Improved port gate procedures for a better port-city relation

Road congestion caused by port activities is a well-known problem that is often highlighted by local communities as one of the main negative issues related to port operations. Studies also show that road congestion can affect the competitive position of ports. The problem can be tackled in a number of ways. The paper is divided into two parts. In the first part of the paper, the authors analyse the literature on the effectiveness of various procedures and upgrades at the port gates that can improve the gate turnaround times. The second part is a case study. In the second part of the paper, the authors quantify the current negative impacts of port-related road congestion and the benefits of introducing selected measures at the gates of the port of Koper. Isolation of single best measure is impossible due to simultaneous introduction of measures.