Title: The modal shift potential of intermodal line-trains from a haulier's perspective: drivers and barriers in the mode choice process

Authors: Sönke Behrends

Addresses: Department of Technology Management of Economics, Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg, SE 41296, Sweden

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to identify drivers and barriers to the usage of intermodal line-trains in the hauliers' decision-making process, assuming viable line-train services exist. In a multiple case study, the operations of four hauliers contracted by two forwarders for the domestic transport of consolidated cargo in Sweden are assessed. The results indicate that hauliers face significant obstacles for outsourcing the long-distance haulage to rail. The main barriers are a vehicle fleet that is not adapted for rail, small transport volumes and congestion on terminal access roads. Hence, in the current industry structure the modal shift potential for consolidated cargo is limited. Alternative business models may be needed to reach transport volumes that allow efficient haulage operations, which in turn may lead to reduced business for road hauliers.

Keywords: case study; decision making; drayage; freight tansport; road hauliers; intermodal transport; intermodal line-trains; modal shift; pre-haulage; post haulage; Sweden; sustainable transport; drivers; barriers; mode choice; consolidated cargo; business models; rail freight; road freight.

DOI: 10.1504/WRITR.2015.076925

World Review of Intermodal Transportation Research, 2015 Vol.5 No.4, pp.369 - 386

Received: 02 Jul 2015
Accepted: 02 Feb 2016
Published online: 07 Jun 2016 *

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