and needs no manual input or intervention. The event updates are automated processes initiated by ingate/outgate and vessel loading/unloading.

In the future, SICIS will be enhanced by even more exclusive functions. Another important innovation will be the possibility of linking existing data from container monitoring with consignment information relevant for Customs. The data flows accompanying the transport will be integrated to optimize the Customs clearance in cooperation with the involved Customs authorities.

This unique consolidated data will significantly improve the transparency of the transport chain and the predictability of the transport process and will lead to a lowering of the shipping charges. At the same time container security will be significantly optimized.

Source: Cargo Management