Operational Implications of the U-Shaped Yard System in Automated Container Terminals

Purpose – In recent years, global container terminals have undergone a transformation characterized by enhanced efficiency and the adoption of diverse yard system designs. In this study, we analyzed the newly emerging U-shaped yard system in comparison with the conventional perpendicular yard system in the context of automated container terminals to compare the operational performance of the two systems. Design/Methodology – A discrete-event simulation model was developed to integrate the operational logic of the two types of yard systems and then used to make an objective comparison of their overall performance and equipment efficiency. Findings – The simulation results indicate that the U-shaped yard system showed significant advantages over the perpendicular yard system in terms of operational efficiency and container processing capacity. The superior performance of the U-shaped yard system was evident in terms of several key operational metrics, including handling efficiency, equipment utilization, and container dwell time. These findings substantiate the practical value of the U-shaped yard system in enhancing Originality/value – The findings indicate that the U-shaped yard system significantly enhances equipment utilization and reduces container dwell time in comparison to the perpendicular yard system. Furthermore, the U-shaped yard system can serve as a pivotal technical strategy for ports seeking to transition toward high-efficiency, secure, and sustainable operations. This system also offers a pragmatic solution to increasingly complex logistical challenges in global trade environments. These insights have notable implications for trade managers as well as terminal operators.