Decision framework for location and selection of container multimodal hubs: A case in china under the belt and road initiative

Abstract

The location and selection of logistics nodes that facilitate the China Railway Express and rail-sea intermodal transportation has received increasing attention in China under the Belt and Road Initiative. The objective is to solve problems caused by the increasing number of origin cities opening international trains, such as disorderly competition, insufficient cargoes and low overall coordination. This study screens 22 cities as candidate Chinese international container multimodal hubs (CICMHs) in consideration of the actual situation of China's trade transportation. Thirteen indicators are screened using the information contribution rate-information substitutability method. Then, a comprehensive evaluation model is proposed to evaluate the candidate CICMHs and rank them. The model is based on the extended grey relational analysis-technique for order preference similar to ideal solution in combination with prospect theory. Chongqing, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Wuhan, Chengdu, Xi'an, Nanjing, Tianjin, Zhengzhou and Dalian are selected as the CICMHs. Moreover, a sensitivity analysis of the index weight fluctuations and decision-makers' preference and a comparative analysis of different decision-making methods are performed. The robustness and stability of the proposed model are demonstrated. This study can support the location and selection of CICMHs and expand the methods and applications in the decision-making field.