Use of Intermodal Information Technologies by Intermodal Ports and TerminalsServing Agriculture in Mississippi

摘要

Intermodal information technologies can be defined as those technologies involvedin acquiring, storing, processing, and distributing data and information by electronic means (including radio, television, telephone, and computers) between two or more different modes of transportation in such a way that all parts of the freight-transportation process are efficiently connected, seamless, coordinated, and continuous. Results from this study should help firms and ports improve their operational efficiencies, reduce information delays and errors, speed up cargo transfers, improve customer service, and improve overall productivity for the firm and port. Using intermodal information technologies also should help intermodal ports and terminals in maintaining or attracting additional traffic, since the competition for business is a fierce among ports and terminals as it is among carriers and agribusiness enterprises.