A procedure is described for analyzing Reebie Transearch data to create a commodity flow database that is useful for transportation planning purposes. Several elements of the procedure were recently applied as part of the development of a commodity flow database for the Portland metropolitan area. The procedure begins with an overview of the robustness of various Transearch data elements. For less robust data elements, specific processes are described to improve on the Transearch data. This process generally includes acquiring additional data from federal and state agencies, acquiring additional information from primary industry sources, and applying these data to the geographic area of concern for the commodity flow database. A methodology for estimating the commodity distribution for goods movement that originates in warehouses and distribution centers is also described. Supplemental freight data sources are identified, and elements of these data sources that can be used to verify and refine the Transearch data are highlighted. In the case of discrepancies between the Transearch data and other freight data sources, a process is described to determine potential sources of the discrepancy and further improve on the Transearch data toward the creation of a full commodity flow database.
Abstract