Companies in this industry operate ports and harbors and provide water transportation support services, including cargo handling and vessel navigation. Major companies include APM Terminals (Netherlands), COSCO Shipping Ports (China), DP World (United Arab Emirates), Hutchison Port Holdings (Hong Kong), and PSA International (Singapore).
COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
Demand is driven by interregional and international trade. The profitability of individual companies depends on efficient operations and reliable service. Large companies, some of which have terminals in dozens of countries, have advantages in capacity and geographic reach. Small companies can compete effectively by serving regional markets or providing specialized services. The US industry is concentrated: the 50 largest firms generate about 70% of industry revenue.
PRODUCTS, OPERATIONS & TECHNOLOGY
Major services include cargo handling (about 55% of US industry revenue); navigational services such as docking and undocking ships and tugboat piloting (20%); and port and harbor operation and maintenance (about 15%). Other services include cargo checking and routine ship maintenance and repair.