Market research in the maritime world means gathering, analyzing, and interpreting data about shipping trends, port performance, freight rates, fuel costs, technological shifts, and global trade routes.
It helps companies understand where to invest, how to adapt, and what’s coming next – turning uncertainty into insight.
• Shipping analysts – study vessel movement, supply-demand trends
• Trade economists – analyze global flows and policy impact
• Consulting firms – offer strategic studies and benchmarking
• Bunker analysts – forecast fuel price and supply patterns
• Specialized platforms – like Clarksons, Drewry, Xeneta, VesselsValue
• Port authorities and logistics groups – track regional data
• In-house research teams – for larger operators and banks
• Growth of real-time data platforms (AIS, satellite, port trackers)
• AI and predictive analytics entering decision-making
• A rising demand for sustainability and decarbonization data
• Price transparency tools for shippers
• Open-access data and cross-sector collaboration
Good decisions rely on good information.
Maritime market research:
In a sea of change, research is your radar.
Clarksons’ Shipping Intelligence Network has data on over 180,000 vessels, 3,000 ports, and 100,000+ companies – a goldmine of insights for operators, investors, and policymakers.
As technology advances, how can maritime market research stay transparent and accessible – not just a luxury for big players?
