Transport Logistics

2.2.3. Contributing to modal shift and intermodal transport

Developments in logistics and transport technology have the potential to increase the

competitiveness of intermodal transport.

New developments in vehicle and handling technology have the capacity to reduce the operating

costs of different modes of freight transport and bring about a change in the pattern of traffic flows.

For example, the introduction of fast ferries on short sea routes within Europe is opening up

competition to established long-distance truck services following these routes. Similarly, rail provides

shippers with the opportunity to operate a rolling inventory along key corridors using distribution

points to redirect products on demand.

The application of ICT in supply chains enables information on transport orders and shipments to

be made available at an early stage. This means that transit times of transport operations can be better

managed, thus creating new transport opportunities, including intermodal transport, which were not

feasible before.

Efficient information technology has reduced processing time and cost and created seamless

links, thereby facilitating intermodal transport. Third party companies have developed services that

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link the various modal systems. The use of ICT to identify and track cargo has been significantly

applied to intermodal operations. Improvements in intermodal transportation through the application

of ICT and ITS have promoted the concept of just-in-time inventory management and delivery. These

improvements all increase the efficiency of intermodal transport.