FEU (Forty-Foot Equivalent Unit)
A 40-foot container can carry a total payload weight – 26730kgs. One FEU container can hold between 22 to 23 pallets, depending on whether they are standard pallets or EUR-pallets.
moreGlossary
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Work Queue (WQ)
A job is completed by carrying out a sequence of Work Instructions in the listed order, which is called a Work Queue. A Work Queue is generated in various situations, such as when: Performing yard consolidation by moving containers within a yard Discharging a vessel upon its arrival at the yard Loading a vessel before […]
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WI (Work Instructions)
A work instruction is a directive that outlines the specific steps necessary to move a container from its current location to another.
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VERMAS
As of 07/01/2016, a SOLAS mandate necessitates the certification of the gross weight of export containers. The recently introduced EDI message, VERMAS, should be utilized for this purpose. Concerning the transport of a packed container via ocean vessel in a supply chain, the Verified Gross Mass message (VERMAS) enables the submission of the Verified Gross […]
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Truck Fleet Management System
Refer to Fleet Management System.
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Transshipment
Transshipment refers to the process of transferring cargo from one vessel to another at an intermediate location, in order for it to be transported to its final destination.
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Transport Layer Security (TLS)
The Transport Layer Security (TLS) protocol is extensively used for secure communication over the internet, ensuring privacy and data security. It has evolved from its predecessor, Secure Socket Layer (SSL).
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TLR (Container Trailer)
TLR or Container Trailer is a vehicle that is utilized for transporting containers within RTG/RMG terminals, similar to a regular truck. In most cases, trailers are capable of carrying up to two containers, while some can transport up to four containers in certain terminals.
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TEU (Twenty Feet Equivalent Unit)
A Twenty Feet Equivalent Unit (TEU) is a unit of measurement used to describe cargo capacity and is equivalent to a standard 20-foot-long shipping container.
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Terminal Operation System
The phrase Terminal Operation System is interchangeable with Terminal Operating System. Please see the definition of Terminal Operating System for further information.
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Stuff
The act of loading cargo into a container is commonly known as stuffing. This is a regular procedure carried out at a Container Freight Station to fill the container with cargo. Once the container is stuffed, it needs to be transported to the terminal where it will be loaded onto the booked vessel and exported.
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STS (Ship-to-shore) Crane
STS cranes, also known as ship-to-shore cranes, are utilized to load and unload ships that are docked at the terminal. Compared to mobile harbor cranes, STS cranes can provide better performance but are less versatile in their deployment since they operate on rails along the quayside. These cranes are also commonly referred to as quay […]
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Strip
When the contents of a container are removed, the process is called stripping. This is a common procedure performed at a Container Freight Station, and once the stripping is finished, the container is left empty.
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Straddle Carrier (STR)
The Straddle Carrier (STR) is a vehicle commonly used in intermodal yards and port terminals for stacking and moving containers. It has the capability to pick up and transport containers for long distances. Straddle terminals typically do not use RMGs/RTGs, and vice versa. These machines are capable of stacking containers up to four levels high […]
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Rubber Tyred Gantry (RTG)
A type of container crane used in container yards, the Rubber Tyred Gantry (RTG) lifts containers using a spreader attached to it with cables. Unlike Rail Mounted Gantry (RMG) cranes, RTGs travel on wheels. These cranes are available in various makes and models, with different dimensions and spans.
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RORO (Roll-On/Roll-Off)
Roll-On/Roll-Off (RORO) refers to a type of shipping method for wheeled cargo, including cars, trucks, trailers, and buses. RORO cargo is driven onto and off of a specialized ship designed for transporting this specific category of cargo.
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Report Server Process
The Report Server Process is an independent module that supplements Contpark and manages the execution, tracking, and display of reports generated in Contpark. To learn more, consult Contpark Web Report Server.
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Reach Stacker (RST)
A Reach Stacker (RST) is a type of vehicle designed for the handling of intermodal cargo containers in smaller terminals or medium-sized ports. They are capable of quickly transporting containers short distances and stacking them in various rows, depending on their accessibility.
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Rail Mounted Gantry (RMG)
An RMG is a type of specialized container crane used in the yard area. It travels on rails to lift containers and is equipped with a spreader that is connected to the RMG by cables. RMGs are available in different makes and models, with varying spans and dimensions.
