Auckland to revamp supply chain

With stakeholder frustration mounting over increasing delivery times and frequent delays, the partners are targeting improvements via leveraging technology, greater planning and co-ordination as well as a move towards 24/7 operation by all parties.

Currently installing an automated container handling system, PoAL says it is working with the NRC to update its processes and business rules to minimise manual intervention and incentivise off-peak container movements. Last-minute freight moves are consequently expected to become a “thing of the past”, with all movements having to be planned in advance.

Another key aspect of the initiative is to provide greater information flow on both the causes of hold ups as well as the status of affected shipping and freight movements, with it being observed events “thousands of kilometres away” can cause major “domino effects” locally.

PoAL commercial relationships general manager Craig Sain said: “As a port we have a key role to play and we are trying to educate other players in the supply chain so that they understand the need for change and what they can do to make the process more efficient.

“Ultimately, these changes will benefit New Zealand through the fast, efficient and cost-effective delivery of freight.”