ReMuNet’s Work Package 2 is focused on creating a reference infrastructure network for European multimodal transport corridors. It aims to categorize disruptions and orchestrate capacity allocation that are integrated in a collaborative platform while reducing European inland transport emissions on the main routes by over 50%. To this end, an expert workshop was held, bringing together seasoned dispatchers, network planners, and IT specialists from Contargo, PTV, and FIR. This workshop played a crucial role in validating key assumptions for specific use cases and disruptions within the trimodal transport network along the Rhine. The focus was on improving the efficiency and resilience of freight transportation by combining barge, rail, and road modes.

One of the core tasks of the session involved transferring timetable data into the ReMuNet routing algorithm, which is designed to dynamically adapt to both scheduled transport services and unforeseen events. Simulations of transport orders were carried out, with a particular focus on low water levels in the Rhine, a frequent challenge for barge transport, as well as on combined container transport by barge and rail. These simulations helped assess the algorithm’s ability to respond to disruptions and ensure smooth coordination between different modes of transport.

A significant part of the discussion centred around the comparison of decentralised and centralised concepts for optimising transport operations. The decentralised approach, which is the current standard, focuses on local optimisation. In contrast, the centralised approach, inspired by the principles of the Physical Internet, aims for overall system optimisation, considering the broader network performance. The experts debated the potential advantages and challenges of each approach, providing valuable insights for refining the ReMuNet project’s overall strategy.

The workshop also allowed for discussions on the next steps and how to further detail the use case scenarios and routing options. As the project moves forward, additional workshops will take place with other rail and barge experts from the Contargo network to ensure comprehensive feedback and refinement.
The involvement of key professionals, including Michael Karcher, Thomas Neukirchen, and Alexandra Kops from Contargo, Florian Krietsch and Marcel Huschebeck from PTV, and John von Stamm and Jost Bek from FIR, ensured a well-rounded discussion, addressing both technical and operational perspectives.

This workshop represents a critical phase in the ongoing efforts of the ReMuNet project to enhance freight transport solutions, particularly along the Rhine’s trimodal network. Through collaboration and expertise, the project is working toward a more resilient and optimised logistics system.