Data insights

The lack of interoperability in container shipping means data cannot flow seamlessly across the end-to-end journey of ships and their containers. This negatively impacts virtually every shipping activity. Poor data flows lead to limited visibility into the status and location of vessels, cargo and equipment, creating “blind spots” along multi-modal container journeys. This lack of transparency causes unexpected delays that ripple across the supply chain, causing disruption that can have significant economic and ecological impact. For all supply chain stakeholders, limited data visibility increases operational costs and reduces sustainability by creating inefficiency, uncertainty and waste. 

DCSA envisions a digitally interconnected container shipping industry in which stakeholders exchange accurate, real-time data from end-to-end of every shipping transaction. By enabling interoperability across the ecosystem, DCSA standards establish a foundation for on-demand visibility into the status and whereabouts of cargo, vessels, equipment and documentation. For logistics managers, better data insights help lessen the impact of unexpected delays by enabling data-driven alternative planning. Widespread adoption of DCSA standards will lower costs while improving the efficiency, reliability and sustainability of international trade.