18-Dec-2014

The Port of Felixstowe has become the first port in the UK to release a mobile phone app to give customers up-to-date container status information at their fingertips.

The app will alert customers with updates on a specific vessel or container. Notification emails can be requested when a named ship arrives in the port and when the container is discharged, cleared and ready for collection.

Commenting on the development, Mark Seaman, Finance Director at the port, said:

“We have listened to our customers. They need accurate and timely information to plan and deliver efficient supply chains. To provide that we have launched MyPort App: it gives easy access to the latest information on the status of shipments as they pass through the port.

“The MyPort app reflects the Port of Felixstowe’s commitment to delivering for the real needs of its customers. It makes it easier for them to obtain the latest container and shipping information, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”

MyPort benefits importers, receivers, forwarders, hauliers or anyone else with an interest in a consignment passing through the port. It is useful either for a ‘hot box’ or a regular shipment. The App also works for both import and export containers and tracks information in real time.

Built for iOS (Apple) and Android smartphones, the app is divided into four sections and includes the popular Haulier and Shipping Information tools from the Port of Felixstowe website. In addition to allowing users to track containers or specific vessels, the latest 5-day weather forecast for the port and details of freight train arrivals and departures are easily accessible.

Using a container number, users can track the status of a container through the port in real time in the Haulier Information section. The five-stage tracking progress bar provides information about the status of containers and notifies users when a container is ready for collection. While the Shipping Information section allows users to quickly see the estimated times of arrival and departure of specific vessels plus the closing times for any containers destined for that ship. Users can also opt to receive email notifications for whenever the rail schedule is updated.

MyPort was developed following consultation with the port’s customers and key stakeholders. Focus group sessions helped developers to determine stakeholder needs to ensure the App delivers a real improvement in speed, depth and convenience of information.

The MyPort App can be downloaded free of charge from the App Store or Google Play.