Authors; William Akoto Oppong
PhD. Candidate, Project Procurement Engineering
Buiness University of Costa Rica
email: waoppong@gmail.com
Abstract
Seaports and Marine Terminals are an essential link in the intermodal transfer of ocean cargo. Ports and Terminals facilitate the interchange of consumer goods exports between Ocean Carriers and land-based transportation such as trucks and railroads. Because of their essential functions and strategic locations, the viability and productiveness of Seaports can have a significant economic impact on the surrounding hinterland and national regions served. As such, many Seaports are owned and subsidized by public entities. Private Seaports, which are less prevalent, are often designed for single purpose cargo transfer (e.g., bulk products) for the benefit of a specific commercial enterprise or as a general cargo facility (e.g., in countries with limited national investment resources).
Container Ports specialize in the high volume transfer of Ocean Containers utilizing special purpose cargo management and handling equipment. Some Ports can achieve vessel discharge rates of over 50 Containers per hour. In addition to the traditional activities of carrier loading and unloading, freight consolidation, storage, and customs bonding and clearance, some Ports & Terminals are now providing Value-Added Services including, product labeling, inspection, packaging, assembly and product exhibition in or near Port facilities, often in areas designated as Foreign Trade Zones.
Keywords: Container Terminals, Ghana Port, Port Terminals
