Competition between the ports of North-western Europe to enhance their position in the hinterland transport is strong. Especially in the competition between the Benelux and the German seaports, freight rates play an important role. It is well-known that the German seaports rely heavily on rail transport and, in order to reinforce their position, manipulate their rail freight rates. It must be assumed therefore, that rail freight rates for transport from German ports are more attractive compared to rail transport from Benelux ports. In this article this presumed price disadvantage for Rotterdam is clarified and evaluated. The scale and scope of this price distortion is described and considered against the background of an European transport policy in which a greater role for rail in freight transport is envisaged.
Abstract