Overview
The lack of interaction between communication systems in intermodal freight corridors hampers the demanded flexibility, reliability and cost effectiveness of the transport services. For freight distribution through intermodal transport chains, efficiency can be improved by issuing a single set of shipment information that is suitable for all involved transport modes, as well as for shippers and customers. The target is a simplified and transparent logistic system based on Internet information technology.
ITESIC aimed to develop and demonstrate an integrated procedure for seamless handling of intermodal freight transport in short and medium distance corridors by creating a working environment capable of covering the requirements of the logistic planners and operators.
The main objectives of ITESIC have been:
- to apply information technology and transport telematics to create an Extranet connected to the existing EDI and information systems within transport corridors;
- to transfer the impact of advanced information technologies to the operating environment, and to re-engineer the processes needed to meet the requirements of the clients;
- to maintain a unified user interface, using common standards in order to facilitate harmonisation at a European level.
Funding
Results
ITESIC has:
- established the prototype of a centralised, web-based communication node, that allows the handling of inhomogeneous information from various sources in a complex shipment process;
- connected and integrated several transport modes (i.e. road, railway and waterborne), logistic providers, forwarders, agents and depots into a main 'umbrella' module, successfully improving information flow, trackability and reliability of short to medium distance shipments;
- successfully demonstrated and customised the Internet based concept with the players and users in two existing medium-haul corridors:
- Valencia - Madrid, comprising a maritime leg with incoming and outgoing cargo to the port of Valencia, a connection to the railway services to and from Madrid, and road transport to and from the Madrid terminal to final destinations, and
- Marseilles - Lyon, comprising a maritime leg to and from the port of Marseilles, a connection with inland waterway services, and road transport to and from the Lyon station to final destinations;
- validated the benefits of the concept using a 'Virtual Intermodal Chain Simulator'.
Policy implications
The demonstration phase of ITESIC has confirmed the idea of a centralised information and communication node for regional intermodal transport corridors. Because a web-based communication interface eliminates the need for direct connection of numerous disparate systems, the concept will be applicable and adaptable to other intermodal transport corridors across Europe. Demonstration at further sites is now required.