To cope with the growing throughput at EUROGATE Container Terminal Bremerhaven in the future, those responsible are planning a second module for the rail terminal as a facility for combined transport (CT). The limited space and traffic density on the terminal site required a careful location analysis. EUROGATE turned to AKQUINET for a comprehensive analysis of the impacts of different types of (automated) horizontal transport solutions on the layout of the traffic network around the rail terminal. The pros/cons of various potential equipment types have been analysed. Based on the results the optimal location of the second rail module has been found. This guarantees the future proofness as the decision about the transport equipment has not yet been made.

The simulation had to take into account the new complex of transshipment tracks and railway cranes had to fit logistically into the existing terminal structure - also with regard to future development and modernization. The planned area between the main lorry entrance (gate) and the existing Rail Terminal module was limited from the outset. Despite access via existing, frequently occupied tracks, the CT facility had to be easily accessible for terminal vehicles (straddle carriers). Furthermore, the following had to be determined for the CT facility: the possible handling volume without intermediate storage capacities as well as effective options for equipment and horizontal transport.