Multilevel analysis of bulk shipping fleet productivity: a big data approach

Fleet productivity is an important element in shipping economics, a defining factor in the asset’s profitability, and a key driver of the emission footprint of the industry. This paper analyzes the productivity of bulk vessels in a multi-dimensional framework by utilizing over 800,000 voyages data which were carried out by 17,764 vessels over a 7-year horizon and was derived from the Automated Identification System. An examination of the underlying factors driving transportation output provides further understanding of how the operational behaviours impact vessel productivity. The insights from this research have important implications for policy making in investment, operational enhancement, and emission reduction.