Optimising load planning and container routing in intermodal rail transport

Due to the geographical distance between producers and consumers, the impact of our current transport system on the environment is considerable. In an ideal, more sustainable transport system, several complementary transport modes are available, so that the most suitable route can always be selected. Because multiple transport modes and operators are involved, decision processes become more complex. That is why this research focuses on the development of innovative transport systems with realistic characteristics and planning limitations, in order to stimulate intermodal transport. Two planning tools have been developed to support decisions made by intermodal transport planners. It concerns on the one hand the integration of intermodal short and long distance routing and on the other hand the loading planning of trains. Both tools consist of fast planning algorithms that can handle realistic problem properties and can be integrated into transport management systems. The objective is to minimize transport costs and to make maximum use of available transport capacity.