ABSTRACT
This chapter explores how the concept of hubbing is applied and understood differently by many of those involved. It argues that the container shipping hubs established by the carriers are functionally and frequently geographically distinct from the distribution complexes established by the logistics industry. The chapter focuses on the interests and objectives of the carriers, drawn in part by personal experience of working for a shipping line. It examines the misconceptions about shipping and logistic hubbing that are prevalent, particularly in public policies that seek to promote economic development in transhipment hub ports. The chapter also explores the reasons why public bodies seek to combine transhipment and logistics in their development strategies. It suggests that while gateway ports do combine logistics functions, albeit at increasing distance from the ports themselves, it is very difficult to adapt logistics to transhipment. The chapter reveals the necessity of dissecting the objectives of the different actors in transport chains.
