Impact of global terminal operators on port efficiency: a tiered data envelopment analysis approach

This study evaluates how different types of global terminal operators (GTOs)-global stevedores (GS), global hybrids (GH), and global carriers (GC)-shape port efficiency. Both crane efficiency and relative technical efficiency of ports, measured through tiered data envelopment analysis, are examined based on levels of GTO participation in container production. The participation of GS in the terminal operation of a port induces higher crane efficiency. Yet this efficiency is not effectively transformed into port level efficiency. This is related to the GS's intensive utilisation of ship-to-shore gantry cranes, while the land-side operation is greatly influenced by different regional practices and hinterland distribution networks. In contrast, carrier-controlled global operators and dedicated leased terminals do not produce the same efficiency levels as other GSs do. Their major incentive to participating in terminal operation is to secure accessibility to key regional port facilities. The implication is that port authorities may opt to increase levels of intra-port competition to address efficiency concerns at a port level.