Course in Container Terminal Operations
The Course in Container Terminal Operations provides comprehensive training in the management and efficiency of port operations. It focuses on optimising container handling, berth planning and the use of specialised equipment such as ship-to-shore gantry cranes, rubber-tyred gantry cranes and reach stackers. Key topics include port safety and security, transport logistics and compliance with international regulations. The course develops skills in coordinating workflows and reducing vessel and truck turnaround times to raise overall productivity.
The course offers a practical understanding of terminal operating systems (TOS) and best practice for container stacking and vessel stowage planning. It builds the ability to use data analysis for decision-making and the continuous improvement of processes. The programme is aimed at professionals who aspire to roles such as operations supervisor, terminal planner and container flow manager, strengthening their competitiveness in the maritime industry.
Target keywords (used naturally in the text): container handling, port operations, container terminal management, transport logistics, specialised equipment, port security, berth planning.
Take the controls.
Run a real engineering trade-off from this programme. Move the sliders, watch the model react in real time and beat the challenge.
What you will be able to do
Complete Command of Efficient Container Terminal Operations
Integrated Optimisation and Expert Management of Container Terminals
Integrated Terminal Planning and Validation Focused on Performance (from Modelling to Execution)
In-Depth Analysis and Optimisation of Container Terminal Operations
Mastery of Container Terminal Operation and Profitability
Excellence in Planning and Executing Container Terminal Operations
Mastery of Container Terminal Operation and Productivity
Specialisation in Container Terminal Operation and Profitability
Who it's for
- Maritime and port-sector professionals, including:
- Container terminal operators and staff.
- Port operations managers and supervisors.
- Logistics and maritime transport personnel.
- Customs agents and freight forwarders.
- Students and recent graduates in related fields, such as:
- Transport and Logistics Engineering.
- Business Administration with a specialisation in international trade.
- Technical studies related to port operations.
- People interested in developing a professional career in container terminal operations.
- Professionals who want to update their knowledge and skills in the latest technologies and trends in the sector.
What you'll work with
- Standards-driven curriculum: you will work with the ISPS Code, ISO 6346, ISO 668, ISO 28000, SOLAS VGM and the IMDG Code from the first module.
- Simulation and planning labs with discrete-event simulation, TOS sandbox environments, yard and berth planning and terminal digital twins.
- Evidence-based final project: operational study, KPI baseline, improvement plan and business case.
- Industry mentoring: faculty with experience in terminal operations, yard and vessel planning, automated terminals and port performance.
- Flexible format (hybrid/online), international cohorts and support from SEIUM Career Services.
- Ethics and safety: a safety-by-design approach, cyber-OT security, ISPS and compliance as core pillars.
10 modules
- Module 1 — Introduction to Container Terminals
1.1History and Evolution of Container Terminals1.2Key Components of a Container Terminal1.3Terminal Workflows: Gate-In, Storage, Gate-Out1.4Essential Equipment and Machinery (Cranes, Reach Stackers, etc.)1.5Container Types and Their Characteristics (ISO 668, ISO 1496)1.6Safety and Security Principles in Container Terminals1.7Basic Concepts of Port Operations1.8Organisational Structure of a Container Terminal1.9Relevant Maritime Regulations and Conventions (SOLAS, CSC, ISPS)1.10Introduction to Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
2.1Analysis of Container Terminal Layout and Infrastructure2.2Strategic Planning of Capacity and Space2.3Layout Design and Container Flow2.4Selection and Design of Handling Equipment Systems2.5Design Considerations for Safety and Efficiency2.6Integration of Automation Technologies (ASC, AGV)2.7Design of Storage and Stacking Areas2.8Design of Quays and Berths2.9Environmental and Sustainability Considerations in Design2.10Case Studies: Design and Planning of Successful Terminals
3.1Strategic Planning in Container Terminals3.2Design of Optimised Terminal Workflows3.3Resource Management and Staff Allocation3.4Implementation of Terminal Operating Systems (TOS)3.5Optimising Productivity and Operational Efficiency3.6Risk Analysis and Mitigation in Operations3.7Supply Chain Management and Integrated Logistics3.8KPIs and Performance Metrics in Terminals3.9Sustainability and Environmental Practices in Terminals (ISO 14001)3.10Case Studies: Successful Strategies in Container Terminals
4.1Introduction to Container Terminals: Structure and Functions4.2Types of Terminals and Their Specific Operations4.3Container Flow: From Vessel to Hinterland and Back4.4Essential Equipment and Machinery: Types and Applications4.5Safety in Terminals: Regulations and Good Practice (ISO 45001)4.6Yard Space Management and Container Stacking4.7Loading, Discharge and Transfer Processes4.8Information Systems in Terminals: Software and EDI (UN/EDIFACT)4.9Principles of Operational Planning: Efficiency and Productivity4.10Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in Terminals
5.1Introduction to Container Terminals and Their Importance5.2Structure and Key Components of a Terminal5.3Types of Terminals: Characteristics and Functions5.4Operational Flow: From Vessel Arrival to Container Gate-Out5.5Equipment and Machinery: Cranes, Stackers, Tractors and Automated Systems5.6Staff and Roles: Responsibilities and Functions in the Terminal5.7Safety and Regulations: Standards and Protocols5.8Information Systems and Technologies: Use of Software and Management Tools5.9Case Analysis: Study of Successful Terminals5.10Current Challenges and Future Trends in Terminal Operation
