B737 Undifferentiated or Other Model
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Situational Awareness; Training / Qualification
Conflict Ground Conflict; Critical
Flight Crew Took Evasive Action
Human Factors
Approaching [the] gate at DFW. Cut off by numerous ground vehicles while trying to park. First vehicle did not realize we were parking at the gate; stopped inside the parking area and then exited forcing us to momentarily stop the aircraft. As we started to proceed to the gate; another baggage cart entered the parking area from our right. Besides forcing us to stop; this cart dropped trash and paper that littered the parking area. We stopped to have the FOD removed. Once the gate area was again clear; we were cut off again by another vehicle rushing around the ramp area. For our final attempt to park on the gate we turned on all the aircraft lights (landing; turnoff; ect.) and were again cut off by another baggage cart rushing thru the ramp area.The engines were then shut down and an aircraft tow was called for and received. When the tow was about 50 feet or so coming toward us; another baggage cart cut between the tow and us. This vehicle disappeared under our nose as they passed and were not visible - we estimate they crossed 10 feet or less in front of us. The tow to the gate was uneventful. Ramp control was asked if the video tapes for this event could be marked and saved. Vehicle traffic on the ramp near aircraft needs to be better controlled/policed at DFW.
B737 Captain reported being cut off by numerous vehicles on the ramp in DFW while taxiing to the gate.