Towards π-ports: System characterization, integrated framework and future research

Achieving a sustainable and resilient logistics system under the Physical Internet (PI or π) paradigm hinges critically on the readiness of maritime ports to enable the required transformation. As a potentially high-friction point in the movement of physical goods, a harmonized framework that enables seamless π-port operations is needed. This paper develops such a framework to guide the systematic transformation of π-ports through a systematic literature review and a bibliometric analysis of research on port transformation, smart ports, and PI logistics. The proposed four-layer π-port framework integrates the Physical Layer, Digital Layer, Business and Financial Transactions Layer, and Governance and Decision Layer into a coherent architecture, and connects infrastructure, information flows, business transactions, value mechanisms, and multi-level decision-making. Rather than treating these dimensions in isolation, as existing port studies tend to do, the framework explicates their interdependencies as a prerequisite for effective π-port functioning. Priority research challenges are identified across interoperability standards, synchromodal coordination, decentralized governance, adaptive real-time decision-making, and national and local port contexts. By integrating physical operations, digital systems, business models, and governance into a single conceptual framework, this study provides an interdisciplinary foundation for researchers, port planners, and policymakers pursuing the transition to hyperconnected, resilient, and sustainable maritime logistics systems.