From Assumptions to Accuracy: Why Actual Cargo Data and Primary Data Matter
From Assumptions to Accuracy: Why Actual Cargo Data and Primary Data Matter
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In maritime logistics, a simple question can reveal a major gap: Are your emissions based on real data – or assumptions?
Many companies still use modeled data to estimate emissions, relying on averages for cargo loads, distances, and fuel consumption. But these models often overlook key factors like capacity utilization – for example, when ships sail partially loaded due to trade imbalances or empty container repositioning. The result? Emissions that appear efficient on paper but misrepresent reality.
Inaccurate data undermines your emissions baseline, making it harder to track progress, meet targets, and communicate reliably with regulators and customers.
The Solution: Primary Data
Primary data, as defined by ISO 14083, means measured or directly calculated emissions from actual operations — such as real fuel consumption reported by carriers. In maritime, this is already the standard, not a future ambition.
Using primary data enables fair comparisons, supports voluntary and regulatory reporting without double-counting, and reflects real-world performance.
Clean Cargo & Accurate Scope 3 Reporting
Clean Cargo, an initiative by Smart Freight Centre, offers a standardized method for ocean carriers to report emissions based on actual fuel use. This data powers the most accurate Scope 3 emissions accounting for ocean freight and aligns with:
Voluntary climate action frameworks, including Market-Based Measures, Book and Claim and Green Procurement.
Why It Matters
Primary data reduces uncertainty, supports consistent reporting across the supply chain, and builds trust in climate disclosures. As regulations tighten, companies relying on assumptions risk falling behind.
Smart Freight Centre is driving the maritime sector’s transition to real, standardized emissions data — because accuracy is the foundation of credible climate action.
Smart Freight Centre Members participating in Clean Cargo gain access to reporting carriers’ emissions performance information. Reach out to us at info@smartfreightcentre.org for more information.
Watch the full video and enroll in our courses below to learn more.
