ABS unveils container route tool

The digital platform has been developed to give operators greater flexibility when planning voyages as shipping lines contend with changing port rotations, blank sailings, evolving stowage plans and geopolitical disruptions that require rapid adjustments to cargo loading strategies.

“Containership operators need practical tools that help them respond quickly to changing operating conditions without compromising safety,” said Dr Christina Wang, ABS vice president, Engineering Applications.

“Eagle CRoute helps operators evaluate route-specific loading options and apply the flexibility available through ABS lashing notations.”

Eagle CRoute enables operators to calculate lashing reduction factors for specific routes, allowing onboard lashing force assessments to be tailored to individual voyage conditions rather than relying on broader assumptions. The tool supports the application of ABS lashing notations while maintaining safety requirements.

The functionality available depends on a vessel’s lashing notation. For ships classed with the CLP-V notation, Eagle CRoute calculates reduction factors covering the entire voyage. Vessels with the CLP-V(PARR) notation can access more detailed assessments, including split-route reduction factors between individual ports and seasonal calculations that account for variations in operating conditions throughout the year.

The platform also supports short-voyage calculations for trips lasting less than 72 hours between two ports. These assessments incorporate weather and wave forecast information to provide voyage-specific reduction factors, helping operators make informed loading decisions for shorter routes.

“The combination of route splitting, seasonal adjustment and short-voyage calculation offers a new level of flexibility for container operators,” said Christoph Rasewsky, ABS global container sector lead.

“By giving operators a more precise way to apply lashing reduction factors, Eagle CRoute can help unlock loading opportunities while supporting safer and more efficient operations.”