OPC’s move to fast track the loading and unloading of containers successfully eliminated vessel downtimes and improved the overall efficiency of dock operations. Port users happily welcomed the improvement, which significantly reduced transport times as well as operational costs.
“We are glad with how port stakeholders in Honduras and the Caribbean received the new systems and processes we implemented in Puerto Cortes to improve customer service. We envision our ICTSI Puerto Cortes terminal not only to become a major terminal in the Group, but a key port in the Caribbean serving Central American trade,” said Marcelo Suarez, Senior Vice President and Head of the Americas Region.
A new vessel segregation system based on destination, size and weight had been set in place together with a new “window docking” scheme that enables ships arriving at a predefined time to dock immediately upon arrival. The mechanism greatly reduces the logistics costs for port users, unlike in the past when ships had to wait for hours at the bay, sometimes even up to days before docking.
The window docking system allows precise planning and better resource management of resources and personnel, as well as maintenance of machinery and spaces within the port. Vessels can unload their containers immediately within 24 hours provided that requirements and full documentation are accomplished in advance.
Port users now have access to OPC’s free web portal for the processing of export entries, eliminating the need for manual data retrieval. This technology-based component was specifically designed to help users adapt to the changes and streamline processes at the port.
OPC has managed to keep operations running normally despite of the guideline issued by the Honduran Executive Directorate of Revenue, which require Customs to empty containers for inspection. Recognising the policy’s security implications to the port and businesses in general, OPC increased the number of its workers from 30 to 150 to offset the added processing time brought about by the new inspection routine.
Puerto Cortés is one of the El Salvadoran exporters’ main gateways to the Carribbean. OPC won a 30-year concession to manage and operate the Specialised Container and General Cargo Terminal back in February 2013. The ICTSI subsidiary is expected to invest USD624 million for the first 10 years of concession in an attempt to sustain the region’s development and growth.
OPC aims to re-position Puerto Cortés as a regional key player in Latin America, highlighting the port’s importance not only as a business gateway but also as key contributor to the Honduran economy.