BTS Home > Programs > Statistical Policy and Research > Source and Accuracy Compendium

Port Readiness Reports

Data Collection

Methods - Data consists of the responses received from representatives of the port authorities of ports designated by the Department of Defense as strategic ports. Letters of inquiry are specifically addressed to senior port representatives with the most knowledge of the National Shipping Authority Port Planning Order (NSPO) issued by the Maritime Administration (MARAD).

Schedule - Responses are requested on a monthly basis and are due within one week of receipt of MARAD’s request.

Response Rates - 100 % of the strategic ports respond. Office of Ports and Domestic Shipping maintains continuing dialog between reports with respondents.

Nonsampling Errors

Nonsampling error is a broad category that includes all error in the data not attributable to sampling error. Describe what is known about nonsampling error in these data. Types of nonsampling error are:

Nonresponse Error - All ports with NSPOs are required to respond.

Response/ Measurement Error - As mentioned above, letters are sent to individuals with the most knowledge of the NSPO. However, actual respondent can be that individual’s designee. Contact list changes month-to-month. Continuous contact with knowledgeable individuals at the port reduces possibility of response error.

MARAD regional office personnel conduct semi-annual assessments of port readiness. Personnel are given instructions on how to complete the Assessment Report. Assessment is done on-site and is usually conducted with various port representatives, such as members of the Port Readiness Committee, in attendance.

Once assessments are received from the regions, they are sent to the Military Traffic Management Command (MTMC) for evaluation. MARAD uses MTMC comments on the assessments to evaluate a port’s overall state of readiness.

MARAD reaches an overall measure of the port’s readiness using the assessment reports, monthly readiness reports and MTMC comments. There is concern that one overall standard measure should be developed for this activity because current methods may lead to subjective findings.

Coding/ Recording Error - Currently, data is not maintained electronically. The MARAD office is in the process of developing an electronic spreadsheet accessible by DOD containing pertinent information on the status of the strategic ports. Error may become a factor later.

Noncoverage Error - DOD notifies MARAD of the names of the strategic ports and the required facilities to meet its national defense requirements at these ports. Noncoverage error is not a factor. All strategic ports are currently under NSPOs.