This article provides a cost-benefit analysis of the use of satellite communication in road freight operations. It focuses on pilot studies undertaken as part of the METAFORA project. A description of the SATCOM pilot studies is provided first. Data provided include: a) the freight companies taking part; b) country of origin of the companies; and c) their most frequent destination. The satellite links used are also described briefly, as are the number of messages per vehicle sent per day, and the average cost of each transmission. The financial cost benefit analysis covers such data as: a) initial investment costs; b) annual running costs; and c) annual savings. Preliminary results of a socio-economic cost benefit analysis are also presented.
Abstract