Disruptions in large container shipping networks: How Operations Research can help to get container vessels back on schedule and minimize impact on cargo

In large liner shipping networks, several hundred container vessels operate 24/7,following planned routes and timetables. These networks constantly face unexpected disruptions of varying magnitude. Among the most common reasons are bad weather, port congestions, labour strikes or equipment breakdowns at ports or on vessels. Disruptions may result in delayed vessels, temporarily disabled vessels, reduced port productivity, and port closures. Due to the cargo-driven connectivity of liner shipping networks, even a single delayed vessel can create ripple effects that affect multiple other vessels. Resolving disruptions is a trade-off between minimizing operational vessel costs and port call costs on one side, and minimizing the impact on cargo, such as delays andre-routings, on the other side. We present a model and solution method that generates a set of recovery plans for the decision maker. We present preliminary results for testcases that were developed together with our industrial collaborator Mærsk. We will further discuss various challenges that arise in practice - such as incomplete information and intangible costs - and how we deal with those.