The Impact of Digitalization and Method of Container Transshipment on Intermodal Freight Transport

In this research, we provide a literature review in which experts identify the prerequisites for modal shift and then examine the impact of container handling technology on intermodal freight transport. As a result of technological advances, robotization and the application of Industry 4.0 methods in container handling can have a significant impact on continental rail-road intermodal freight transport, creating opportunities for more efficient operation of rail infrastructure. The presented freight transport model allows the use of advanced IT solutions (web and mobile applications) for modal shift. An example will be used to illustrate the impact that competitive intermodal freight transport can have on terminal construction practices and freight train movements. Using publicly available data, we examine heavy goods vehicle freight traffic on some major European transport routes and provide an estimate of the impact of modal shift. Containers travelling by train are passengers like people with different destinations. Accordingly, they use different embarkation and disembarkation points, which the technology has to take into account. Modern container management and the rail-road intermodal freight transport that underpins it can be a prerequisite for sustainable freight transport, which means a significant reduction in CO2 emissions.