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Quay
A quay, also known as a wharf, is where ships are moored or anchored next to the dock. The length of the quay, measured in meters, can vary significantly from one terminal to another. For instance, landlocked terminals in Tokyo, Japan, may have a quay length of around 300m, while other terminals, such as Pelepas […]
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Quay Crane (QC)
A Quay Crane, also known as QC or STS, is a Container Handling Equipment (CHE) used for loading and unloading containers onto and off container ships at container terminals. They consist of a supporting framework that moves along the quay or yard and a spreader that can lower and lock onto a container using a […]
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Positioning System
The phrase is commonly used to refer to PDS and DGPS systems. For further details, please consult the definition of DGPS.
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Platform as a Service (PaaS)
Platform as a Service (PaaS) allows organizations to eliminate the need for managing underlying infrastructure, such as hardware and operating systems. Instead, they can focus on deploying and managing their applications. By adopting PaaS, efficiency is improved by eliminating the need for resource procurement, capacity planning, software maintenance, patching, and other similar tasks involved in […]
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PDS (Positioning Detection System)
A Positioning Detection System (PDS) is an optical tracking and displacement sensing technology that accurately detects the position of containers and Container Handling Equipment (CHE) in challenging terminal environments. Its reliability enables precise and dependable detection. For further details, please consult the definition of Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS).
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PCS (Port Community System)
A Port Community System (PCS) is an essential tool to enhance communication from a bilateral to a multilateral approach. Its primary aim is to enable the harmonization of communication between different existing heterogeneous platforms and systems in international ports, using PCS to streamline communication and improve efficiency in the future.
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Optical Character Recognition (OCR) System
OCR (Optical Character Recognition) Systems are a type of technology that is used to scan and recognize characters on containers, such as container numbers and ISO codes. By doing so, OCR systems enhance operational speed and reduce data errors.
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Networks
A network refers to a collection of two or more devices that have the ability to communicate with each other. Typically, networks consist of multiple computer systems that are interconnected using wired or wireless connections.
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Multimodal Terminal Management System
A multimodal terminal management system, which is essentially a terminal operating system (TOS), enables terminal operators to manage their terminal(s) efficiently and cost-effectively, including operational planning such as loading/unloading of trains, trucks, and vessels, gate operations, and management of cargo/container storage in the yard. In addition to waterborne transport (sea and inland waterways), intermodal freight […]
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MOVINS
MOVINS is a message format specified by EDIFACT and it serves as a standard stowage instruction message sent by the vessel to the Vessel Planner before its arrival. The message carries pre-planned information needed to load the vessel. For additional details, please refer to the definition of EDIFACT.
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Middleware
Middleware refers to software that serves as a mediator between an operating system and the applications that run on it, facilitating communication and integration between them.
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Mobile Data Terminal (MDT)
A Marine Data Terminal (MDT) is a type of radio frequency equipment that is utilized for managing and controlling the movement of containers. It is commonly referred to as a mobile data terminal. Additional information about mobile data terminals can be found by referring to the definition of Hand-Held Terminals (HHT).
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LLPOD (Load List Port of Discharge)
The LLPOD or Load List Port of Discharge is the specific port where a container is intended to be unloaded based on the COPRAR load list sent to the terminal. TOPO processes the COPRAR load list and forwards it to TOPX, which then utilizes the information to generate a load list for the vessel.
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Liquid Bulk
Liquid bulk cargo includes any cargo that requires transportation in closed tanks, and are usually moved via pipelines and pumps. Some examples include crude oils and liquid gases.
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Yard Location
A location within the yard designated for storing a container, which is identified by its stack (block), bay, row, and tier coordinates.
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Yard Consolidation
Moving a container from one location within a yard to another location to optimize the yard space and to make it easier to retrieve the container when needed is known as yard consolidation.
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Yard Allocations
A container’s assigned slot or location in the yard is determined by its container attributes, this process is known as Yard Allocations.
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Virtualization
Virtualization is the process of creating virtual versions of resources, such as servers, desktops, and operating systems. By leveraging virtualization technology, businesses can achieve almost unlimited scalability and efficiently manage higher workloads. This new technological wave enables organizations to handle increased levels of demand and workload at any time.
