Experiences of rail intermodal freight transport for low-density high value (LDHV) goods in Europe

Abstract

Objective: Previous studies have suggested an upward growth trend in low density, high value (LDHV) goods in Europe. Such goods require time sensitive, reliable services and currently, most LDHV goods are transported by road. The paper presents the findings of four case studies which detail the barriers and enablers to intermodal rail services for transporting LDHV goods. Methodology: We applied a methodological pluralism, quantitative and qualitative, on an inductive basis. Using a case study approach, the research investigates the requirements of shippers, identifies key barriers to intermodal rail service offerings and, based on the findings, suggests enablers for intermodal rail freight transport. The current research applies parallel top down and bottom up streams, with a final integration synthesis. Findings: Terminals may appear as an important barrier or enabler towards achieving a competitive intermodal rail service. By making rail terminal as an enabler, the research suggests that it is possible to carry LDHV goods by intermodal rail in a cost-efficient manner. The research attempts to seek a potential innovative solution to the barriers identified. The research compares road with an intermodal railroad solution, in terms of cost and time, for a door-to-door service along the selected routes/corridors. Recommendation: The research recommends that technical solutions, such as automated transhipment and temperature controlled systems, are required for rail freight services for LDHV goods, but that they must be complemented by collaborative operational solutions and viable service planning for an intermodal rail transport service to be reliable and competitive with road transport.

System analysis of a high-speed freight train terminal

“…There are only a few publications investigating intermodal terminals for high-speed rail cargo, e.g. [11], [25] and [26], and none of them applies methods of system analysis to specify the requirements and functions of the terminal. However, they all confirm the need for high-speed freight transport and at the same time they consider the terminal to be an important factor in achieving a competitive intermodal rail service.…”

“…The results found in the literature are generally consistent with the main requirements of our analysis. For example [11] recommends that technical solutions, such as automated transshipment and temperature controlled systems, are required for rail freight services for LDHV goods. Furthermore it is found in [11], that these technologies must be complemented by collaborative operational solutions and viable duty scheduling for an intermodal terminal.…”

“…To increase the share of freight transport on rail the competitiveness of the SWL needs to be improved [10]. This requires new concepts that enable competitive shipment of LDHV goods for rail freight transport [11].…”

Quality and Delivery Costs of Wood Chips by Railway vs. Road Transport

“…This was associated with the high moisture content in biomass in this period, with a lower amount of energy transported per single truck transport. Moreover, railway transport does not respond dynamically to an increase in fossil fuel prices or labour costs, making it a more stable transport option than road transport [34].…”

Capabilities of a Periodic Containerised Railfreight System in Germany

“…[18] p.41). However, the limited terminal quality and transshipment performance is a decisive barrier [26]. In terms of intermodal terminals, there is already a dense network in Germany.…”