The concepts of intermodal logistics and distribution networks have made integration of the inland freight distribution system essential for an efficient container seaport system. Inland components, such as dry ports, which exist within the seaport system, have become important in shaping the performance and competitive strategies of container seaports. Owing to the importance of interdependence between dry ports and container seaports, this paper aims to investigate the impact of dry port operations on container seaport competitiveness. It conducted an empirical study in Malaysia through 120 online surveys to key stakeholders of dry ports, including freight forwarders, shippers, seaports, rail operator, shipping lines, and haulers. The data collected were analysed using exploratory factor analysis (EFA). The results from EFA show that Malaysian dry port operations have impacts on seaport competitiveness. These include enhancing seaport performance, increasing service variations for seaports, improving seaport-hinterland proximity, increasing seaport trade volume, and enhancing seaport capacity.

Item Type:	Refereed Article
Keywords:	dry ports, Malaysia, container seaports, competitiveness, exploratory factor analysis
Research Division:	Commerce, Management, Tourism and Services
Research Group:	Transportation, logistics and supply chains
Research Field:	Transportation, logistics and supply chains not elsewhere classified
Objective Division:	Transport
Objective Group:	Water transport
Objective Field:	Port infrastructure and management
UTAS Author:	Chen, S-L (Associate Professor Peggy Chen)
UTAS Author:	Cahoon, S (Associate Professor Stephen Cahoon)
ID Code:	127751
Year Published:	2018
Web of Science® Times Cited:	1
Deposited By:	Maritime and Logistics Management
Deposited On:	2018-08-13
Last Modified:	2020-05-05
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