Shipping across oceans is on the rise and companies are looking for ways to both increase ship container capacity and reduce cost. As more ships arrive with more containers, increased shipments and container volumes create problems as goods seeking to reach their final destinations tax coastal roadways and rail systems, and ultimately create demand constraints for well-connected warehousing.
As fleets expand in response to developing world trade, port capacity is strained. Though many seaports plan major infrastructure improvements, congestion will still present challenges to timely, cost-effective distribution of inbound containerized shipments to noncoastal retailers, manufacturers and ultimately consumers.