How to efficiently store semi-trailers in inland ports?

Purpose Inland ports and combined transport hubs are the logistics backbone in terms of spatial development with the ability to transport large volumes. They are of crucial importance to enhance sustainability of the logistics sector and to avoid traffic congestion. Logistics is highly competitive and deals with small margins which makes operational efficiency a key factor to success. The question of how to ideally store loading units (LU) in inland ports contributes heavily towards operational efficiency. While seaports, due to their standardized, large-scale operation, often rely on strictly defined handling processes, inland ports require more flexibility due to fluctuating demands and ever-changing requirements. Since existing literature often focuses on (containerized) large seaports and neglects the diverging baseline, priorities and demands of inland ports, a research gap in inland port storage strategies is assumed. Research Approach This paper is a first step on the journey to identify efficient storage strategies for small to medium sized inland ports. As a first step we propose a structured (PRISMA-based) literature review with the focus on established solutions of LU storage strategies, considering the individual needs of small to medium handling facilities. As a second step, an in-depth comparative analysis will be conducted which will be followed by suitable recommendations for practice. Findings and Originality The structured research yielded 325 peer-reviewed research papers. After an initial filtering a set of 57 papers were considered for an in-depth search. The reviewing showed that very few papers focus on and distinguish between inland ports and seaports. LU storage strategies as the object of research is also scarce. The joint consideration of both does not exist in academic literature yet. Research Impact With this literature review a research gap is clearly shown. Although there are plenty of findings regarding seaports as well as regarding container stacking strategies only few papers actually deal with inland port storage strategies. Moreover, the reviewed papers consider inland port storage decisions a side effect or prerequisite to adjacent topics. The scientific landscape on the topic of inland port storage strategies needs to be continued and expanded in the future. Practical Impact Inland ports and terminals operate in a highly competitive market, where managing scarce resources and operational disruptions is a key priority to maintain customer satisfaction. Lean and efficient processes are an essential factor for success. Established operational solutions are not tailored to and often not suitable for inland port operators. Identifying ideal storage strategies with respect to inland port operators’ actual needs (e.g. constant changes of LU type and volume and the consequent demand of flexibility) supports them in their daily business.