The International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI) is seeking to roll out its ICTSI App to its other global terminals to provide real-time cargo visibility.

In a statement, the port operator said the ICTSI App is a secure operative tool that enables port users and cargo owners to monitor the status of their shipments that are loaded and offloaded from a vessel and those that are hauled in or out of the port.

The app — launched in 2022 — allows users to track their cargo at the Manila International Container Terminal and NorthPort — both in the Port of Manila, Subic Bay International Terminals in Zambales, Laguna Gateway Inland Container Terminal in Calamba, and Mindanao Container Terminal in Cagayan de Oro. 

ICTSI said the ICTSI App currently has close to 29,000 users and will soon be available for customers of Adriatic Gate Container Terminal in Croatia, South Pacific International Container Terminal and Motukea International Terminal in Papua New Guinea, Onne Multipurpose Terminal in Nigeria, and Matadi Gateway Terminal in D.R. Congo. 

"We understand the challenge businesses face when it comes to managing their shipments effectively. Our response is to develop an app that provides our clients with real-time data that could help them improve their logistics planning," said Christian R. Gonzalez, ICTSI executive vice president. 

"By being able to track their shipments, our customers can generate data-driven insights to streamline their operations and lower their logistics costs," he added.

The ICTSI App has three main features that promote visibility and transparency — vessel monitoring, container tracking and truck tracking. 

The vessel monitoring feature lets users track the container vessel that's transporting their cargo and receive updates on the expected arrival and departure from a port.

It also provides insights on pre-advice, loading and payment cutoffs — information that would help businesses align their logistics activities accordingly to avoid potential delays.

Container tracking informs users of the real-time status of their containers from the moment they arrive at the port up to their departure.

This helps cargo owners manage their shipments more efficiently to ensure they reach the end destinations as planned.

Using the truck tracking feature, ICTSI noted that businesses that rely on road transport can monitor their trucks from the moment they enter until they exit the terminal.

This information can be used to improve fleet management and streamline ground operations.

Users can create watchlists to track multiple vessels, trucks, and containers, and receive push notifications for important logistics updates.

The app also enables users to conveniently share updates and other information with stakeholders via email and messaging apps on their phones.

"This app is a game-changer for port users and businesses who can leverage the transparency features to enhance their decision-making and improve their customer service. We are working to add new features and expand the app's coverage to include other terminals in the ICTSI Group," Gonzalez added.

The ICTSI App is part of the port operator's continued investment in new technology and digital solutions.

Over the past decade, ICTSI said it has invested more than US$20 million in information technology for its flagship Manila International Container Terminal alone.

ICTSI currently operates 32 terminals in 19 countries.