Shipping Guides Ltd

Findaport.com is a globally recognised online port database used by shipping companies, marine services, and maritime professionals worldwide. Designed to make complex port data easy to access, search and use, the platform has helped thousands of businesses navigate the operational challenges of international shipping.

Behind the scenes, Findaport.com has been one of Averma’s longest-running development projects. We’ve worked on it continuously since 2004; starting with the original build and branding for Shipping Guides Ltd, and continuing today under Lloyd’s Register, following their acquisition of OneOcean and Shipping Guides.

The Start of a 20-Year Collaboration

In 2004, Shipping Guides Ltd; publishers of the authoritative Guide to Port Entry; approached Averma with a clear goal: to move their industry-respected port data into a digital platform that could be updated in real time and used anywhere in the world. At the time, the company was based in Reigate, Surrey, just a short distance from our main hub in Horley.

We developed Findaport.com from the ground up using Ruby on Rails, creating a fully bespoke system designed to handle complex datasets while remaining fast and easy to use. The result was a dynamic online database that made it possible to search and compare ports, download detailed information, and access intelligence that had previously only existed in printed form.

We also led on the original branding and graphic design for the Findaport platform; creating the visual identity, user interface and marketing materials, all with a strong focus on clarity, trust and ease of use.

Continued Development

Since launch, Findaport.com has gone through many rounds of evolution but Averma has remained the digital partner throughout. We’ve continued to handle development, design and ongoing platform support, working closely with editorial teams and maritime specialists to maintain and enhance the system as the industry has evolved.

From back-end data architecture to search functionality to user experience, we’ve always maintained a focus on making the platform stronger, faster and easier to use.

Updates have included:

• New subscription models and paywall functionality
• Enhanced data export tools
• Visual redesigns to match modern standards
• Admin tools for editorial teams
• Optimisation improvements and faster page performance

Through Acquisition and Growth

In 2021, OneOcean acquired Shipping Guides Ltd, integrating Findaport.com into a larger suite of maritime software solutions. Then in 2022, Lloyd’s Register, one of the world’s most established names in engineering and maritime services, acquired OneOcean as part of its broader strategy to offer digital tools to the global maritime sector.

Despite these changes, the Findaport.com platform has continued uninterrupted and we’ve continued to support its development and upkeep. Today, Findaport.com continues to serve thousands of users worldwide, with Averma still providing design, development and technical support as the platform continues to grow.

Long-Term Thinking

What began as a custom build in 2004 is now a globally-used digital service that’s been running for over two decades. At every stage, we’ve delivered what’s needed to keep it working: building, maintaining and evolving a complex system that supports real-world business operations in the shipping industry.

For over 20 years, Averma has supported companies large and small with practical digital development, branding and online marketing services. Our main hub is in Horley, Surrey, with additional locations in Peckham and Hampstead, London, working with clients locally, nationally and internationally.

If you’re looking for a digital partner who understands long-term delivery and cares about your business goals as much as you do, we’d be happy to talk.