EUROGATE Intermodal (EGIM) further optimises traffic logistics within the congested port of Hamburg. The Hamburg-based international service provider for intermodal container transport via road and rail launched an updated version of its TRoad application on 06.05.2019. The app, which was first launched in March 2015, simplifies route planning for local transport in and around the Port of Hamburg, taking into account current market requirements, especially with regard to the slot booking system. The app communicates directly with the driver’s smartphone via push messages and assigns trips to them.
The updated version of TRoad, which EGIM developed with HITeC (Hamburg Information Technology Center e.V.) at the University of Hamburg, simplifies the scheduling and control of truck transport considerably. Before TRoad was launched for the first time, drivers had to rely on port radio and were sometimes forced to make empty trips in order to pick up the papers for their next assignment at the dispatching office. With the new TRoad, an automated algorithm now calculates the most efficient transport solution for each order.
This is done on the basis of past journeys and the current traffic situation, so that the most suitable driver is selected from all affiliated companies with regard to time, location and organisational aspects (e.g. hazardous goods transport, driver qualifications). Availability and necessary chassis changes are also taken into account. Thus, EGIM can make optimum use of the slot booking system at the Port of Hamburg and at the same time contributes to increasing its efficiency.
Each driver can be self-sufficient and the processes are also optimised for planners. The elimination of waiting times leads to a significantly improved transport flow for all parties involved. As a result, EGIM increases the volume of its transports. In addition, EGIM planners are always informed about the current location of individual containers. Furthermore, a leaner fleet management team can monitor the stock and the current status of proprietary chassis.
TRoad was first developed to optimise the internal processes at EGIM. Due to the high potential for increasing the efficiency of transport processes, the application is now also available to third parties via EGIM’s IT department. Customers also have the option of integrating their data flows directly into the EGIM system via digital interfaces. This solution increases the efficiency of all parties involved.
Lars Hedderich, Managing Director of EGIM, explains: “With TRoad, we offer our partners a complete digital package that incorporates all transport processes and creates synergies. These more efficient processes create a win-win situation – for EGIM, freight forwarders and drivers. With the new TRoad, EGIM is once again consolidating its position as a driver of digitisation in combined transport”.