2.13 Intermodal Freight

ITS can facilitate the safe, efficient, secure, and seamless movement of freight. Figure 2.13.1 shows how intermodal freight applications fit into the ITS classification scheme. Freight tracking applications can monitor, detect, and communicate freight status information to ensure containers remain sealed while en route. In addition, asset tracking technologies can monitor the location and identity of containers in real-time. ITS freight terminal processes can improve operations at freight transfer stations, using information technology to expedite procedures often carried out using paper records. These technologies combined can provide an electronic freight manifest, reducing shipment processing time and increasing the productivity of freight carriers and the freight transportation system. Security can be augmented by tracking devices that confirm the location and condition of freight as it is sealed for transfer. ITS support for drayage operations can promote the efficient transfer of cargo by truck around major port facilities, using information technology to provide dispatchers and truck drivers with information on vessel traffic, container/cargo availability, on- and off-port traffic conditions, and delay times at terminal entrances. At international border crossings, automating revenue transactions and faster, more efficient confirmation of cargo manifest information can reduce delays associated with customs and tax collection processing. In addition, ITS applications that optimize traffic control and coordinate transfers near intermodal ports of entry can help reduce the strain of increased freight movement on the nation's freight highway connector system.

Table 2.13.1 provides information on the benefits and costs of intermodal freight. An assessment of the impact of these systems is indicated by using the symbols in the Impact Legend at the bottom of each page.

Table 2.13.1 – Benefits and Costs of ITS Applications for Intermodal Freight

Freight Tracking

Benefits
Goal Area	# of Studies	Impact	Example
Customer Satisfaction	1	?	During the Electronic Intermodal Supply Chain Manifest field operational test in Chicago, Illinois, and New York, New York, participants thought access to real-time cargo shipment information over the Internet was beneficial. Manufacturers, carriers, and airports that used the system thought it was easy to use, and were very satisfied with the system's capability of duplicating necessary business functions. The system was expected to improve operational efficiency if more fully deployed.[22]
Costs
Unit Costs Database	Roadside Telecommunications subsystem Commercial Vehicle On-Board subsystem Fleet Management Center subsystem		See Appendix A
System Cost	No data to report.

Asset Tracking

Benefits
No data to report.
Costs
Unit Costs Database	Roadside Telecommunications subsystem Commercial Vehicle On-Board subsystem Fleet Management Center subsystem	See Appendix A
System Cost	A tracking device installed on fleet trailers can integrate Global Positioning System (GPS) technology with the Internet to provide a secure cost-effective method for remote and accurate management of trailers. The self-powered unit has a rechargeable battery pack, a roof-mounted combination GPS and wireless antenna, and a roof-mounted solar panel.[23]	Cost: beginning at $800 per trailer (2000) Monthly service cost: $19 per subscriber with a three-year contract (2000)

Freight Terminal Processes

Benefits
Goal Area	# of Studies	Impact	Example
Productivity	1	?	An electronic supply chain manifest system implemented biometric and smart-card devices to automate manual paper-based cargo data transfers between manufacturers, carriers, and airports in Chicago, Illinois, and New York, New York. Although participation was limited, the system was expected to improve efficiency. The time required for truckers to accept cargo from manufacturers decreased by about four minutes per shipment, and the time required for airports to accept the deliveries decreased by about three minutes per shipment.[22]
Costs
Unit Costs Database	No data to report.
System Cost	No data to report.

Drayage Operations

Benefits
Goal Area	# of Studies	Impact	Example
Mobility	1	?	An analytical demand model estimated the impacts of implementing an appointment system designed to expedite cargo handling at transfer stations by pre-registering truck arrival times at terminal gates. The model indicated that if all trucks used the appointment system, total in-terminal time across all vehicles would decrease 48%.[160]
Costs
Unit Costs Database	No data to report.
System Cost	No data to report.

Table of Contents | Previous | Next

ITS Home | US DOT Home | Privacy | Feedback

United States Department of Transportation - ITS