Webb Fontaine: Implementation of a Port Community System

The successful and effective adoption and implementation of a Port Community System (PCS) depends upon on, at the very first instance, three basic factors; firstly accepting there is a problem with port operations, recognizing that a PCS is the solution, and demonstrating a willingness to incorporate it across an entire organization and related stakeholders.

More specifically, developing a PCS process depends on an agreement to integrate at the local and government levels to create an effective and open corridor for the transnational movement of goods. All of the necessary framework that is drafted and agreed upon must be comprehensive enough to address and react to any eventuality in order to maintain the operational consistency of the corridor.

Consistency is the key. The operational, functional and technical feasibility of rolling out a system as complicated and far-reaching as a PCS must be considered and presented to stakeholders at every level.

This includes engagement with each stage of a port’s logistics chain, from the companies that own the ships being loaded with containers to the local factories producing the goods that will fill the containers and travel the world – and everything above, below and in between.

The operational consistency a PCS can deliver can only be achieved through the full adoption of automation; only by moving into a modern, sophisticated, computer-led and 100% paperless environment can ports and their associated communities of firms and stakeholders expect to grow and thrive in today’s globally connected and computerized trade landscape.

Moving into a document-free workplace is not without hurdles, but these are minor when compared to the huge benefits port operators and logistics providers can expect to enjoy as a result.

At its very essence, a PCS is an advanced IT platform that allows for the automation of all logistics related business strategies and procedures. As the leading expert in the streamlining of trade and customs, Webb Fontaine’s PCS implementation process follows a collaborative methodology that involves every aspect of operations and all business partners.

The result is a fully optimized trade and customs landscape with the PCS system’s full implementation ensuring the total success of the project.

By creating fluidify in trade processes, the PCS allows for reduced processing times and the swifter and more efficientexchange of information with no need for long and convoluted paper trails – the result is a rapidly processed and completely monitored flow of goods in and out of a port.

The digitised scanning, documenting and tracking of cargo in real time is a major benefit of the PCS system, with each step of the process fully transparent to the wider logistics community and important customs authorities.

Author: Jean-Edouard Nicolet

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About Webb Fontaine

Webb Fontaine is a leading provider of solutions for trade facilitation; powered by world-class technology, investing in the largest research and development centres in the trade area. Webb Fontaine is headquartered in Dubai, U.A.E. with a presence across Europe, Middle East, Asia and Africa.

www.webbfontaine.com