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Vessel Planning
The planning, execution, and monitoring of vessel loading and discharging operations at a terminal/port are the primary aspects of vessel planning. The principal aim of vessel planning is to ensure optimal stability and trim condition for the vessel, highest productivity for the quay operation, maximum safety for terminal personnel, and efficient yard traffic flow during […]
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Software as a Service (SaaS)
Software as a Service (SaaS) is a cloud-based service model where the service provider runs and manages a complete product that users can access. This type of service is commonly used in businesses and often refers to cloud application services. With SaaS, such as Contpark Cloud, users can access the application directly through a web […]
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Shipping Terminal Management System
An IT system designed to manage marine terminal operations is called a shipping terminal management system. It integrates the fundamental functions of a terminal, such as gate activities, yard management, vessel operations (including registration, berthing, and pilotage), rail operations, and general and dry cargo operations (such as loading, discharging, internal movements, and delivery, cargo tracking, […]
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Servers
Servers are devices or programs typically tasked with managing network resources. While any computer running appropriate software can function as a server, dedicated hardware/software systems are often employed due to their specialized features and configurations designed for specific tasks.
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Secure Sockets Layer (SSL)
SSL is a standard security technology that establishes an encrypted connection between a website’s server and the browser. Its responsibility is to ensure that all data sent and received between the server and browser remain private.
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Real-time Terminal Operating System
A Terminal Operating System (TOS) that operates in real-time is capable of providing an up-to-date and comprehensive overview of port or terminal operations. Real-time information is instantly accessible to users, without any delay in uploading or downloading data between the server and client. This includes optimization of operations, management of yards, vessels, berths, cranes, and […]
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Marine Terminal System
A Marine Terminal System, also known as a Terminal Operating System (TOS), is a crucial tool for managing and overseeing the storage and movement of diverse types of cargo (container, break bulk/project cargo, liquid bulk, etc.) within a marine terminal or port. The main aim of a Marine Terminal System is to offer computerized procedures […]
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KPI (Key Performance Indicator)
A Key Performance Indicator (KPI) is a metric used to gauge the performance of a process or business unit, based on data. It provides a quantifiable means of evaluating the efficiency of a terminal in achieving its performance objectives in accordance with its business goals. For further details, please consult the TOPS KPI definition.
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ISO Standards
Organizations worldwide follow the cloud computing standards set by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), an international body that includes representatives from various national standards organizations. These standards ensure ethical use and provide a secure and safe environment for cloud computing.
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ISO Container
ISO containers are utilized for the multimodal transportation of cargo, following the specifications set by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). These containers are designed to be compatible with various transportation modes, such as rail, truck, and ship. The regulations set by ISO outline specific requirements for the container’s size, strength, and durability. The primary […]
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IoT (Internet of Things)
IoT, also known as the Internet of Things, involves a network of interconnected computing devices and physical objects that have the ability to connect to the Internet through an IP address. The communication between these devices and systems is a key feature of the IoT concept.
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Invoicing System
The container terminal business offers various services to customers (liners), each of which has different prices and standard tariffs. Invoicing is done based on individual vessels or liners and services. To bill customers accurately, the invoicing system must consider specific criteria outlined in the individual contracts. Typically, pricing based on standard tariffs is an exception […]
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Intermodal Terminal Management System
Intermodal terminals are crucial for multimodal transportation, but their transit times can create bottlenecks in logistic chains. These terminals involve the use of multiple modes of transportation, including rail, vessel, and truck, without any handling of the freight itself during mode changes, which means no value-added services. To manage these terminals efficiently and cost-effectively, terminal […]
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Integrated Terminal Management System
An integrated terminal management system is a comprehensive IT system that oversees all marine terminal operations, including gate activities, yard management, vessel operations (such as registration, berthing, and pilotage), rail operation, and general and dry cargo operations (such as load, discharge, internal movements, delivery, tracking of cargo, and stuffing and de-stuffing of cargo), as well […]
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Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)
Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) represents the fundamental elements of cloud computing. It typically offers networking capabilities, virtual or dedicated hardware computers, and data storage space to users. These scalable infrastructure resources are automated, enabling businesses to purchase resources on-demand as needed, without having to purchase and install hardware themselves.
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ICD (Inland Container Depot)
An Inland Container Depot (ICD) is a facility for handling and storing containers located at inland points, away from sea ports. It enables importers and exporters to manage their shipments near their location and provides them with a cost-effective and efficient solution for transportation of cargo to and from seaports. Please see the Container Depot […]
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Hand Held Terminal (HHT)
Wireless devices called hand-held terminals (HHTs) are commonly used in container terminals for various processes such as registering load and discharge by the tallyman at the waterside. They are also used by gate checker clerks for performing p-checks at the gate and by reefer electricians for recording reefer checks or plug actions. Additionally, they are […]
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Global Positioning System (GPS)
The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a technology that enables the determination of the precise location of equipment within the terminal. Additional details on this can be found by referencing the definition of DGPS.
