/en/lp/blog/technology/shipping-digitalization-developments
Navigating Digitalization in Shipping
30/01/2025
In our increasingly interconnected and technologically driven world, digital innovations are transforming how industries work - and the shipping sector is no exception. Traditionally reliant on paper trails, physical documents, and manual processes, the maritime industry is embracing digitalization. This shift has brought about new levels of efficiency, sustainability, and transparency while redefining how goods are moved across the supply chain.
But what do we mean by digitalization? It’s the process of incorporating digital technologies to improve business operations and processes. The marine digitalization includes the integration of electronic shipping processes, real-time tracking, automation and robotics, and increasingly eco-friendly practices.
This has opened opportunities for businesses. By embracing marine digitalization, you can ensure your logistics operations are streamlined, optimized, sustainable, and competitive. Ultimately, this leads to building lasting relationships with your stakeholders, positive interactions with your customers and positioning your business as an industry leader in the digital age.
Sailing into the Digital Age: The Digitalization of Shipping Processes
Shipping and marine digitalization have modernised parts of traditional shipping processes, reshaping how documentation and security are managed.
From Ink to Link: The Digitalization of Documentation & Communication
E-documentation and Electronic Document Management Systems (EDMS) can help to facilitate more efficient document creation, storage, and handling.
Not only do these digital innovations effectively eliminate the challenges faced by traditional paper-based systems, such as errors, document damage or loss, and time-consuming manual labour, but they also enable seamless stakeholder coordination and customs clearance. Communication systems like the Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) and Port Community System (PCS) allow shippers, carriers, freight forwarders, ports, and customs authorities to communicate in real time. At the same time, customers can book and pay for shipments online. These entirely online interactions result in streamlined operations and quicker processing times.
From Ink to Link: The Digitalization of Documentation & Communication
E-documentation and Electronic Document Management Systems (EDMS) can help to facilitate more efficient document creation, storage, and handling.
Not only do these digital innovations effectively eliminate the challenges faced by traditional paper-based systems, such as errors, document damage or loss, and time-consuming manual labour, but they also enable seamless stakeholder coordination and customs clearance. Communication systems like the Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) and Port Community System (PCS) allow shippers, carriers, freight forwarders, ports, and customs authorities to communicate in real time. At the same time, customers can book and pay for shipments online. These entirely online interactions result in streamlined operations and quicker processing times.
As well as ensuring streamlined, secure, and trustworthy document management, modernizing your document processes can also realize cost savings. As these systems usually require less physical storage space and incur fewer printing expenses due to bookkeeping or errors, they free up resources for other initiatives within your business.
In shipshape: The digitalization of safety and security
Digitalization in the shipping industry has transformed how we approach security and safety. Integrating digital technologies into your operations can help you assess, prepare for and respond to risks.
Electronic Navigation Systems, such as GPS and ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display and Information System) provide real-time location and navigation data which can help to plan routes as well as prevent emergencies and delays. Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) and Very High Frequency (VHF) radio also support this, by establishing communication channels between vessels and shoreside operators. These systems allow for incidents to be responded to quickly and ensure operational continuity.
In shipshape: The digitalization of safety and security
Digitalization in the shipping industry has transformed how we approach security and safety. Integrating digital technologies into your operations can help you assess, prepare for and respond to risks.
Electronic Navigation Systems, such as GPS and ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display and Information System) provide real-time location and navigation data which can help to plan routes as well as prevent emergencies and delays. Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) and Very High Frequency (VHF) radio also support this, by establishing communication channels between vessels and shoreside operators. These systems allow for incidents to be responded to quickly and ensure operational continuity.
Innovations like digital twins and predictive maintenance technology can also support vessel safety and operations. Digital twins are virtual representations of physical objects or processes. They help to monitor equipment, track performance and plan maintenance before issues arise. By leveraging this technology, businesses can optimize vessel operations, minimize unexpected downtime and maintenance costs and ultimately, ensure safe and reliable logistics.
Integrating digital technologies can also provide you with the opportunity to prioritize data protection and enhanced security. Robust cybersecurity measures, such as firewalls, data encryption, multi-factor authentication and security audits can protect against cyber threats while also building confidence in your brand and fostering trust with your customers.
Navigating the Now with Real-Time Tracking and Smart Containers
Digitalization in the maritime industry has also redefined our tracking capabilities. Ships and shipments can be tracked in real-time through Internet of Things (IoT) integration, advanced communication systems like the AIS, smart containers and blockchain-based platforms. Utilizing these tracking technologies can offer numerous benefits to your business operations and customer experience.
Real- Time Tracking: Business Benefits
Real- time Tracking: Customer Benefits
Leveraging real-time tracking technology in your business will also improve your customer experience through dynamic communication. By providing real-time and accurate updates on cargo status, delivery estimates and delays, you can enhance your business transparency and accountability. Allowing customers to track a shipment in real time adds another layer of convenience and autonomy to their experience. Improved visibility coupled with customer service teams informed by real-time updates will also foster positive customer interactions, ensuring problems are resolved quickly and building trust in a reliable and communicative partnership.
Continuous and live monitoring by real-time tracking systems can also help to reduce the risk of fraud and theft. Ensuring goods are secure and protecting both your business and your customer’s interests.
Logistics and shipping automation and robotics
The use of automation and robotics has also improved operational efficiency. Shipping automation software can streamline processes like container handling, inventory management, vessel tracking and mooring systems. Consequently, your operations will be faster, more productive, and more competitive in the market. Automated systems and robotics can also reduce labour costs, human error, and operational inefficiencies, ensuring you run a tight ship with optimized cost and resource deployment.
Digitalization and eco-friendly shipping
Environmentally friendly shipping has been propelled forward by the digitalization of the shipping industry. Within maritime shipping, the optimization of route planning can have significant environmental benefits. Effective route management reduces fuel consumption, emissions, and your carbon footprint. Combined with speed optimization and data-driven insights into environmental conditions, such as weather, currents, and wind, your business can mitigate its environmental impact while maximizing its operational efficiency.
On top of this, by using e-documents and e-documentation software, you can reduce your paper waste. With less reliance on handling and transporting physical documents, you can reduce your carbon footprint as well as the need for physical storage, contributing to your overall sustainability efforts.
Optimize your digital shipping operations with MSC
Digitalization within the maritime and shipping industries is essential in modern commerce. Electronic shipping processes, real-time tracking, automation, and robotics help you to build transparent relationships, deliver reliable and secure shipments and make informed decisions based on accurate data.
At MSC, we provide easy-to-use, flexible, and reliable digital business solutions. With our decades of experience and expertise, our solutions give you the visibility and control you need with the exceptional customer service you deserve. Contact us today to find out more.
