Measuring the Performance of Container Terminals Using Data Envelopment Analysis; A case study from Iskenderun Bay

In developing and growing economies, the greatest need is for raw materials. Additionally, facilitating the delivery of the materials which are used for production and those produced for consumption to end users is of great importance. Sea transport and container shipping are the most widely used methods in the execution of these activities. In this study, the aim is to determine to what extent the increasing international logistics needs in the container shipping sector can be met through the container terminals in the İskenderun Bay, and which measures has need to analyse to enhance the performance of these terminals. Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) method was used to determine the relative efficiency of container terminals, which is a non-parametric method. The input values and output values of the decision units (container terminals) identified within the scope of the study for the last five years were obtained, and their efficiency during this period was examined. In the analysis, the input variables considered were quay length, container storage area, number of berth cranes, the amount of ship berths, the amount of container handling equipment, while the output variable was the handled container quantity. Efficiency measurements were obtained using Data Envelopment Analysis, CCR, BCC input and output-oriented results were obtained. A comparison of efficiency among the evaluated container terminals was made within the scope of the study, and recommendations were provided for the enhancement of inefficient decision-making units.