New terminal operating system increases capacity as part of Ports America’s overall strategy.
Ports America Chesapeake (PAC) recently went live with a new, industry-leading terminal operating system (TOS) that will be the backbone for future enhancements at the Port of Baltimore’s Seagirt and Dundalk marine terminals.
The new Navis N4 system is the first time the port has utilized a single platform for all cargo handled at its terminals and is part of a $142 million investment in equipment and infrastructure initiatives to keep competitive in the region.
“We strive to be ahead of curve with technology advancements to foster continued success in the Port of Baltimore, adding to Maryland’s economy," said Ports America Chesapeake Vice President Bayard Hogans. "Adopting a modern, streamlined TOS like N4 will provide stability and yield results as we push our capacity goals further and support sustainable growth of the port." Hogans added that along with handling additional volume, the new system will increase velocity, efficiency, and safety—ensuring that Ports America Chesapeake remains one of most productive container operations on the East Coast.
Container data transparency and efficiency tools are areas that PAC currently engages with internal and external partners and the new, state-of-the-art N4 TOS provides the ability to more aggressively pursue these types of cutting-edge initiatives. The upgraded system will optimize daily terminal tasks like container handling, vessel planning, yard utilization, and crane scheduling and monitoring. Among other benefits, the platform will be used to track cargo throughout the terminal, optimizing data visibility for partners and customers.
This new TOS and other technology innovations provide improved efficiency, transparency, and productivity in Ports America’s network of terminals. The company has been in the process of standardizing its core TOS platform as it has upgraded major facilities to N4 including PNCT, New Orleans and now PAC. N4 is the foundation for further integrated technologies that will enable key digital innovation for sharing data throughout the supply chain, allowing greater forecasting and management of cargo movements within and beyond the ports.
