A network design optimization problem for ro-ro freight transport in the Tyrrhenian area

Roll-on Roll-of (Ro-Ro) transport is one of the primary options EU policy is focusing on for developing intermodal transport and MOS initiatives, aimed at reducing road transport (especially trucks). In line with EU guidelines, this study proposes an integrated and optimized network scheme for the maritime Ro-Ro freight services currently operating in the Italian Tyrrhenian area to improve the overall supply of shipping services. The methodological approach used is based on the integration of the timetables and frequencies of existing freight shipping services using an original mathematical model that assigns demand flows to the network while trying to minimize a multi-objective function composed of a weighted sum of travel times and tariffs. Quantitative results show the positive impact generated by rescheduling and coordinating liner shipping and demonstrate how a ‘Tyrrhenian network system' considered as a whole would be more attractive than the single services taken collectively.