Generative AI and Machine Learning Collaboration for Container Dwell Time Prediction via Data Standardization

TL;DR

This paper introduces a collaborative framework combining generative AI and machine learning to standardize unstructured container data, significantly improving dwell time prediction accuracy and operational efficiency in container terminals.

Contribution

It presents a novel approach integrating Gen AI for data standardization to enhance ICDT prediction models in port logistics.

Findings

Achieved 13.88% improvement in mean absolute error for dwell time prediction.

Reduced container relocations by up to 14.68% using improved predictions.

Validated the effectiveness of Gen AI in port logistics operations.

Abstract

Import container dwell time (ICDT) prediction is a key task for improving productivity in container terminals, as accurate predictions enable the reduction of container re-handling operations by yard cranes. Achieving this objective requires accurately predicting the dwell time of individual containers. However, the primary determinants of dwell time-owner information and cargo information-are recorded as unstructured text, which limits their effective use in machine learning models. This study addresses this limitation by proposing a collaborative framework that integrates generative artificial intelligence (Gen AI) with machine learning. The proposed framework employs Gen AI to standardize unstructured information into standard international codes, with dynamic re-prediction triggered by electronic data interchange state updates, enabling the machine learning model to predict ICDT accurately. Extensive experiments conducted on real container terminal data demonstrate that the proposed methodology achieves a 13.88% improvement in mean absolute error compared to conventional models that do not utilize standardized information. Furthermore, applying the improved predictions to container stacking strategies achieves up to 14.68% reduction in the number of relocations, thereby empirically validating the potential of Gen AI to enhance productivity in container terminal operations. Overall, this study provides both technical and methodological insights into the adoption of Gen AI in port logistics and its effectiveness.