Seaport Container Terminals (SCT) operate as central nodes in worldwide
hub-and-spoke networks, and link ocean-going vessels with smaller feeder
vessels, as well as with inbound and outbound hinterland transportation
systems using road, rail, or inland waterways. The volume of
transcontinental container flows has gained enormously over the last
five decades frequently leading to double-digit annual growth rates for
the SCT.
The 2nd edition of the Handbook of Terminal Planning also deals with
problems being induced by questions of terminal development on a
long-term basis (strategic level). Facing present and upcoming
challenges for SCT operation-such as more and more mega vessels,
extremely high hinterland peaks, higher environmental standards, less
public acceptance and the stronger competition between terminals serving
the same hinterland-the focus of the book is on successful approaches
and solutions primarily addressing the planning of terminal structures.
Nevertheless, operational aspects are considered, as well as how they
effectively contribute to problem solving on the strategic level.