6.1Introduction to Terminal Planning: Fundamentals and Objectives6.2Terminal Layout and Design: Optimising Space and Flows6.3Operational Planning: Workflows and Key Processes6.4Resource Management: Equipment, Staff and Systems6.5Capacity Planning: Estimating and Adjusting for Demand6.6Vessel Scheduling, Stowage Planning and Cargo Handling6.7Safety Management and Risk Prevention6.8Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and Efficiency Measurement6.9Technology in Terminals: Management Systems and Automation6.10Case Studies: Planning and Execution in Real Terminals
7.1Defining and Measuring Terminal Productivity7.2Quay Productivity: Gross and Net Crane Rates, Berth Utilisation7.3Yard Productivity: Stacking Density, Re-handles and Equipment Moves7.4Gate and Landside Productivity: Truck Turnaround and Appointment Systems7.5Rail and Intermodal Operations: Productivity and Interfaces7.6Technologies for Productivity: Automation and Digitalisation7.7Safety and Security as Productivity Enablers (ISPS, ISO 45001)7.8Regulatory Framework: Maritime and Customs Legislation7.9Continuous Improvement of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)7.10Case Studies: Productivity Analysis of Successful Terminals
8.1Cost and Profitability Analysis in Terminal Operations8.2Pricing Strategies and Revenue Maximisation8.3Financial and Budget Management in Terminals8.4Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and Performance Evaluation8.5Optimising Operating Costs and Reducing Expenditure8.6Profitability of Specialised and Value-Added Services (Reefers, Dangerous Goods, Project Cargo)8.7Financial Risk Management and Hedging Strategies8.8Investment Analysis and Return on Investment (ROI)8.9Regulatory and Financial Compliance8.10Case Studies: Profitability Analysis in Specific Terminals
9.1Introduction to Container Terminals: Definition, Functions and Types.9.2Structure and Components: Quays, Yards, Cranes and Equipment.9.3Container Flow: Gate-In and Gate-Out Processes.9.4Basic Operations: Loading, Discharge and Storage.9.5Regulations: Safety, Security and Environment.9.6Vessel Types: Characteristics and Requirements.9.7Layout and Design: Key Factors for Efficiency.9.8Technologies: Terminal Operating Systems.9.9Performance Indicators (KPIs): Measuring Productivity.9.10Examples of Terminals: Case Studies and Best Practice.
1.1Integrated Planning in Container Terminals1.2Workflows and Processes in Terminals1.3Optimising Container Movements1.4Terminal Operating Systems (TOS)1.5Bottleneck Analysis and Solutions1.6Design of Efficient Stacking and Storage1.7Management of Equipment and Resources in Terminals1.8Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in Operations1.9Continuous Improvement and Process Optimisation1.10Case Study: Analysis of Real Terminals
How you'll learn
- Hands-on methodology: learn-by-simulating, operational reviews, root-cause analysis, KPI-based evidence.
- Software (subject to licences/partners): Navis N4 (TOS), AnyLogic, FlexSim/Simio, Python (pandas/SciPy/OR-Tools), SQL, Power BI, Excel/VBA, yard and vessel planning tools and GIS for port layout analysis.
- SEIUM labs: discrete-event terminal simulator, TOS sandbox, yard and berth planning workstations, real-time KPI dashboards and operational data analysis with historical terminal datasets.
- Standards and compliance: ISPS Code, ISO 6346, ISO 28000, ISO 45001, ISO 14001, GDPR.
Where this takes you
Requirements
- Profile: background in logistics, transport, maritime studies, engineering, business administration or related fields; practical experience in port or terminal operations is valued.
- Documentation: up-to-date CV, academic record, statement of purpose, examples of professional projects or reports (optional).
- Process: application → technical assessment of profile and experience → interview → review of practical cases → final decision → enrolment.
- Fees:
- Single payment: 10% discount.
- Payment in 3 instalments: no fees; 30% on enrolment + 2 equal monthly payments of 35% each.
- Monthly payment: available with a 7% surcharge on the total; reviewed annually.
- Scholarships: based on academic merit, financial circumstances and the promotion of inclusion; agreements with companies in the sector for partial or full scholarships.
Ready to start?
Send your application today. Our admissions team replies within 72 hours with your study plan and funding options.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, we offer an international certificate.
Yes: simulation models, real operational data, applied simulations, professional TOS environments and real case studies.
It is not compulsory. We offer foundation tracks and tutoring.
Absolutely. It covers automated stacking cranes (ASC), AGV and automated horizontal transport, remote-controlled equipment and terminal system integration (TOS, equipment control systems, gate OCR).
It is recommended. There are also internal challenges and consortia.
Yes. Online/hybrid format with scheduled labs and visa support (see “Visa & residence”).
Related programmes
Ethics in Surveillance UAVs Course
Online 300 h course in ethics for surveillance UAVs. 6 modules covering Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/947 (UAS operations), Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/945 (UAS systems) and QGroundControl.…
Passenger Terminal Design Course
The Passenger Terminal Design Course explores the comprehensive planning and architectural design of airport terminals, focusing on passenger flow optimization, operational efficiency, and sustainability. It addresses…
IMO Regulations Course for EEXI and CII
Online course of 300 h in IMO regulations for EEXI and CII. 6 modules covering MARPOL Annex VI Chapter 4 Regulations on energy efficiency for ships,…
More in Civil, Rail & Smart Cities
All Civil, Rail & Smart Cities programmes → · How to apply · Fees & financing · Scholarships