The project concerns the supply and implementation of a Terminal Operating System (TOS) for the operational management of the TIN intermodal rail terminal (Terminal Intermodale di Nola), a strategic logistics hub in Southern Italy.

The objective is to equip the terminal with an advanced digital platform for the integrated management of rail–road flows, improving efficiency, traceability, and interoperability with supply chain operators (MTOs, freight forwarders, road transport providers).

The project is part of the logistics digitalization initiatives promoted by the PNRR and enables integration with national and international ecosystems.

The implementation is based on the proprietary I-TOS (Intermodal Terminal Operating System) platform, a web-based multi-user solution designed for the full management of complex intermodal terminal operations.

The platform enables integrated management of rail and logistics flows, including train planning, intermodal booking, yard management, UTI tracking, and gate-in/gate-out process control. It also supports real-time operations through dedicated mobile applications for yard operators and crane operators.

Key distinguishing elements include a high level of integration with rail and shipping operators such as MSC, MEDLOG, and GTS Rail, the management of import/export container flows related to the Gioia Tauro hinterland scenario, and interoperability with logistics and customs systems via EDI standards. The project also addressed go-live challenges and integration with third-party systems through a structured approach.

Technologies and standards used

The solution is based on DBA’s proprietary I-TOS platform, developed with a web-based multi-user and multi-profile architecture and delivered in Cloud mode through certified data centers.

The system integrates EDI modules for automated exchange of logistics and operational data via SFTP, XML, EDIGES, and standards interoperable with rail operators, shipping companies, ERP, and TMS systems. It also supports integration with customs corridors, gate automation systems (GOS), and digital logistics standards such as PLN, eFTI, and eCMR.

Development and management of the solution were carried out using AGILE methodologies and ITIL best practices.

Benefits and results

The project enabled optimization of terminal operational processes, improving truck–train flow management and reducing waiting times in operational and gate activities.

The platform increased traceability and visibility of loading units (UTIs), fostering stronger digital integration between logistics operators, rail operators, and terminal stakeholders. It also supports hinterland traffic management and international container flows, ensuring scalability and readiness for future platform enhancements.

DBA delivered an end-to-end implementation of the I-TOS platform, covering the entire system lifecycle from initial analysis to go-live and operational support. Activities included operational process analysis and requirements gathering (gap analysis), system configuration and customization of I-TOS, and delivery of both core and advanced TOS modules for intermodal terminal operations. The company also managed integration with external systems such as MEDLOG, MSC, GTS, and ERP, developing EDI interfaces and interoperability modules for logistics data exchange. The project included installation, testing, commissioning, and go-live activities, cloud-based platform delivery, as well as user training and continuous operational support.