Co-Modality for Sydney’s Ferries

Abstract

Logistics issues arising from the last mile delivery of goods in an urban environment are plentiful. Co-modality, whereby the movement of freight and passengers are integrated on the same public transport mode, can mitigate road congestion and promote sustainable transport. This working paper investigates the merits of using co-modality for the ‘intermediate mile’ with Sydney’s ferries in Australia. A global review of field trials found that a high level of stakeholder interaction and a robust data management system are necessary to ensure the success of the endeavour. A review of the transit assignment literature led to the selection of the frequency-based transit assignment model to locate spare capacity in the ferry network before the pandemic. Additionally, there was an evaluation of every ferry station’s suitability for handling cargo with proposals for storage areas within each ferry station. An assessment of a range of Unit Load Devices (ULDs) in which goods are carried led to the selection of the ‘meter cube’ container as the most viable for Sydney’s ferries. Tracking and tracing requirements were reviewed. Four business models are developed for different delivery processes and types of cargo – pickup and delivery of full meter cube containers, parcels transported in meter cube containers, or perishable goods transported in refrigerated meter cube containers. The repositioning of empty meter cube containers is not considered in detail. Potential limitations, risks and next steps for the successful implementation of co-modality for Sydney’s ferries are detailed.