The Digital Container Shipping Association (DCSA) has released Port Call Standard 2.0, an updated version of the Just-in-Time (JIT)/Port Call 1.2 Beta standard.
The new release introduces a simplified API structure and additional operational data designed to make port-call planning more practical to implement across organisations involved in operational port-call data exchange.
Port Call 2.0 streamlines message requirements and adds forecasted units to move or restow information. These changes address key gaps identified by users in earlier versions of the standard, including the absence of move data needed for berth planning and the level of complexity in the previous version.
The latest version closely follows DCSA’s API guidelines, giving implementers a more predictable structure and reducing the effort required to integrate the standard into existing systems.
With these updates, stakeholders can exchange timely operational events more easily and establish a shared operational picture of a vessel call. This improves planning for berthing, pilotage, towage and landside resources, while reducing manual coordination and variability in the arrival process. Independent studies indicate that better-aligned port calls help lower fuel use, reduce emissions, cut waiting time and optimise infrastructure utilisation.
Kristina Jumelet, the Product Owner behind the updated Port Call standard at DCSA, said “Port Call 2.0 reflects what the industry told us it needed: a simpler structure, the right operational data and more flexibility in how messages can be used. These updates make the standard easier to adopt and more aligned with how carriers, terminals and technology providers manage port-call activities in practice.”
Iker Echave, DCSA Head of Standards adds “Recent DCSA standards releases, including the updated Port Call 2.0, signal a shift in our approach. We are placing greater emphasis on practical adoption and providing choices that make implementation easier across diverse systems. This keeps the core standard consistent while lowering barriers and supporting wider alignment across the industry.”
The updated standard is available to any organisation involved in exchanging operational port-call data, including technology providers, PCS vendors, carriers and terminal operators. Organisations currently using Port Call 1.2 Beta will need to transition to Port Call 2.0, which will supersede the earlier version. DCSA invites organisations to contact the standards team to discuss testing, integration or alignment with Port Call 2.0.
