An Analysis of Container Transportation Multiplex Networks from the Perspective of Shipping Company

Shipping companies play a crucial role in coordinating container transportation, as their decisions about shipping routes and ports have a direct impact on the development of the container network. Hence, understanding the similarities and distinctions across ship companies is crucial for gaining insight into the container shipping market. This study uses a multiplex network method to provide insight into identifying various transportation patterns and significant ports. The model is enhanced with a set of structural indices, together with a novel overlap measure that assesses the distinct function of a particular port across several layers of ship companies. The entire methodology is applied and tested using AIS data from the top 10 shipping companies, which facilitates the creation of a multiplex network and the calculation of structural metrics. The experiments conducted on the global maritime transportation network aim to identify crucial ports and emphasize notable variations at both the regional and trade flow levels. This study enhances the existing knowledge in the field of transport geography and uncovers the route organization strategies employed by shipping companies. These findings can offer valuable insights for port managers when making decisions.