Port Logistics and Hinterland Development

Abstract

In recent years, the inland component of the port system has become a key factor in shaping performance and competitive strategies of seaports. Physical and capacity constraints at berths, along with the trend of optimization and standardization of quayside operations, suggest that more focus must be placed on land‐interface logistics operations. On the one hand, the increase in trade volumes and the emergence of new distribution patterns mean that the demand on port seashore infrastructure (and the immediate land behind it) is nearing capacity, hence the need to expand landwise to accommodate future volume growth and logistics‐driven capacity requirements. On the other hand, reported inefficiencies in ports indicate that landside logistics operations are far behind their optimal efficiency, with most observed malfunctions (unproductive moves, congestions, delays, etc.) taking place at inland and intermodal port interfaces.

Strategic port classification: International clustering‐based approach for decision‐making optimization

“…In recent years, the inland component of the port system has become a key factor in shaping performance and competitive strategies of seaports. But physical and capacity constraints at berths, along with the trend of optimization and standardization of quayside operations, suggest that more focus must be placed on land‐interface logistics operations (Bichou, 2018). A transportation strategy, to be effective in supply chain management, is not playing one carrier off against another.…”

“…In the operational and strategic orientations in today's highly competitive market place, port management teams are required to redefine their core businesses and competencies so as to accommodate different pattern arrangements of modern trading and logistics systems. The integration of inland networks could constitute an additional core mission for ports, but this requires an appropriate strategy directed towards inland transport and logistics providers (Bichou, 2018). Ports are the most crucial element in the maritime and trade transportation networks worldwide.…”