Maritime Tech Vendors Aim to Help Importers Reduce Costs

As importers face continued pressure to reduce costs, maritime technology vendors are positioning themselves to provide the data and insights needed to make strategic decisions. According to the *Journal of Commerce*, the wealth of data generated within logistics software platforms is part of a 'web of information' that can help shippers weigh service levels and inventory carrying costs against rate levels. This is particularly important as importers navigate the uncertain economic outlook and seek to optimize their supply chains. 'The data generated within our software is part of a web of information that helps shippers weigh service levels and inventory carrying costs against rate levels,' said one industry executive quoted in the *JOC* article. 'Shippers are looking to us to provide that kind of analysis to help them make the right decisions.' The news comes as major carriers like Zim and CMA CGM report declines in revenue and volume amid the post-pandemic normalization of demand. Zim saw a 13% drop in cross-Suez volumes and 10% decline in trans-Atlantic volumes in Q4 2022, while CMA CGM expects 'moderate growth' after revenue and profit fell in 2025. In this environment, maritime technology providers are positioning themselves as strategic partners to help importers identify opportunities to reduce costs through data-driven decision making. By leveraging the wealth of information in their platforms, these vendors aim to provide the insights shippers need to weather the current market volatility.