Glosario Logístico Container Yard

A container yard is an area designated for handling, storing, and transferring shipping containers. Containers arrive at the yard via truck or train and are stacked in the storage area until they can be loaded onto ships or dispatched via truck or rail to their next destination.

Container yards provide a buffer location where containers can be held until the next leg of their journey. This allows for the consolidation of cargo from multiple origins into container loads for transit. It also provides a place to store empties until they are needed.
In Korea, CYs are operated by shipping companies, logistics companies, and port authorities. They provide services like container storage, maintenance, repair, cleaning, customs clearance, and container loading/unloading. Efficient CY operations are critical for minimizing bottlenecks and ensuring cargo moves quickly through ports.

(Source : Firefly, Adobe)

1. Container Storage
A primary function of a Container Yard is to provide open storage space for shipping containers. This includes both empty containers and those loaded with import or export goods. Effective space utilization is crucial in a CY, as it directly impacts efficiency and turnaround times.

Optimized Space Management: The layout of a CY is strategically planned to maximize storage capacity while ensuring quick retrieval and loading of containers. This involves organizing containers based on their type, destination, or urgency.

Advanced Tracking Systems: Most CYs employ a sophisticated Terminal Operating System (TOS) to track the exact location of each container within the yard. This digital system enhances operational efficiency and minimizes the risk of misplaced containers.

2. Pre-Shipment Consolidation
Container Yards also play a critical role in consolidating cargo, particularly for Less-Than-Container-Load (LCL) shipments.

Combining LCL Cargo: Multiple shipments from different shippers are combined into shared containers. This is particularly beneficial for smaller shippers who do not have enough goods to fill an entire container.

Enhancing Utilization and Efficiency: By consolidating cargo, CYs improve the utilization of container space, which in turn optimizes shipping costs and reduces the environmental impact of transportation.

3. Customs Clearance
An often overlooked but vital function of Container Yards is facilitating customs clearance.

On-Site Customs Facilities: Many CYs have dedicated customs areas where containers can be inspected and cleared. This is especially important for international shipments that must comply with various regulations and tariffs.

Streamlining the Customs Process: Having customs facilities within the CY speeds up the clearance process, allowing for faster release of goods. This is critical for time-sensitive shipments and helps in maintaining the fluidity of the supply chain.

4. Maintenance and Repair
Container Yards are not just storage spaces; they also serve as maintenance hubs for containers. This function is crucial for keeping the containers in optimal condition for safe and efficient use.

Repair Services: CYs handle repairs of damaged containers. This includes fixing dents, patching holes, and addressing any structural issues.

Maintenance Services: Regular maintenance tasks like washing, painting, and general upkeep are performed to ensure containers are clean and in good condition, adhering to industry standards.

5. Refrigerated Container Services
For temperature-sensitive cargo, CYs provide specialized services for refrigerated containers, commonly known as reefers.

Power Connections: CYs are equipped with power sources to connect reefers, maintaining the required temperatures for perishable goods like food and pharmaceuticals.

Monitoring and Maintenance: Regular monitoring ensures that the reefers are functioning correctly, and any necessary maintenance is carried out promptly to preserve cargo integrity.

6. Efficient Loading/Unloading
A key aspect of a CY's operation is the efficient movement of containers, which is facilitated by specialized equipment:

Yard Tractors and Reach Stackers: These vehicles are essential for moving containers within the yard and for loading/unloading them onto trucks and railcars.

Speed and Safety: The use of this equipment speeds up the process of handling containers while ensuring safety standards are met.

7. Container Tracking
Modern CYs utilize advanced technology to track containers within their premises, which is vital for operational efficiency and customer service.

Terminal Operating System (TOS): This digital system keeps track of each container's location and status within the CY.

Visibility for Stakeholders: By tracking containers, CYs provide valuable information to shippers and truckers, enhancing transparency and aiding in logistical planning.

(Source : Firefly, Adobe)

To perform its functions smoothly, a CY requires various facilities and equipment:

1. Container Stacking Yards

Purpose: These are open storage areas designated for the ground stacking of containers..

Infrastructure: They are surfaced with durable materials like concrete or asphalt to withstand heavy loads.

Organization: The yards are systematically organized, with location zones often marked by painted lines for easy identification and management.

2. Buildings

Administrative Offices: These are essential for the day-to-day management and operational coordination of the CY.

Customs Clearance Facilities: Dedicated areas within the CY for handling customs processes efficiently.

Workshops and Rest Areas: Facilities for maintenance staff and areas where drivers and employees can take breaks.

3. Roadways

Design: Interior roads within the CY are paved to facilitate the smooth movement of tractors and trucks.

Function: These roads are crucial for transporting containers between different parts of the yard and the quay.

