Application of freight identification technologies to marine transportation

Abstract

This study was carried out to investigate the use of freight identification technology for marine container tracking. This research was also intended to evaluate the different forms of the technology and enlighten ocean carriers on the strengths and weaknesses of each technology. The various currently available products and the technologies they represent are identified along with their technical characteristics. Three metrics are identified to assist in evaluating the technologies for this application. These are: Level of Service, Cost, and Institutional or Legal factors. The technologies are evaluated in relationship to these metrics and several implementation strategies are suggested. Included are descriptions of some of the technical background and features of the technologies.