Synchromodality in the Physical Internet \u2013 dual sourcing and real-time switching between transport modes

Nina Lemmens,Joren Gijsbrechts,Robert Boute

doi:10.1186/s12544-019-0357-5

Nina Lemmens, Joren Gijsbrechts + Show 1 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1186/s12544-019-0357-5

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Abstract

Synchromodality, also referred to as “synchronized intermodality”, employs multiple transport modes in a flexible, dynamic way in order to induce a modal shift towards more environmentally friendly transport modes like rail or inland waterways, without compromising on responsiveness and quality of service. It is characterized by the synchronized parallel usage of different transport modes and/or the ability to switch freely between transport modes at particular times while a consignment is in transit. We present a decision rule that can integrate both the parallel usage, as well as real-time switching of transport modes, either in combination or separately. It takes into account real-time stock levels and service requirements of the shipper. The policy first determines at the source which volumes will be shipped using each mode of transport, and subsequently depicts whether it should switch modes at an intermediate terminal. Using a simulation study we demonstrate how our synchromodal transport policy can induce a modal shift towards low carbon transport modes.

Highlights

Freight transport in the future will be much different from today
4 Performance evaluation We evaluate the performance of our synchromodal policy on the logistics costs and corresponding modal shift by means of a simulation experiment
5 Conclusions In this paper we propose a policy that can be used to implement the concept of synchromodal freight transport

Summary

Introduction

Freight transport in the future will be much different from today. Rather than being a matter of choice, it has become a necessity. The policy operates with two base-stock levels to decide at the source how to split the freight order to the different modes of transport, and uses two threshold values to decide along the route whether a shipment should switch transport modes at an intermediate terminal.

Results

Conclusion