Using smart systems to cut energy and operating costs in shipping

ABSTRACT

Effective cost management in maritime transport is critically important for making global logistics more competitive. The introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies opens up new opportunities for optimizing operational processes, reducing fuel costs, improving logistics chains, and increasing the accuracy of demand forecasting.

Modern innovative technologies, in particular artificial intelligence systems, can become key tools in solving these problems. Intelligent shipping management systems are already actively used in global practice, enabling fuel consumption forecasting, maintenance process automation, route optimization, and reduction of manual labor requirements.

Considering the economic feasibility and growing need to implement AI in maritime transport, there is a need to comprehensively investigate how these technologies contribute to cost optimization, increased efficiency of logistics operations, and the formation of sustainable development in the industry.

               Objective.

To investigate the impact of artificial intelligence technologies on the economic efficiency of maritime transport, identify mechanisms for reducing costs through the use of intelligent fleet and navigation management systems, and assess their contribution to improving the operational performance of shipping companies.

Materials and methods.

The study uses economic analysis methods to assess the effectiveness of AI implementation in maritime logistics, in particular, analysis of fuel, maintenance, and navigation cost reductions. Comparative analysis was used to compare traditional and automated approaches to route planning, as well as statistical models for forecasting costs, profitability, and container transport load.

Results.

The results of the study showed that the implementation of artificial intelligence systems provides a significant increase in the economic efficiency of maritime transport. The use of machine learning algorithms to optimize routes reduces fuel costs by 10–15%, which is especially important given the high cost of energy.

Automated technical diagnostics and maintenance systems reduce repair and fleet downtime costs, delivering savings of up to 20%. Artificial intelligence technologies are also effective in forecasting demand and optimizing container utilization, helping to reduce logistics costs by 8–12% and improving cargo flow management efficiency.

Intelligent fleet management systems optimize crew utilization, reducing administrative and operational costs while increasing productivity and safety.

Prospects. Given the positive economic impact of artificial intelligence in maritime transport, further research should focus on developing strategies for integrating AI into global maritime logistics, assessing the effectiveness of investments in digital technologies, and studying the impact of regulatory initiatives on innovation in the industry. The development of automated navigation and maritime transport management systems will contribute to improving the efficiency of global logistics and strengthening the competitive position of companies using intelligent technologies.