A review is presented of current evolutions in logistics operations taking account of changing production and distribution requirements as well as the impacts of developing information technology and telecommunications on road freight transport operations and strategies. The solution of the problems and challenges confronting both road freight transport operations and the logistics chain, lies in the wide application of advanced technologies to enhance the capacity of road transport systems and thus the economic efficiency of the transport sector as a whole. The study was started in December 1989 by a Scientific Expert Group of the OECD Road Transport Research Programme with the objective of evaluating current practices in road freight transport operation and the impacts of the increased use of advanced logistics on the reorganisation of the transport sector, traffic management and the future implications for road infrastructure planning. The report provides functional and operational information for the road freight industry and governmental agencies to improve the overall productivity and quality of service of the transport sector, benefitting from coordination and integration of advanced technology, based equipment and communication systems.
Abstract