ZeroNorth has launched Propel, a new agentic AI platform designed to automate repetitive tasks in daily shipping operations, with Cargill, Ultrabulk and CMB.TECH as launch partners. The platform aims to free up operators to focus on decisions that require human judgment as shipping companies face increasingly complex operating conditions.
Platform targets daily shipping operations
Shipping companies are dealing with geopolitical disruption, regulatory changes and volatile fuel prices. Operators must coordinate decisions across several vessels and different systems, and ZeroNorth said better coordination can save both time and fuel across a fleet.
Propel uses AI agents that can carry out specific tasks rather than just providing information or recommendations. The technology responds to changing conditions while working within limits set by operators.
For operations teams unfamiliar with agentic AI, the platform represents a shift from passive analytics to active execution of routine tasks. This aligns with the growing need for AI for Operations that goes beyond dashboards and alerts.
Voyage optimisation is first step
Propel's first AI agent focuses on voyage optimisation. It can create a voyage plan, communicate with the vessel's master, receive feedback, update the plan and respond when conditions change. The operator remains involved throughout the process.
ZeroNorth said this approach can reduce hours of manual coordination for operations teams and help operators respond faster when new voyage opportunities emerge. The voyage optimisation agent has already been used by the company's Professional Services team for three months. Cargill, Ultrabulk and CMA CGM will receive early access to the technology.
Expansion plans
ZeroNorth will introduce more AI agents over time and test each new capability with its partners under real operating conditions. Propel is expected to eventually cover voyage, vessel and fuel workflows. It will continuously monitor operations and handle tasks within limits defined by operators.
"Our ambition with Propel is to help change the way shipping works by changing what technology can do inside maritime operations," said Søren Andersen, CEO of ZeroNorth. "There is immense potential to move towards operations that are more connected, continuous and precise, where technology takes on more of the coordination work and people can focus their judgement where it creates the greatest value."
Wider commercial availability is expected later in 2026.
"We're proud to continue working with our long-standing partners at ZeroNorth to explore technologies that can modernise shipping, improve operational efficiency and help move the industry forward," said James Lewis, Vice President Global Operations at Cargill Ocean Transportation.
"At Ultrabulk, we have seen that technology delivers when it is grounded in real operations. The potential for AI that can take action - not just surface insights - is significant," said Oskar Fabricius, CFO at Ultrabulk. "As a partner since ZeroNorth's earliest days, we are glad to be at the front of shaping what that looks like in practice."
Why this matters for operations professionals
For fleet operators and logistics teams, Propel suggests that AI tools are moving beyond recommendations into direct task execution. If the platform performs as described, operations staff may need to shift from coordinating routine voyage plan updates manually to monitoring an for exceptions and making judgment calls. And as the platform expands beyond voyage optimisation, those in vessel and fuel positions will want to review how agent boundaries are set within their specific workflows.
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