4. Rail Sidings

Integration: Rail sidings provide direct rail access to the CY, enabling efficient loading and unloading of containers from trains.

Connectivity: This feature connects the CY directly to the national rail network, enhancing its accessibility and utility.

5. Quay Side

Location: This is the area adjacent to vessel berths.

Function: It's used for the transfer of containers between ships and the shore, typically involving the use of quay cranes.

6. Refrigerated Container Power Points

Purpose: These are electrical connections specifically for refrigerated containers (reefers) to maintain the required temperatures for sensitive cargo.

7. Maintenance Facilities

Workshops: Dedicated areas for repairing and cleaning containers and chassis, ensuring they are in optimal condition for use.

Washing Areas: Specific zones equipped for thorough cleaning of containers.

8. Equipment

Types of Equipment: Yard tractors, reach stackers, and empty handlers are used for transporting and stacking containers.

Software Systems: Advanced tracking systems monitor container locations and movements within the CY, enhancing operational efficiency.

(Source : Firefly, Adobe)

1. Container Dwell Time

Definition: This metric measures the average time a container remains within the CY.

Importance: It's an indicator of the yard's efficiency in processing containers. Longer dwell times can indicate congestion or inefficiencies in the yard operations.

Optimization Goal: To minimize dwell time, enhancing the throughput of the yard.

2. Truck Turnaround Time

Definition: This is the time it takes for a truck to enter the CY, complete loading or unloading, and then exit.

Importance: This metric is crucial for trucking companies and shippers as it impacts the overall logistics chain's efficiency. Delays can lead to increased costs and operational inefficiencies.

Optimization Goal: To reduce this time for improved customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

3. Train Loading Time

Definition: The time required to load or unload containers from a train.

Importance: Efficient train loading is vital for maintaining the schedule of rail operations and ensuring timely deliveries.

Optimization Goal: To streamline the process for faster loading and unloading, thereby reducing dwell time for railcars.

4. Crane Moves per Hour

Definition: This measures the number of containers moved by a quay crane per hour.

Importance: It’s a direct measure of the productivity of the crane operations. Higher numbers indicate more efficient crane operations.

Optimization Goal: To increase the number of moves per hour, ensuring quick vessel turnaround.

5. Yard Moves per Hour

Definition: The number of containers moved by yard handling equipment per hour.

Importance: This metric reflects the efficiency of the internal movement of containers within the CY.

Optimization Goal: To enhance internal operational efficiency, leading to faster processing and reduced dwell times.

Monitoring and improving these metrics is vital for the optimization of Container Yard operations. It not only ensures the CY operates efficiently but also plays a significant role in the broader context of the global supply chain. By addressing bottlenecks and continually seeking ways to improve these key performance indicators, CYs can provide better service to shipping line customers and play a pivotal role in facilitating global trade.

In the management and operation of Container Yards (CYs), several challenges and considerations must be addressed to ensure efficiency, safety, and sustainability.

1. Congestion Management

Challenge: CYs often face space constraints, leading to congestion. This can slow down operations, causing delays in container handling and transportation.

Consideration: Effective space management and operational strategies are needed to optimize the use of available space and minimize congestion.

2. Environmental Impact

Challenge: CY operations can contribute to environmental issues, including air pollution from diesel-powered equipment and noise pollution.

Consideration: Implementing eco-friendly practices, such as using electric or low-emission equipment, and adopting noise reduction measures, is crucial to minimize the environmental footprint.

3. Technological Integration

Challenge: Keeping up with rapidly advancing technology for tracking containers and enhancing operational efficiency is a significant challenge.

Consideration: CYs need to invest in and continuously update their technological infrastructure. This includes adopting systems for real-time tracking, automated handling equipment, and efficient inventory management.

4. Safety Considerations

Challenge: The use of heavy equipment and handling of large containers pose significant safety risks to personnel.

Consideration: Prioritizing safety is paramount. This involves implementing strict safety protocols, regular training for workers, maintenance of equipment, and ensuring compliance with industry safety standards.

Addressing these challenges requires a balanced approach that considers operational efficiency, environmental responsibility, technological advancements, and safety. Effective solutions often involve a combination of policy changes, investments in new technologies, and ongoing training and development for staff. By tackling these challenges proactively, CYs can contribute positively to the broader logistics and supply chain ecosystem.

(Source : Firefly, Adobe)

In summary, container yards play an indispensable role in the global supply chain by providing a buffer location for the transfer of containers between ships and land transport. Their facilities, equipment, processes, and skilled workforce enable the consolidation and streamlined handling of millions of containers every year. Continued improvements in automation, data integration, and monitoring will drive gains in productivity and efficiency at CYs.