New study finds real-time cargo data is still missing at the industry’s most critical mid-operation phase
ATLANTA — February 4, 2026 — Kaleris, a global provider of leading supply chain software, has released a new research study analyzing maritime cargo communication in partnership with intelligence firm Thetius. The report finds that despite decades of investment in terminal operating systems, vessel planning tools and cloud-based platforms, cargo data exchange across the maritime ecosystem remains fragmented, inconsistent and heavily dependent on manual communication.
According to the study, effective data exchange occurs at only two points in a vessel’s port call: the pre-stowage plan and the final loading confirmation. This leaves the entire mid-operation phase without reliable real-time visibility for terminals, carriers and vessel crews.
“Improving cargo data exchange isn’t about adding more technology, it’s about creating shared rules, shared language, and shared confidence. When those foundations are in place, the industry can finally operate with the speed and clarity modern supply chains demand,” said Nick Chubb, Founder of Thetius.
Key Findings from the Research:
- The mid-operation phase remains a blind spot: Most terminals and carriers report no structured exchange of operational data during active cargo operations, despite 90% saying real-time updates are essential.
- Data exchange is fragmented: Operational data is exchanged through multiple channels including, email, WhatsApp, phone calls, PDFs, spreadsheets and legacy EDI rather than through a single structured system.
- Update timing is inconsistent: Communication ranges from “immediate” to “once a week,” with no shared expectations between partners.
- Manual intervention persists: Even highly automated terminals struggle with mismatched formats, missing data and incompatible EDI versions.
- Commercial and cultural barriers remain: Concerns around ROI, operational exposure and misaligned incentives slow progress.
- Safety risks are rising: Crews frequently receive outdated or incorrect stowage or dangerous goods data, a growing challenge as vessels increase in size and complexity.
The report concludes that although technology for real-time data exchange already exists, industry-wide adoption is limited by uneven digital maturity across ports, fragmented standards and a lack of shared governance.
“This research reinforces a simple truth: the maritime supply chain is only as strong as the data connecting it. The issue is the lack of connection between systems. A modern exchange layer, such as the Kaleris Execution Visibility Platform, can provide every stakeholder with a shared, trusted view of operations so they can plan better, operate safer and adapt faster,” said Kirk Knauff, CEO of Kaleris.
Thetius’ expert analysts outline a practical, phased framework to help the industry move beyond fragmented communication and toward a more connected future. By adopting this approach, terminals, carriers and vessels can operate from a unified, real-time view of operations, enabling safer, more predictable, and more efficient port calls.
Learn more about the research by viewing this on-demand webinar and downloading the report. https://47509316.hs-sites.com/kaleris-rethinking-cargo-data-exchange
About Kaleris
Kaleris is a leading global software company focused on solving the world’s most complex supply chain transportation challenges. Trusted by more than 680 companies in 97 countries, Kaleris delivers mission-critical solutions for yard and transportation management, terminal operations, and ocean shipping. Our technology elevates the supply chain by creating a more connected, visible, and reliable logistics ecosystem. By closing data and operational gaps that cause inefficiencies, Kaleris empowers customers to achieve their goals. Learn more at http://www.kaleris.com.
Media contact: Suzy Swindle, suzy.swindle@kaleris.com