Containerized transportation is widely acknowledged as one of the most efficient and cost-effective modes of freight movement in global supply chains. The adoption of containerization has substantially enhanced the efficiency of loading and unloading operations while streamlining international logistics processes. Furthermore, container-based transport contributes to reduced transit times, lower cargo handling costs, improved shipment security, minimized risk of unauthorized access from origin to destination, and more effective utilization of terminal and yard capacities. In this study, discrete-event simulation (DES) is employed as a robust modeling and analytical tool to simulate container transportation flows among the southern ports of Iran. The primary objective is to develop a statistically validated simulation model capable of accurately representing real-world operational dynamics. Additionally, the study seeks to optimize key operational processes in order to enhance system performance, improve resource utilization, and support data-driven decision-making within the container transport network. The findings demonstrate a significant improvement in system performance after optimization. Specifically, the average container dwell time in the system decreased from approximately 1468 minutes to about 999 minutes, representing an improvement of nearly 32 percent. This reduction reflects enhanced coordination between operational processes, improved resource utilization, and reduced congestion levels within the transport network.

Furthermore, the optimized configuration utilized only about 92.5 percent of the available budget, indicating that performance improvements can be achieved without fully exhausting financial resources. The results highlight the importance of balanced resource allocation rather than simply increasing the number of vessels or equipment. The study also demonstrates the effectiveness of combining simulation and optimization techniques in addressing complex maritime logistics problems. The integrated approach provides decision-makers with a practical tool for evaluating alternative scenarios, understanding system dynamics, and making informed resource allocation decisions.