Factors influencing ship detentions: Pre- and post-pandemic analysis

Abstract

Extensive research has examined the determinants of ship detentions during port state control inspections. This study integrates market factors into the analysis of ship deficiencies and detention duration for the first time. To analyze the factors affecting the number of deficiencies and detention duration, a comprehensive system of indicators incorporating intrinsic attributes (e.g., ship age, flag state, gross tonnage, and ship type) and extrinsic factors (e.g., flag state and recognized organizations' performance level, historical inspections, and detentions of port states) was established. Employing statistical analysis, we formulated four generalized linear models to assess the temporal variations in these factors across the pre- and post-pandemic periods. Our results indicate that inspection authorities (port states) consistently influence detentions across various ship categories, and the extent of reported ship deficiencies and detention duration varies with the enforcement rigor of port states. Notably, the shipping market's impact is most evident in bulk carriers and oil tankers, with the pandemic markedly influencing port state inspections. In the post-pandemic era, the niche shipping market has seen a decline in the impact of detention duration on bulk carriers and tankers, and in the number of deficiencies on container ships. China and Russia have increased inspections of bulk carriers and oil tankers, while the impact of Australia and Japan on bulk carriers and container ships has weakened. This research not only explores the association between the shipping market and ship detentions for the first time but also contrasts the detention landscape pre- and post-pandemic, offering insights for shipping companies and port authorities to enhance ship operational safety.