Title: An exploratory analysis of the effects of modal split obligations in terminal concession contracts

Authors: Roy Van den Berg; Peter W. De Langen

Addresses: Department Containers, Breakbulk and Logistics, Port of Rotterdam Authority, Wilhelminakade 909, 3072 AP Rotterdam, The Netherlands ' Department of Industrial Engineering and Innovation Sciences, Eindhoven University of Technology, De Lismortel, 5612 AR Eindhoven, The Netherlands

Abstract: The port authority of Rotterdam has been the first to incorporate modal split obligations in concession contracts for container terminals. Given the increasing focus of port authorities on sustainable hinterland connectivity, other port authorities may also move in this direction. A reduced share of road transport in the modal split can increase competitiveness in the hinterland, secure better levels of road accessibility and reduce the carbon footprint of hinterland transport. Through in-depth interviews with the three major terminal operating companies in Rotterdam, this paper explores the effects of modal split obligations. The impact of modal split obligations in concession contracts ranges from an impact solely on terminal design to an effect on the business model that terminal operating companies apply in a specific port.

Keywords: modal split obligations; terminal operating companies; TOCs; business models; Port of Rotterdam; Maasvlakte 2; terminal concession contracts; The Netherlands; modal transport; container terminals; port authorities; road accessibility; carbon footprint; hinterland transport; terminal design.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2014.064903

International Journal of Shipping and Transport Logistics, 2014 Vol.6 No.6, pp.571 - 592

Received: 09 Jul 2012
Accepted: 20 Jun 2013
Published online: 27 Sep 2014 *

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