TACOMA, Wash. – As global supply chains continue to face delays, soaring freight rates, and equipment shortages, U.S. agricultural exporters are demanding more reliable and efficient ocean shipping services than ever before. The Agricultural Transportation Coalition (AgTC) has released its highly anticipated "Ocean Carrier Performance Survey" results during its 31st annual conference in Tacoma, Washington.
This 14-year-running survey collects direct feedback from U.S. agricultural importers and exporters, serving as an authoritative assessment of ocean carriers' service quality.
OOCL Named Top Performer, ONE and Evergreen Follow
Orient Overseas Container Line (OOCL) earned the "Best Ocean Carrier" title and received the prestigious award for its outstanding performance. Ocean Network Express (ONE) and Evergreen Marine also demonstrated strong results, ranking in the top tier. These results reflect shippers' high recognition of these carriers' performance across critical service metrics.
OOCL's top position demonstrates its excellence in meeting the specific needs of U.S. agricultural exporters and building a strong reputation in the competitive market.
Comprehensive Survey Evaluates 11 Key Metrics
The survey evaluated carriers across eleven critical service dimensions that impact agricultural exporters:
1. Documentation Accuracy and Timeliness: Efficient document processing directly affects customs clearance speed.
2. Rate Quote Responsiveness: Quick responses to rate inquiries help exporters make timely decisions.
3. Rate Competitiveness: Affordable freight rates significantly impact exporters' profitability.
4. Claims Service: Efficient handling of damage or loss claims demonstrates carrier responsibility.
5. Invoice Accuracy: Error-free billing prevents unnecessary disputes and delays.
6. Schedule Reliability: On-time vessel arrivals and departures affect supply chain efficiency.
7. Ease of Doing Business: Carrier cooperation and streamlined processes enhance user experience.
8. Booking Cancellations/Rolling: How carriers manage capacity shortages shows commitment to customers.
9. Equipment and Space Allocation: Availability of containers and space during peak seasons.
10. Problem Resolution: Ability to quickly address issues like damages or delays.
11. Customer Service: Quality of communication, responsiveness, and support.
Industry Satisfaction Continues Decline
Separate research from London-based Drewry shows shipper satisfaction with ocean services has been declining, making the AgTC survey results particularly valuable. In today's challenging supply chain environment, carriers must prioritize service quality to earn shippers' trust.
AgTC Executive Director Peter Friedmann praised the winners: "Congratulations to all award recipients! We're encouraged that so many carriers value this annual evaluation before peak season." His comments reflect AgTC's ongoing commitment to improving ocean shipping services for agricultural exporters.
About AgTC
The Agricultural Transportation Coalition represents U.S. agricultural and forest product importers and exporters. The organization promotes fair, efficient, and reliable ocean shipping services while providing members with a platform for communication and collaboration.