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Real-Life Synchromodality Challenges: A Qualitative Study in Flanders

Author

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  • Mylena Cristine Rodrigues de Jesus

    (Department of Transport and Regional Economics, Faculty of Business and Economics, University of Antwerp, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium)

  • Edwin van Hassel

    (Department of Transport and Regional Economics, Faculty of Business and Economics, University of Antwerp, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium)

  • Thierry Vanelslander

    (Department of Transport and Regional Economics, Faculty of Business and Economics, University of Antwerp, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium)

Abstract

The search for more sustainable freight transport has been the focus in the last decades. In this way, the concept of synchromodality was built considering the collaboration of shippers and logistic service providers to enable real-time switching between transport modes and mode-free transport bookings, encouraging more flexible and sustainable freight transportation. However, there are several challenges to its implementation in real life, which is the focus of this paper. To achieve this, in addition to a literature study, a case study was conducted in Flanders, using a combination of qualitative methods, i.e., focus groups (FG) and expert interviews, aiming to bridge the gap between theory and practice. Challenges such as real-time decision making, limited infrastructure capacity, and the need for stakeholder collaboration were emphasized. Expert insights highlight the need for a forecast-based approach to facilitate mode shift decisions, particularly from roadway to inland waterway transport (IWT). The analysis underscores the potential benefits of the proposed synchromodal technology while acknowledging the requirements needed to make it real.

Suggested Citation

  • Mylena Cristine Rodrigues de Jesus & Edwin van Hassel & Thierry Vanelslander, 2023. "Real-Life Synchromodality Challenges: A Qualitative Study in Flanders," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(24), pages 1-14, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:15:y:2023:i:24:p:16836-:d:1300027
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Zhang, M. & Pel, A.J., 2016. "Synchromodal hinterland freight transport: Model study for the port of Rotterdam," Journal of Transport Geography, Elsevier, vol. 52(C), pages 1-10.
    2. Rentschler, J. & Elbert, R. & Weber, F., 2022. "Promoting Sustainability through Synchromodal Transportation: A Systematic Literature Review and Future Fields of Research," Publications of Darmstadt Technical University, Institute for Business Studies (BWL) 134691, Darmstadt Technical University, Department of Business Administration, Economics and Law, Institute for Business Studies (BWL).
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