Electronic commerce is likely to have a significant impact on the shipping industry. This paper discusses the effect this new technology will have on the transport chain, along with opportunities it will present and threats that it may pose. A historical summary is provided on how changing communications have altered the commercial organization of shipping in the past. The paper concludes that shippers can take advantage of the compatibility of shipping software by managing information on the Internet, particularly through websites and intranets. In bulk shipping, chartering transactions could go online, reducing operating costs. The liner business should see a significant decrease in information technology costs, but tightened competition. Liner customers should see better service with electronic commerce initiatives.
Samenvatting