Spatial analysis of the hinterlands of container terminals

Seaports have evolved from simple maritime gateways into complex logistics platforms whose competitiveness increasingly depends on the efficiency and integration of inland transport connections. Traditional distance-based approaches to defining hinterlands are no longer sufficient, as functional and logistical determinants play a crucial role in shaping port catchment areas. This study proposes a methodology for analyzing the hinterlands of container ports in Northern and Central Italy by combining Floating Car Data (FCD) with spatial network analytics. Truck movements are traced to delineate port catchment areas, identify overlaps and cross-reference freight demand with port supply indicators. The results show that hinterlands often overlap, particularly among geographically proximate ports and that their extent correlates more with traffic intensity and logistics performance than with mere spatial closeness. The findings confirm the value of FCD as a robust tool for representing freight flows and provide new insights into the complexity of port-hinterland dynamics, offering a data-driven basis for more effective planning and strategic decision-making.