What distance to major ports or intermodal terminals affects logistics viability?

Distance to major ports and intermodal terminals is a critical factor that directly affects the logistics viability of industrial sites. Proximity to these nodes determines transportation costs, transit time, customs efficiency, and the competitiveness of supply chains, particularly for export-oriented manufacturing, import-reliant industries, and high-turnover logistics operations. Below are five key distance thresholds and their implications for industrial land viability:

1. Within 25–50 km of Major Seaports

• Ideal for port-centric industries such as petrochemicals, electronics, automotive exports, and perishables.
  
• Enables same-day cargo dispatch and return, reducing dwell time and transport overhead.
  
• Facilitates easy coordination with freight forwarders, customs brokers, and CFS (Container Freight Station) operators.
  
• Reduces risk of congestion charges, demurrage, and intermodal delays.

2. Within 50–100 km of Inland Container Depots (ICDs) or Dry Ports

• Offers access to rail-based container transport linked to maritime ports, improving cost efficiency for long-haul cargo.
  
• Suitable for bulk cargo exporters/importers, including engineering goods, auto parts, steel, and ceramics.
  
• Enables customs clearance and documentation inland, avoiding bottlenecks at seaports.
  
• Land near ICDs benefits from container storage yards, bonded warehouses, and rail siding connectivity.

3. Within 10–20 km of Multi-Modal Logistics Parks (MMLPs)

• Sites within short trucking distance of MMLPs benefit from:
  
  • Integrated warehousing and terminal operations
    
  • Quick access to road–rail interchange points
    
  • Availability of 3PL, 4PL, and cold chain providers
    
• Enhances efficiency for e-commerce, FMCG, and pharma sectors with high-speed distribution requirements.

4. Within 5–10 km of Major National Highways (NH) or Expressways

• Proximity to arterial road networks ensures:
  
  • Fast first-mile and last-mile freight movement
    
  • Round-the-clock truck movement with minimal congestion
    
  • Compatibility with axle-load regulations and logistics fleet planning
    
• Strategic for fulfillment centers, warehouse parks, and just-in-time manufacturers.
  

5. Beyond 100 km: Cost and Time Sensitivity Increases

• Sites beyond this range can still be viable if:
  
  • Served by high-speed expressways or freight corridors
    
  • Connected by private freight terminals or sidings
    
  • Located within industrial parks with in-house logistics hubs
    
• However, extended distances typically increase:
  
  • Fuel and labor costs
    
  • Delivery lead times
    

Risk of supply chain variability