Planning Problems in Intermodal Freight Transport ...

Quantitative models proposed in literature to solve these problems are presented. Most models
address a single type of material handling equipment. The authors conclude that joint
optimization of several material handling equipment is a topic for future research.
Furthermore, it is necessary to extend models from simple cases to more realistic situations.
A second study integrates strategic and tactical planning decisions of a network
operator. Jourquin et al. [71] combine a network model with GIS software to support strategic
decisions of a network operator. A virtual network is constructed in which all successive
operations involved in multi-modal transport are broken down in a systematic way and a
detailed analysis of all costs is included. The generalised costs are minimised according to the
shortest path algorithm. By simulation with different parameter values, the software can
provide performance measures such as tons per km, total distance, total cost, duration and
capacity utilisation of nodes and links. At a tactical level the model is used to derive the
impact of different types of consolidation networks on the distribution of flows over the
available infrastructure and modalities.
Table 3 shows the position of both papers.
Table 3. Multiple decision levels
Decision maker Time horizon
Strategic Tactical Operational
Drayage operator
Terminal operator Vis and de Koster (2003)
Network operator Jourquin et al. (1999)
Intermodal operator