Running container operations has never been simple. But as we head into 2026, it’s getting noticeably more complex.
Operators are under pressure to move more containers, respond faster, and protect margins – all while dealing with more systems, tighter port windows, and increasingly stretched teams. What used to feel like everyday friction is now slowing businesses down in very real ways.
From juggling too many platforms, to wasted trips, to admin that never seems to shrink, these are the three challenges we hear about again and again from container operators collecting and dropping containers at terminals.
1. Too many systems, not enough clarity
One of the biggest frustrations in container operations is just how many systems teams are expected to use.
Whether you’re running import-export container moves across Europe or managing England–Ireland flows, you’re likely switching between a mix of customs portals, terminal systems, ferry bookings, slot management tools – often all with different logins and workflows.
We regularly speak to operators who have five (or more) tabs open just to check if a container is released for collection or to book a ferry slot. Do that across dozens or hundreds of containers, and suddenly a big chunk of your day disappears.
It’s not just inefficient, it’s risky. The more systems you jump between, the easier it is for something to get missed or entered incorrectly. And in container operations, even small errors can turn into expensive problems.
The issue isn’t that teams need better spreadsheets. It’s that they need fewer places to look to understand what’s actually happening.
2. Wasted trips are still eating into margins
Another challenge that doesn’t always get enough attention is wasted trips.
When teams don’t have clear, up-to-date visibility on container release and handling status, planning becomes reactive. That’s when you start seeing failed collections, missed pickups, and backhauls that go out empty when they didn’t need to.
Reuse planning is also incredibly hard without good data. If you’re not confident a container will be available in time, it’s often safer to move it empty – but those empty miles add up quickly and quietly chip away at margins.
Operators who manage this well aren’t just “better planners.” They’re working from reliable, real-time information that lets them make decisions earlier – and with more confidence.
3. Admin is still slowing everything down
Admin might not be the most exciting topic, but it’s one of the biggest drags on container operations.
A single container order can easily involve 20+ data points. In many teams, someone is still manually copying that information from emails, PDFs, and portals into internal systems. It’s necessary work – but it’s also time-consuming and repetitive.
Then there’s documentation. Chasing PODs and customs paperwork slows down invoicing, which means delays to cash flow.
Add subcontractor management into the mix and things get even tighter. With strict port and terminal slots, clear communication is essential. One missed update can mean a missed slot – and suddenly you’re dealing with delays, failed drops, or collections that never happened.
The most efficient operators aren’t adding more people to handle admin. They’re finding ways to remove it from the process altogether.
A more connected way of running container operations
None of these challenges are new. What is changing is how willing operators are to keep working around them.
Container operations work best when systems talk to each other, when teams have real-time visibility, and when admin doesn’t dominate the day. That’s the thinking behind platforms like Qargo.
Container work also has a workflow that many legacy TMS setups don’t handle cleanly. A single move often includes multiple legs (empty pickup, full drop, empty return, depot), plus terminal gates, customs milestones, ferry legs, and subcontractor handovers. If those steps live in notes, inboxes, and separate portals, teams end up planning on assumptions and chasing timestamps and PODs after the fact.
The operators that stay in control connect release, execution, and proof-for-invoice in one operational workflow, so decisions are made from what’s true in the operation, not what’s hoped.
How Qargo helps container operators
- Fewer systems to juggle
Qargo integrates with major ferry operators (Irish Ferries, Stena Line, P&O Ferries) to streamline intermodal bookings and reduce time spent across multiple systems. - Real-time container visibility
Live container and handling status from Portbase, Destin8 and PSA integrations bring port and terminal updates directly into Qargo, giving teams a clear, up-to-date view without switching systems.
- Less manual admin
Automating parts of job creation and operational workflows helps teams spend less time re-keying data.
We needed better traceability, more automation, and a way to scale our service with the business growth plans. – Craig Perrin, Director at Hemisphere Freight Services
- Faster access to documents
PODs can be uploaded via the driver app, helping teams get invoice-ready sooner. - Smarter reuse and trip planning
Filtered views and smart trip planning support better reuse decisions and help reduce empty legs. - Streamlined port workflows
Qargo already simplifies port processes and is investing in AI agents to help automate time slot booking directly through terminal portals.
Conclusion
The container operators who do well in 2026 won’t be the ones working the longest hours or juggling the most systems.
They’ll be the ones who simplify — who give their teams better visibility, fewer manual tasks, and clearer workflows. In a world of growing complexity, reducing friction is one of the biggest competitive advantages you can have.
If you want to learn how Qargo can simply contain operations for your business, speak to a member of our team today.