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Gate Operating System (GOS)
The Gate Operating System (GOS) is specialized software designed to manage and control gate processes and sub-processes in modern terminal operations. It is made up of various software modules, including customized components and generic building blocks configured to meet the needs of individual customers. The GOS interfaces with multiple systems and subsystems, as well as […]
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Freight Forwarder
Responsibility for arranging the transportation of a container falls to a freight forwarder, as there are numerous local government and customs regulations to be met at the ports of export and import.
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Fleet Management System
The management of a company’s transportation fleet, including vehicles such as cars, vans, trucks, ships, aircraft (planes, helicopters, etc.), and rail cars, is known as fleet management (system). Fleet management system is designed to assist transportation companies in mitigating or eliminating risks associated with vehicle investment, increasing efficiency and productivity, reducing transportation and staff costs, […]
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EDIFACT (Electronic Data Interchange For Administration, Commerce and Transport)
EDIFACT, short for Electronic Data Interchange For Administration, Commerce and Transport (UN/EDIFACT), is an international EDI standard supervised by the United Nations. This standard offers a set of syntax rules to structure data, an interactive exchange protocol (I-EDI), and standard messages that support multi-country and multi-industry exchange. The United Nations Centre for Trade Facilitation and […]
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EC (Equipment Control).
Equipment Control (EC) involves managing and controlling the movement of equipment within a terminal to facilitate the transportation of containers and prepare them for loading or discharge. EC also includes conducting preliminary checks on available equipment, activating work queues for vessels, monitoring RMG and yard operations, and completing cargo work.
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Dry bulk.
Large quantities of commodities that are transported unpackaged are referred to as dry-bulk cargo. This category of cargo includes, but is not limited to, grains, coal, sugar, and other similar items.
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DGPS (Differential Global Positioning System).
With the growth of international trade, container terminals and port facilities must continually improve their infrastructure and operational efficiency. Efficient container handling and equipment management, safety, and increasing automation are crucial. To support this, position detection systems focus on container position information. Global Positioning System (GPS) is used by container terminals to automatically determine the […]
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Container Trailer (TLR)
The Container Trailer (TLR) is a vehicle that resembles a standard truck and is used to transport containers within RTG/RMG terminals. Typically, a trailer has the capacity to carry two containers, though certain terminals have trailers that can transport up to four containers.
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Container Terminal Simulation
Simulation technology is utilized in software applications known as terminal simulation systems to aid decision-making processes in the strategic and design phases of container terminals, whether it be the planning of new terminals (Greenfield) or the expansion or reorganization of existing terminals (Brownfield). These simulation tools offer support and information regarding potential changes, such as […]
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Container Terminal Optimization.
Container terminals play a crucial role in international trade logistics. Despite long-term growth, the container shipping industry now faces various pressures and constraints, requiring further optimization. Terminal operators are under immense pressure to develop more efficient container handling systems due to increased competition among ports and technical advancements in ship design, resulting in vessels with […]
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Container Terminal Management System.
capacity and provide quality service to customers. Information technology (IT) systems are crucial to achieving robust management, and container terminals typically use a Terminal Operating System (TOS) to accomplish this. With advancements in IT, container terminal operators have a range of options for computerizing their management systems. From simple data entry and retrieval to highly […]
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Container Terminal Operating System
A Terminal Operating System (TOS) for containers offers terminals the ability to manage and regulate container operations that take place both inside and outside of the terminal. For further details, please see the definition of Terminal Operating System.
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Container Terminal Design
The continuous growth of international trade, particularly through sea vessels, has resulted in an increasing demand for additional terminal capacity, either through the establishment of new terminal facilities or the expansion of existing ones. It is widely recognized that the rapid growth in foreign trade necessitates improving the infrastructure and operational efficiencies of container terminals […]
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Container Depot
A container depot serves as a storage area for empty shipping containers and can be situated within a container terminal, a port facility, or a hinterland location known as an Inland Container Depot (ICD). Inland container depots function as hinterland hubs that balance capacity peaks and bottlenecks in seaports, and can also serve as storage […]
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Consignment
The transfer of goods from a shipper, referred to as the consignor, to a buyer, known as the consignee, is referred to as a consignment.
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Combined Transport
Combined Transport (CT) involves using multiple modes of transportation to deliver goods to the customer, typically from seaports to inland locations. At a minimum, CT involves two modes of transportation, such as rail, inland waterways (barges), and trucks.
