Evolution of logistics hubs on inland waterways: from transit points to intelligent transport centers

The article explores the transformation of logistics hubs on Russia’s inland waterways (IWW) into intelligent transport centers capable of integrating into the country’s digital multimodal infrastructure. The relevance of the study is driven by the urgent need to modernize outdated river ports, enhance their logistics efficiency, and align their functions with national priorities in digitalization, sustainability, and spatial connectivity. Based on the analysis of strategic documents (Presidential Decree No. 309, the Transport Strategy of the Russian Federation, and national projects), scholarly literature, and international case studies, the authors justify the need for a systemic shift from traditional transshipment points to smart logistics hubs. These centers are to be equipped with advanced digital platforms, predictive management systems, multimodal integration capabilities, and environmental control technologies. The paper presents a conceptual model of an intelligent logistics center comprising five core components: a digital management platform, predictive analytics and artificial intelligence, multimodal integration interfaces, an environmental monitoring module, and a digital twin of the logistics node. This model aligns with both Russian state strategies and global trends in the development of smart ports and green logistics.