Role of Ports in Supply Chain Management

Nowadays a customer satisfaction is one of the main creators for successful entrepreneur`s performance. According to Lam (2015) and Caris, Limbourg, Macharis & Cool (2014) cost and price competitiveness, pollution reduction, efficient use of fuel and resources, integrated into the intermodal chain, with quality jobs occupied by a skilled workface, and stick to high environmental standards, health, safety and security are main factors that influence port`s daily requirements. Also low freight rates and competitive shipper demand at supply chain have a big impact on harbour. (Lam, 2015) Song & Parola (2015) research endorse the competiveness of the harbours becomes a subject of increasing significance for companies involved in a supply chain and the impact or port activities on the environmental, social and economic development of the regions in which the ports is located. According to above mentioned allegations it is worth to take a look on the ports overall impact and connections with Supply Chain, as well mention the main three key factors which describe and influence ports characteristics. In this case - type of cargo, type of vessel, and geographical location.