Rethinking Port Charges in the Age of Autonomous Shipping

Abstract

The development and deployment of autonomous vessels will lead to numerous technological changes in the inland waterways cargo transportation, and consequently, to changes in the types and magnitudes of costs borne by ship operators. It is evident that these new circumstances will require a reassessment of existing port charging models. Traditional port pricing systems are based on assumptions that will no longer align with the expected advantages and operational processes associated with autonomous motor cargo vessels (aMCVs). If the current method of charging remains unchanged, there is a risk that autonomous vessels will be treated less favorably than traditional ones, despite their higher efficiency and other benefits. This paper analyzes the technological, economic, and regulatory dimensions of the transformation of port services in the autonomy era. Special attention is given to the identification of cost elements relevant for aMCVs. The influence of digital platforms on the calculation of port charges is examined. The results indicate the necessity of developing port pricing models based on actual use of resources and infrastructure. New charging models could serve as incentives for the development of more efficient, environmentally friendly, and safer autonomous vessels. The introduction of new port charging models should aim at achieving a more sustainable and functionally oriented system of port charges in the age of autonomous shipping.