Port feeder barges as a means to improve intra-port container logistics in multi-terminal ports

Abstract

The unique Port Feeder Barge (PFB) can be considered as a “green logistic innovation” for container ports. The self-propelled and self-sustained container pontoon of double-ended configuration (capacity: 168 TEU) can release the terminal gates from queuing trucks and the terminal ship-to-shore gantry cranes from inefficiently serving small inland barges. The PFB can be employed in three business fields: Shifting container haulage within ports from road to waterway, supporting feeder operation, and loading and discharging inland barges. The PFB can be easily integrated in the container logistics within a port. In congested ports or ports with limited water depth and/or insufficient container handling capability even deep-sea vessels can be directly served midstream by the PFB. Hence the PFB can also be used as an emergency response vessel to quickly lighter grounded container vessels. The green potential of the vessel can be further exploited by using LNG as fuel.