The thesis focuses on the key roles and tasks of the Port Forwarders Section of the Chamber
of Commerce and Industry of Slovenia (Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Slovenia). In
the thesis, I investigate the role of port forwarders in the maritime logistics process, where
they ensure the smooth flow of cargo and the optimisation of logistics processes in the port of
Koper. Maritime logistics enables the efficient transport of goods across the world's seas,
where the focus is not only on maritime transport, but also on the successful organisation of
land transport to and from ports. The thesis presents the organisation of maritime transport,
which includes the processes of organising maritime transport, route planning, fleet
management, cargo management, issuing and transfer of documentation and the customs
status of goods in transit. In doing so, the port forwarder must ensure seamless
communication, risk management, security of cargo and personnel, and also pursue
environmentally friendly processes. This places the emphasis on qualified staff and the
establishment of quality standards of operation.
The Port Forwarders' Association plays a key role in ensuring the safety, efficiency and
competitiveness of port services through the Port of Koper. In this respect, it actively
cooperates with organisations such as CLECAT, FIATA, the Chamber of Commerce and
Industry of Slovenia and the Association of Maritime Transport Agencies of Slovenia, in the
areas of setting standards and representing the interests of freight forwarders. Maritime
logistics faces many challenges such as stricter environmental regulations, geopolitical
tensions, security risks and delays in fleet and cargo arrivals. It was clear from the discussion
with the representative of the Association of Port Forwarders that forwarders need to focus on
the use of advanced technologies, the digitisation of processes and the promotion of
sustainable practices to improve the efficiency and competitiveness of maritime logistics,
which in turn has a positive impact on the performance of logistics chains.
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