AI Agents for Shipping, Inland Waterway, and Maritime Services | Match-AI

The shipping and inland waterway sector is characterized by complex logistical chains, strict international regulations, and time-critical port operations. From container ships to inland barges: efficient communication and document flows determine profitability. AI agents automate administrative and communicative processes so crews and planners can focus on safety and operational efficiency.

Voyage Planning and Port Coordination

An AI agent manages voyage planning and communication with ports and agents: when the ETA (estimated time of arrival) is adjusted, the system automatically sends updates to the port agent, terminal planning system, and cargo receiver. In case of delay the system automatically calculates the domino impact on subsequent discharge and loading operations and proactively informs all involved parties.

• ETA update: automatically to port agent, terminal, and receiver
• Delay impact: calculate domino effect and inform all parties
• Port infrastructure: automatically request berth availability upon arrival
• Customs pre-arrival: automatically submit documents 24-48h before arrival

Cargo Management and Customer Communication

Shippers and receivers want real-time insight into the status of their cargo. An AI agent manages cargo communication: at every status change (cargo on board, port departure, arrival at destination port, discharge complete) the customer automatically receives an update. When deviating from the planned cargo time the system proactively sends a notification with the new expected timeline.

• Loading confirmation: upon departure with cargo overview
• Transit update: upon passage of lock, border, or intermediate port
• Discharge ready notification: upon arrival at destination port
• Deviation notification: proactively upon delay or damage incident

Crew Planning and Compliance

Crew management in shipping is complex due to international certification requirements (STCW), variable sailing schedules, and strict working time legislation (MLC 2006). An AI agent monitors certification expiry dates per crew member and automatically sends a reminder 90, 60, and 30 days before a certificate expires. The system also monitors rest and sailing times per crew member and flags when maximum consecutive sailing time is at risk of being exceeded.

Match-AI implements AI agents for shipping companies, inland waterway operators, ship agents, freight forwarders, port companies, and maritime service providers that want to automate their document flows and improve customer satisfaction.