The role of intelligent logistics centres in a multimodal and cost-effective transport system

This paper describes the role of logistics centres including intelligent solutions in a multimodal transport system. The background is related to the logistics infrastructure in global logistics focusing on various warehouses, distribution centres and logistics business parks. These logistics nodes form an essential part of the logistics network in order to gain cost-effective and sustainable global logistics system. This paper is based on a case study and presents potential business models and service entities for logistics area level automatic identification (AutoID) services, concentrating on RFID. As a result several potential AutoID services were identified and they can be classified into two clearly separate service entities: areal and company-specific services. The proposed services encourage using RFID by offering leased infrastructure and supporting services for example. According to the study the most suitable way to provide AutoID services in a logistics area is to establish an areal service company to be responsible for different services including AutoID services.