Assessing the objectives of dry ports: main issues, challenges and opportunities in Brazil

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose is to identify the main characteristics of dry ports (DPs) in Brazil, discussing the role of this logistic player, challenges and opportunities. Furthermore, this study provides a structured framework to drive DP decision-makers, identifying and assessing a network of means–end objectives, which could be replicable to other contexts.Design/methodology/approachThis article approached initially a literature review and exploratory research to discuss the main characteristics of DPs in Brazil. The second step was to conduct a qualitative analysis following the value-focused thinking (VFT) approach in two case studies in Pernambuco state to assess the achievement of the main objectives.FindingsThis article identified that the main characteristics of DPs in Brazil are offering additional services with a cheaper storage cost, handling mainly import cargo and being connected to seaports through highways. Moreover, this study resulted in a framework to assess the objectives of DPs, which could be replicable in other contexts, improving the current operations of DPs.Practical implicationsThe framework to assess DPs' objectives bridged the gap between the literature and the practice working as a tool to drive decision-makers to improve the current performance of DPs in Brazil. Additionally, the main issues, challenges and opportunities discussed provide managers, policymakers and DPs operators with valuable insights into this theme.Originality/valueThis paper is the first study to present a framework to assess the objectives of DPs as a valuable tool to drive decision-makers to improve DPs operations. From this study, lessons could be learned and the process described could be replicable in other countries.

Research Trends in Dry Port Sustainability: A Bibliometric Analysis

“…Research on dry ports is still in its infancy; the majority of publications concentrate on the conceptualization and definition of the activities, which vary depending on the viewpoints of the authors and the applications in different nations [23]. Rodrigues et al [25] highlight that the investigation of the dry port establishment outside of Asia and Europe is lacking. They also emphasized the significance of developing decision-making models that consider the perspectives of a wide range of trade logistics stakeholders rather than focusing mainly on dry port locational issues.…”

“…Major dry ports and their sustainability initiatives [66] are presented in Table 6. A dry port was traditionally characterized as an inland terminal where shipping companies could issue bills of lading to and from [25]. Subsequently, it has been demonstrated that cooperation among dry ports in supply chains improves prospects for cargo flow processing by redirecting cargo shipments from overburdened dry port terminals to those with reserves and processing capacity [72].…”

“…Dry ports ensure higher levels of land connectivity, cut demurrage costs, and reduce congestion and delays in the trade supply chain network [9]. Within the broader network of trade logistics operations, dry ports facilitate better integration with the various actors in the supply chain [10].…”

Port Competition and Cooperation Under Emission and Privatization

“…Henttu and Hilmola ( 27 ) concluded through macro gravitational models of distribution that the development of dry ports is an inland distribution strategy that will reduce emissions and overall transportation costs. Similarly, Rodrigues et al ( 28 ) pointed out that in European and Asian countries, the development of dry ports is considered a viable option to reduce environmental impact through improving the congestion in seaports and delays in the supply chain. Ivanov et al ( 29 ) conducted research and found that dry ports can not only create additional capacity and eliminate the so-called ripple effect in the supply chain, but also reduce emissions in seaports by reducing traffic jams at ports and reducing the number of freight operations.…”

Assessment of Logistics Operations Performance of Modjo Dry Port, Ethiopia

“…Taking quality, connectivity, information communication technology, congestion, transporters, freight forwarders, and inspection agencies as indicators into account, the logistics infrastructure of MDP was assessed. Poor network infrastructure and bureaucratic customs processes are some of the challenges identified in Brazil's dry ports (Rodrigues T. et al 2020). Staff and safety measures in MDP were measured applying availability, speed, incentive, training, protective equipment, and health and safety processes indicators.…”