## 6 Managerial Insights  
Drawing from the comprehensive analysis conducted in our study, along with a rigorous assessment of the literature, we provide several managerial insights pertinent to the scheduling operations at barge-road hubs:  
* Integrating a multi-agent system into the barge-road hub scheduling facilitates a dynamic and responsive approach to logistics, allowing different agents (e.g., ships, trucks, and dock managers) to interact seamlessly and optimising the overall hub efficiency;
* The application of a mathematical model, in conjunction with the multi-agent system, ensures precision in operational planning and decision-making, especially in complex logistical environments where multiple objectives must be balanced;
* Emphasising sustainability, the dual-mode (barge-road) hub supports a reduction in carbon emissions through optimised modal shifts and efficient route planning, aligning with broader environmental goals.  
Our proposed model has garnered interest from a key industry player in the logistics sector, emphasising the practical applicability of our findings. The complexity and adaptability of our models are particularly suited to environments where multiple transportation modes converge, prompting interest in advanced heuristic algorithms that can be integrated into existing logistical frameworks.  
As illustrated in Figure 7, the deployment of real-time data collection systems, such as IoT devices, enhances the visibility and control over logistics operations, enabling more effective management of resources and schedules. The implications of this study extend to various sectors:  
Figure 6: Cumulative distribution function (CDF) of CO\({}_{2}\) emissions.  
* Academically, this research contributes to the development of advanced mathematical and multi-agent models, enriching the field of logistics and supply chain management and paving the way for future research in multi-modal hub operations.
* In industry, this model's application could lead to improved efficiency in barge-road hub operations, reducing the turnaround times and operational costs, thereby enhancing service levels and customer satisfaction. The use of sustainable practices and technologies can further position companies as leaders in green logistics.
* Environmentally, the implementation of such advanced systems can lead to a reduced carbon footprint, an enhanced competitive advantage, and potential growth in the market shares of companies adopting these innovations.  
Further research is needed to scale these solutions for broader implementation. Real-world trials and collaboration with industry stakeholders will be essential to refine these models and fully realise their potential in managing complex logistics networks. Additional insights from such collaborations could also lead to the development of new standards and practices, further enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of logistics operations globally. The development of these hubs aligns with the goals of major international logistics initiatives, like those outlined by the European Technology Platform ALICE (Alliance for Logistics Innovation through Collaboration in Europe) [37]. Beyond these insights, the integration of barge-road hubs within the PI paradigm offers unique global industrial advantages, such as improved collaboration across the supply chain and enhanced modularity and standardisation of transport units. These features not only facilitate better physical handling of products but also promote more integrated and transparent data exchange across platforms, enhancing the supply chain's overall responsiveness and efficiency.