ABSTRACT
This chapter analyzes existing inland port operations and port planning and predicts future development trends. Inland port operations are classified by the type and method of cargo handling, to provide transportation and distribution planners sufficient information to begin the process. A review of concepts considered for future inland port development is also provided.
Inland ports are cargo handling sites remotely located from traditional air, land, and coastal transportation infrastructure. Like most traditional ports, the ideal inland port is able to handle multimodal and intermodal freight operations, has the ability to process international trade, and provides value-added services expected by shippers. As both the private sector and the Department of Defense (DoD) become more focused on rapid global distribution and efficient supply chains, inland ports will become more important. Transportation infrastructure and distribution planners are recognizing that inland ports may also promote more efficient multimodal corridors to support traditional terminals, especially in the case of ocean ports. The emerging efforts to develop an integrated inland port system within the United States are evaluated and summarized in this chapter.
