Dynamic multimodal transport planning is vital for enhancing flexibility and responsiveness in emergency logistics. We propose a dynamic planning approach that integrates drones into the multimodal system with trains, trucks, and aircraft, introducing dual-role drones that can be transported as cargo and later operate as carriers. A Mixed Integer Programming (MIP) model, optimized via a rolling horizon approach, supports real-time route planning. Given the problem’s complexity, we develop an Adaptive Large Neighborhood Search (ALNS) algorithm with problem-specific operators. The model accounts for mode coordination, routing constraints, and cargo heterogeneity. It dynamically replans routes under disruptions such as road damage, considering mode availability and delivery requirements. Numerical experiments are conducted based on a real disaster scenario. A comparison with an exact method shows improved computational efficiency and solution quality. Further comparisons with a drone-free and static approach highlight gains in service rate and disruption resilience. We also examine the impact of cargo heterogeneity. These results, across instances from 5 to 400 orders, provide practical insights for optimizing drone deployment, transport mode selection, and cargo management in disaster response.

This review aims to explore the potential for synchromodal transport planning at the operational level. Synchromodal transport planning involves the optimization of the movement of freights across multiple transport modes, with the objective of minimizing cost, improving efficiency, and promoting sustainability. Through this review, we provide a roadmap for methodological developments in the area of operational synchromodal transport planning research. The roadmap provides a comprehensive categorization of different fields and their trends. The fundamentals of synchromodal transport planning are evolved to more flexible planning approaches that take practical considerations and multiple objectives into account. Dynamic planning is evolving to become more adaptive and resilient to changing environments. Finally, collaborative planning will continue to integrate both vertical and horizontal collaboration with distributed optimization approaches. With dynamic and collaborative approaches considering preferences, the full potential of synchromodal transport planning can be unlocked towards efficient and sustainable freight transportation.