Some view this shift as wholly positive: maximum efficiency, minimal errors, and faster, data-driven decisions that drive success. Others argue that trust between people, handshake deals, and long-standing networks will continue to define the chartering business. Could both perspectives be valid? Or is artificial intelligence poised to take over your role?

One thing is sure: the question isn’t whether AI is coming, it’s already here. In many industries, it’s playing its assigned role with precision, delivering tangible value. In chartering, however, there’s still room for growth. Many processes remain human-led, data is fragmented, and real-time insights are rare. Yet therein lies opportunity: those who embrace AI now stand to gain a decisive competitive edge.

This article explores the strengths of AI, draws key conclusions for your role as a chartering professional, and shows how you can leverage AI to work smarter and achieve greater success. We also examine where AI still meets its limits and unpack the debate around whether it’s a job killer or a powerful ally. So it's going to be really exciting!

AI’s role in other industries: lessons for chartering

Artificial intelligence has become a core component of value creation across sectors. Its role, however, varies widely. Here’s a brief overview.

What unites these applications? AI enhances efficiency, accelerates data-driven decisions and improves early warning systems. In chartering, however, AI adoption remains limited, partly because its role is yet to be clearly defined. That means: untapped potential.

Core strengths of AI

To define AI's potential role in chartering, it is helpful first to understand its cross-industry strengths. Here’s a snapshot:

• Speed
• (Partial) Precision
• Analytical capability
• Predictive power
• Pattern recognition
• Data processing
• Automation
• 24/7 availability
• Scalability

These attributes are turning AI into a competitive differentiator across sectors. In maritime and adjacent industries, AI is already delivering value. Before diving into chartering-specific use cases, here are three examples from related fields:

• Optimised route planning through AI-based weather and current data in shipping
• Dynamic pricing models based on AI-generated insights in freight forwarding
• Automated freight rate analysis in container logistics

Our assessment: Given the flood of information and rising pressure for speed and competitiveness, AI’s role as an “efficiency driver” in chartering holds immense promise. But there are also valid counterarguments we must consider.

Our Conclusion: Those who fail to adopt AI in chartering risk falling behind in terms of speed and efficiency. While challenges remain, the advantages clearly outweigh the drawbacks.

Engaging deeply with this topic is essential for you. At seabo, we support you not only with insights like in this article, but also with targeted AI-driven tools designed to make your work more efficient. And we’re committed to expanding this offering in the future.

Practical tips: Where to start with AI in chartering

To wrap up, here are some actionable tips on how and where to integrate AI into your daily chartering operations. As mentioned, it all begins with defining the role AI should play in your life. First, let’s clarify what AI should and shouldn’t be in your business.

Where AI can already support you in chartering  – and the role it can play

• AI as a relevance filter. Utilise AI to navigate through the information overload. It helps you identify what matters more quickly and provides a stronger foundation for informed decision-making.

• AI as an efficiency driver. Let AI take over repetitive tasks, such as automated extraction and comparison of charter parties, intelligent document checks via NLP, or drafting recap emails, fixture notes, and voyage instructions. Automation frees up time for strategic work. 

• AI as a decision accelerator. AI can prioritise incoming offers, enabling you to respond more quickly to urgent enquiries.

• AI as a data analyst. Gain deep insights into rates, cargoes, vessel availability and routing through AI-powered data analysis.

• AI as a pricing model architect. Leverage AIS data, bunker prices and geopolitical factors to build dynamic pricing models that give you an edge in negotiations.

• AI as an emissions optimiser. Analyse weather, traffic and emissions data in real time to define KPIs like “emissions per tonne-mile”.

• AI as a risk analyst. Detect patterns and anomalies to compare vessel performance, identify potential payment defaults, assess counterparty risks and evaluate operator reliability.

• AI as a matchmaker. Automatically identify suitable vessels for cargoes based on size, location and speed. Save time on spot deals and optimise utilisation.

• AI as an auditing authority. Use AI to support you in compliance topics by reviewing charter parties, addenda and legal clauses. The seabo negotiation tool even flags changes made during the negotiation process. 

• AI as a simulation tool. Run scenario analyses with tools like Competitor Tool or Spotifind. Based on data evaluations, AI highlights potential competitors or available vessels.
   

Just like AI, seabo helps you structure vast amounts of information and set priorities more efficiently. You gain clarity, focus, and unlock new potential for better results.

Our essence: AI is not a replacement for charter professionals. It’s a powerful support system that opens upnew opportunities. It helps you differentiate yourself in the market. The key is to define the boundaries: what AI should handle, and what remains in your hands. You stay in control, with better tools to make informed decisions. You gain time to focus on what truly matters in your business: nurturing relationships, negotiating smartly and building trust.

Our Tip: Don’t just see AI as a tool. Treat it as a strategic partner embedded in your data, processes and networks. The real opportunity lies in gaining early experience and securing competitive advantages.