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Cloud TOS
A Cloud TOS is a Terminal Operating System that runs completely on the cloud, offering a terminal access to tools that can manage and monitor its operations via a web browser. For a more detailed definition, please see Cloud-Based TOS definition.
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Cloud Terminal Operating System
A Terminal Operating System (TOS) that is truly cloud-based can greatly enhance a terminal’s efficiency, while also providing significant cost savings through a pay-as-you-go model and eliminating up-front capital expenditures. One key feature of a genuine cloud TOS is that it can be accessed solely through a web browser, as it is fully built on […]
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Cloud Computing
Cloud computing refers to the flexible and dynamic allocation of computing resources to support new business models and economies of scale. Instead of managing servers, storage, and applications on-premise, they are handled by a cloud service provider in their own data center facilities. While the concept is not new, today’s technology allows for its widespread […]
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Cloud-Based TOS
A cloud-based Terminal Operating System (TOS) is a comprehensive system that operates entirely on the cloud. The TOS is designed with a genuine cloud infrastructure and should demonstrate all the typical cloud characteristics. The primary feature of a cloud-based TOS is the elimination of upfront capital expenditures and license costs, which supports a pay-as-you-go model […]
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CFS (Container Freight Station)
At the Container Freight Station (CFS), customers can request for the stripping of a container and the separation of cargo into individual customer lots, which can then be picked up by the customer. Some terminals have an operational CFS, while other containers are delivered by a Freight Forwarder to a CFS located outside the terminal […]
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Break-bulk
Break-bulk refers to a type of general cargo that is typically stored in unitized forms such as bags, drums, boxes, bales, crates, and pallets.
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Definition of Bollard
Description: Bollards are steel pillars that are used to secure mooring lines when a ship is at berth. Some terminals also indicate the locations of bollards along the quay.
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Bill of Lading
The bill of lading is a legally binding document that acts as both a contract and a receipt of goods exchanged between a shipper and a transportation company.
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BAPLIE (BayPlan Including Empties)
BAPLIE (BayPlan Including Empties) is an EDIFACT message that is extensively used in the shipping industry to communicate the exact stowage positions of container cargo aboard an ocean vessel among various parties. In addition to specifying the container number and its exact location on board, the message includes general information about the containers, such as […]
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ATT (Automated Terminal Trailers)
The ATT is an automated alternative to the tractor-trailer combination used for moving containers within terminals. It comes equipped with an automatic navigation and guiding system. Prior to entering the docking station, the vehicle raises its chassis using vertical cylinders situated in each of the axles. The ATT then automatically moves in reverse mode to […]
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ASC (Automated Stacking Crane)
ASCs (Automated Stacking Cranes) are cranes that are mounted on rails and used to stack and transport containers within a terminal. Typically, they are employed for end-loading operations in automated stacks and can be combined with ATTs (Automated Terminal Trailers) or shuttle carriers.
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ARTG (Automated Rubber-Tyred Gantry)
The ARTG (Automated Rubber-Tyred Gantry) is a type of crane that is fully automated and specifically designed for stacking or grounding containers, serving as an automated CHE.
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Automated Rail-Mounted Gantry
The ASC Definition can be referred to when using the ARMG (Automated Rail-Mounted Gantry) interchangeably with ASC.
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Automated Guided Vehicle
The AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle) is a container trailer that operates entirely through automation, with no need for any physical intervention, and is controlled by software.
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Reefer Monitoring System
A system, which automatically captures the inside temperature of a reefer container, records it and reports any deviations from the set reefer temperature to the TOS or, e.g., to the reefer workshop.
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Container Handling Equipment (CHE)
It is also interchangeably referred to as CHE. For more information, refer to CHE definition.
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Berth
The quay, which is also referred to as a wharf, is divided into berths that are typically about 300m to 400m in length. Some may be shorter or longer.
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Yard Management
This involves setting aside areas of the yard for different groups of containers based on the containers attributes.
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Berth Planning
Vessel berth planning is done to ensure discharge operations are at the highest possible productivity and according to container operators’ request to meet the critical vessel schedule. It checks for mismatches/errors between EDI COPRAR-Discharge and BAPLIE-Discharge information. It also includes equipment planning to support operation.
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Depot
A facility where empty containers are stored. These can be located close to marine terminals or major population areas. Shipping Lines can direct customers to pick up empty containers or drop off empty containers at these depots.
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Container Terminal
A facility where cargo containers are transshipped between different transport vehicles, for onward transportation.
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Storage
Storage refers to the process in which digital data is saved and stored in a location that is run on the means of computing technology.
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