At present, there are some problems in port gathering and transportation mode, such as paying attention to efficiency, neglecting environmental protection; focusing on scale expansion, neglecting the coordination of transportation system. Barriers between different modes of transport and lack of communication channels lead to facility layout optimization difficulties, which makes it difficult to form a freight hub. One of the decisive factors for a port to be built as a hub port is to be supported by a perfect collection and distribution network. The advantages of Rail-sea intermodal transport are large capacity, high safety, low cost and low emissions. The development of Rail-sea intermodal transport is conducive to promoting the adjustment of transport structure and facilitate regional export-oriented economic advance. However, the proportion of port cargo carried by railway in China is relatively low, and the collection and transportation capacity of the railway is insufficient ,which restricts the sustainable development of the port. By comparing and analyzing the characteristics of freight demand of different types of ports, this paper summarizes the characteristics of different modes of transport. Taking the construction of port gathering and transportation system in Shanghai port-vicinity industrial zone as an example, this paper clarifies the necessity of the construction of sea-rail intermodal transport and its functional orientation in various modes of transport. Finally, the challenges faced by the development of sea-rail intermodal transport are pointed out. Keywords: sea-rail intermodal transport; port collection and distribution; freight hub

CICTP