Estimated time of arrival (ETA) is the time that is anticipated for a transportation system to arrive at its destination, also known as the expected time of arrival. This phrase may be employed in a variety of contexts. It is used to inform passengers how much longer the trip or journey will be before reaching a specific location. When it comes to the delivery of products, it is utilized to let the recipient know when their item(s) should arrive at the designated location.
Multiple factors are taken into account when computing the ETAs. These include, among others:
- The distance between the starting point and the final destination
- The vessel's average speed; the number of ports visited
- The climate and weather
- The time needed to refuel; port traffic and congestion.
The following formula can be used to define the anticipated arrival time while accounting for the relevant factors:
Estimated time of departure + Estimated time in transit = Estimated time of arrival (ETA)