Gateways represent the fundamental interface structure between regional and global
transport systems (Van Klink and Van Den Berg 1998). Gateways are essential in
connecting economic regions to overseas areas. This section aims at analyzing the
influence that gateways have on freight regionalism, by focusing on gateway container
ports and their relation to logistics zones and the development of intermodalism
and corridors. The interface between regional and global container transport systems
can be impacted by several factors, such as policies favoring specific ports of entry. If
10 Containerized Freight Distribution in North America and Europe 231left relatively unimpeded, however, a natural gateway will be established based on the
level of accessibility and economic activity of its hinterland.