Modelling Freight Transport

Freight Transport Modelling is a unique new reference book that provides insight into the state-of-the-art of freight modelling. Focusing on models used to support public transport policy analysis, Freight Transport Modelling systematically introduces the latest freight transport modelling approaches and describes the main methods and techniques used to arrive at operational models.

As freight transport has grown exponentially in recent decades, policymakers now need to include freight flows in quantitative evaluations of transport systems. Whereas early freight modelling practice was inspired by passenger transport models, by now it has developed its separate stream of methods and techniques inspired by disciplines such as economic geography and supply chain management.

Besides summarizing the latest achievements in fundamental research, this book describes the state of practice and advises practitioners on how to cope with typical challenges such as limitations in data availability.

• Uniquely focused book exploring the key issues and logistics of freight transport modelling
• Highlights the latest approaches and describes the main methods and techniques used to arrive at operational models
• Summarizes fundamental research into freight transport modeling, as well as current practices and advice for practitioners facing day-to-day challenges

Researchers, practitioners and students working on freight modelling

List of Contributors

1. Introduction

1.1 Background and Objectives

1.2 Conceptual Framework for Freight Decisions

1.3 Freight Models – Theoretical Perspective of the Book

1.4 Freight Models – Practical Perspectives Addressed

1.5 Organisation of This Volume

References

2. Modelling Inter-Regional Freight Demand with Input–Output, Gravity and SCGE Methodologies

2.1 Introduction

2.2 State-of-the-Art in of Inter-Regional Freight Demand Modelling

2.3 Forecasting Inter-Regional Trade Using Gravity

2.4 Multi-Regional I/O Framework

2.5 Spatial General Equilibrium Models and NEG Effects

2.6 Conclusions and Ideas for Further Research

References

Suggestions for Further Reading

3. Freight Generation and Freight Trip Generation Models

3.1 Introduction

3.2 Literature Review

3.3 Logistical Interpretation of FG/FTG

3.4 Factors to Take into Account when Estimating or Applying FG and FTG

3.5 Case Study: FTG in the New York City Metropolitan Area

3.6 Conclusion

References

4. Distribution Structures

4.1 Introduction

4.2 The Micro Level

4.3 From Micro to Macro Level

4.4 Conclusion

References

5. Inventory Theory and Freight Transport Modelling

5.1 Inventory Theory

5.2 Microeconomics of Logistics and Freight Transport

5.3 Databases

5.4 The Econometrics of Freight Mode Choice and Shipment Size

5.5 Perspectives for Simulation

References

6. Mode Choice Models

6.1 Introduction

6.2 The Disaggregate Mode Choice Theory

6.3 Practical Examples

References

7. Vehicle-Trip Estimation Models

7.1 Introduction

7.2 Estimation of Loaded Trips

7.3 Estimation of Empty Trips

7.4 Concluding Remarks

References

8. Urban Freight Models

8.1 Introduction

8.2 Push Models of Urban Freight

8.3 Pull Models for Urban Freight

8.4 Emerging Modelling Approaches

8.5 Conclusions

Acknowledgements

References

9. Freight Service Valuation and Elasticities

9.1 Introduction

9.2 Freight Service Valuation

9.3 Freight Transport Elasticities

References

10. Data Availability and Model Form

10.1 Introduction

10.2 Overview of Different Data Sources for Freight Transport Modelling

10.3 Which Data Sources Can Be Used in Which Type of Model?

10.4 Discussion on Data Availability and Model Form

10.5 Dealing with Data Limitations Through Estimation

10.6 Concluding Remarks

References

11. Comprehensive Versus Simplified Models

11.1 Introduction

11.2 High- and Low-Resolution Models

11.3 Model Objectives and Policy Questions and Their Impact on Model Form

11.4 Approaches for Simplification

11.5 Concluding Remarks on Comprehensive Versus Simplified Models

References