Justification of the possibility of processing containerized bulk cargoes at a marine terminal

The study examines the feasibility of organizing the delivery and processing of bulk cargo at marine container terminals experiencing reduced cargo turnover due to the sanctions imposed by Western countries. It is emphasized that such a task arises from the need to maximize the transport potential of delivery modes bringing goods to the port and the capacity of transshipment complexes not initially designed for handling bulk cargo. Modeling a transport system capable of optimizing this process necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of the operational performance of transport means throughout the entire route—from the manufacturing plant to the marine container terminal. The paper explores the possibility of developing a model for creating a transport system based on forming a container train unit consisting of "railway platform – bulk containers" and provides a brief description of this concept. During the analysis of related processes, it is highlighted that the accumulation of bulk containers depends on several factors: the circulation period of the circular container train delivering goods to the terminal, delivery schedules, vessel carrying capacity at the terminal, and meteorological conditions that may delay vessel operations. The study presents examples calculating the required number of bulk containers under various projected transport system parameters, including cargo delivery times to the terminal, waiting times for marine tonnage availability, and delays due to atmospheric conditions. The conclusion suggests that employing innovative technologies for handling bulk cargo could lead to significant increases in cargo turnover and expansion of the hinterland boundaries served by the marine terminal.