The effects of pre-arrival vessel prioritisation strategies for port call coordination

This simulation study investigates the impacts of pre-arrival vessel prioritization strategies on port call coordination using a simulation model that integrates discrete-event and agent-based techniques. Motivated by the environmental and operational inefficiencies of the traditional first-come-first-served (FCFS) port policies, the simulation assesses how early and structured communication of arrival intentions, as first-announced-first-served (FAFS), can enhance berth allocation, improve resource utilization in the port, and reduce ship emissions. The model replicates a real port environment using empirical data and Python-based libraries evaluating multiple prioritization strategies under varying timing rules for port call announcements. Results demonstrate that structured pre-arrival announcements improve turnaround times and berth occupancy, particularly under strategies setting upper timing limits. However, results vary by terminal type and installed capacity. The findings underscore the need for improved digital infrastructure and cooperative governance to enable Just-in-Time (JIT) arrivals, highlighting the potential for simulation to support decision-making in port operations modernization.