Designing a Fuzzy Delphi-based Analytical Framework to Prioritize Factors Influencing Port Congestion

In the global supply chain, port congestion is a leading bottleneck that affects operation costs and efficiencies due to unexpected delays. This research presents a Fuzzy Delphi method for analysing the factors responsible for port congestion to provide a decision-making tool for port authorities. In the framework, fuzzy logic was used to manage vagueness and uncertainty in experts' opinions about the 12 main factors that cause congestion in ports. Some factors considered are infrastructure limitations, regulatory inefficiencies and labour shortages. Through an iterative process, this study refined experts' consensus about the factors regarding Tin Can Island Port to identify the most influential factors that require immediate intervention. This study’s findings showed that demurrage, delay and automation were causing congestion in Tin Can Island Port. Apart from these factors, fuel surcharge and capacity utilisation were also contributors to this port’s congestion. This prioritisation will enable stakeholders to make informed decisions that optimise resource allocation within ports. Hence, the proposed framework will enhance port sustainability, especially operational efficiencies, and port competitiveness.