Fundamentals of Container Shipping

Introduction

The training course “Fundamentals of Container Shipping”, offered in cooperation with MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company – the largest shipping company in the world, is a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental principles, concepts and operations underpinning international container shipping and supply chain management. Through a carefully designed three-month Course, participants will acquire theoretical and practical knowledge covering every aspect of the shipping industry – from the origins and evolution of container shipping to its economic dimension, legislation and compliance, as well as the current trends and technological developments shaping its future.

The training combines synchronous and asynchronous teaching and includes hands-on practice and instruction in Microsoft tools (Excel, Outlook, Teams), strengthening participants’ digital skills and preparing them for the demanding international working environment. The Course is delivered entirely in English language, so as to familiarise trainees with international shipping terminology and professional vocabulary.

Course Structure and Content
The Course consists of six Teaching Units (208 hours in total), offering comprehensive coverage of container shipping and the supply chain:

1. Fundamentals of Container Shipping: Principles, Evolution, and TradeDynamics
2. Container Ships and Equipment: Characteristics, Terminology, and Cargo Handling
3. Container Logistics and Supply Chain: Documentation, Port Management, and Transport Networks
4. Container Shipping Economics: Costs, Revenue, and Freight Rate Structures
5. Regulations, Compliance, and the Future of Container Shipping
6. Microsoft Office Tools

Aim of the Course
The objective of the Course is to offer a holistic understanding of the container shipping industry, combining the maritime, economic, technical and technological dimensions of the subject. Participants will gain an in-depth understanding of how the global maritime transport market works and how shipping is linked to supply chains, logistics and the international economy, while also strengthening their professional and digital skills.

A Unique Professional Opportunity
The partnership with MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company gives participants meaningful exposure to the operations of the world’s leading shipping company, enabling them to see at first hand how an international shipping organisation works. On successful completion of the Course, participants are guaranteed an interview with MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company for entry-level positions, gaining a strong professional head start and opening the way to a career with the largest shipping company in the world. The Course thus acts as a bridge connecting graduates with the global shipping and trade sector, giving them a real competitive advantage in the job market.

Scientific Director

Vasileios-Christos Naoum,

Associate Professor, Department of Maritime Studies, University of Piraeus

Target Audience

The Course is aimed at students, graduates and professionals who work, or wish to work, in the fields of shipping, supply chain, international transport, trade and financial management. In particular, it is aimed at executives of shipping and trading companies, employees of port authorities, logistics providers, transport and supply chain management consultants, as well as students and graduates in related fields who wish to acquire specialised knowledge and skills. The Course is suitable both for those with relevant professional experience who wish to update or broaden their knowledge, and for those seeking to enter this sector, enhancing their employability in a competitive international environment.

Admission Requirements

Participants must have:

Basic computer skills
Internet access
A personal email account

Delivery Method

The Course is delivered entirely by distance learning, using a dedicated e-learning platform. It combines synchronous (61 hours) and asynchronous (147 hours) distance learning.

During the synchronous lectures, an attendance register is kept and Educational Material is provided covering all the Thematic Units of the Course, which includes the following:

1. Notes for each Unit 2. Lecture slides 3. Case studies 4. Indicative bibliography related to the content of each Unit 5. References to Reports and Legislative Texts 6. References to Public (open) Data 7. Links to freely accessible online articles and books

Type of Certificate

Trainees who successfully complete the Course are awarded a Training Certificate by KEDIVIM of the University of Piraeus, together with a Supplementary Annex. If successful completion of the Course is not possible owing to discontinuation of studies or failure in the examinations, the trainee is awarded a Certificate of Attendance by KEDIVIM of the University.

See a sample of the certificate awarded here

Units

Teaching/Thematic Unit 1: Fundamentals of Container Shipping: Principles, Evolution, and Trade Dynamics

Teaching/Thematic Unit 2: Container Ships and Equipment: Characteristics, Terminology, and Cargo Handling

Teaching/Thematic Unit 3: Container Logistics and Supply Chain: Operations, Port Management, and Transport Networks

Teaching/Thematic Unit 4: Container Shipping Economics: Costs, Revenue, and Freight Rate Structures

Teaching/Thematic Unit 5: Regulations, Compliance, and the Future of Container Shipping

Teaching/Thematic Unit 6: Microsoft Office Tools (Excel, Outlook, Teams)

Learning Outcomes

1In terms of knowledge:

Upon successful completion of the Course, participants will have:

Specialised knowledge of the structure, operation and evolution of container shipping in the context of the global economy and international trade. Understanding of the technical terminology, the types of vessels and containers, and the operational characteristics of the equipment used in maritime and land transport. Knowledge of the basic concepts of the supply chain, transhipment systems, international commercial terms (Incoterms) and transport documentation (e.g. bills of lading). A fundamental understanding of the economic parameters governing the shipping market, including freight-rate formation mechanisms, supply and demand, and pricing strategies. Awareness of the applicable regulatory, legal and institutional framework (e.g. IMO, FMC, European legislation), as well as current sustainability and digitalisation trends in the shipping sector.

2In terms of skills:

Participants will be able to:

Apply knowledge to understand and assess real-world situations in shipping and logistics. Analyse, compare and interpret data on routes, ports, equipment and transport operations. Use professional digital tools (Microsoft Excel, Outlook, Teams) proficiently to support administrative, organisational and analytical functions in shipping and logistics. Manage documents, bills of lading and other documentation related to maritime transport accurately and consistently. Identify regulatory and legal requirements and propose compliance practices in an international shipping environment.

3In terms of competences:

Upon completion of the Course, participants will be able to:

Act with professional responsibility in an interconnected and globalised logistics and shipping environment. Collaborate effectively in cross-functional teams, managing projects that involve logistics flows and shipping operations. Tackle complex problems relating to operational optimisation and regulatory compliance, applying appropriate methodologies and critical thinking. Actively keep up with developments in technology, the market and regulatory policy, adapting their strategy and practices to current requirements. Work with a commitment to sustainability, safety and ethics, recognising the wider social and environmental impact of transport activities.

Assessment

The learning outcomes of each Unit are assessed through an online examination. The examination takes the form of a 15-question multiple-choice quiz and is accessible on specific dates. Performance is graded on a percentage scale with a maximum of 100%, and an overall score above 80% is required for successful completion of the Course.

Discount Policy

A discount is available:

5% in the case of registration of two (2) participants from the same company.
10% in the case of registration of three (3) or more participants from the same company.
20% for current students of undergraduate programmes of the University of Piraeus.

Payment of Fees

Fees are payable in a single payment or in 2 equal instalments of €275.00 each into the Special Account for Research Funds (ELKE) of the University of Piraeus (1st instalment upon registration, 2nd instalment no later than one month after the start date of the Course).

Failure to pay any instalment will result in the automatic exclusion of the candidate from the remainder of the Course, the examinations and the award of the certificate. Fees are non-refundable once classes have started.

Duration:	2 Months / 208 Hours
ECTS:	8
Start Date:	20/04/2026
Field of Study:	Shipping
Language:	English
Scientific Director:	Naoum Vasileios-Christos

Educational Material

(+30) 210 414 2481, 2106, 2025

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