Efficiency Evaluation of a Small Container Terminal with Perpendicular Yard Layout Using Shuttle Carriers

Abstract

Productivity is an extremely important factor in the competitiveness of a container terminal. Productivity itself is largely influenced by the handling mechanisation, the main task of which is to serve the quay cranes on one side and the yard cranes on the other. One of the most effective types of mechanisation in this segment is shuttle carriers, which are used primarily in the larger terminals. The objective of this study was to determine if they can also be used effectively in smaller container terminals with different yard layouts. Therefore, this study shows the impact of the selected layout and handling mechanisation on terminal productivity. The focus is on the berth productivity, as it has the greatest impact on the handling of the vessel in the port. To this end, a discrete-event simulation modelling approach was used in a container terminal of small capacity. The performed simulations included all operations between berth and yard, focusing on the correct allocation of shuttle carriers to ensure optimal results on the sea side of the terminal. The result showed that the use of shuttle carriers brings a substantial performance effect to the container terminal and also has a different effect considering different terminal layouts in terminals with an annual throughput not exceeding 1 million TEU.