MOL SETS UP INTERNET PORT COST SETTLEMENT

MOL SETS UP INTERNET PORT COST SETTLEMENT    Mitsui O.S.K.Lines will introduce a new Internet-based system for the settlement of port charges for tramp vessels in March 2002.
   The system, called “molagent.com,” will ensure faster, more centralized control of settlements, the Japanese shipping group said. MOL believes that the new system will enable port charges to be settled more quickly, while reducing workloads for the company and its agents.
   MOL will open a Web site exclusively for the new system. After determining vessel operating schedules, MOL and its agents will use the site to handle the entire process of port charge settlement.
   Since tramp and specialized vessels do not operate on fixed schedules, it is impractical and costly to create a worldwide network like that used for containerships, which make regularly scheduled port calls, the Japanese group said. The current settlement procedure relies on separate settlement statements prepared by each agent, and takes several months to finalize.