Comparison Framework for Freight Modes. An instrument for the comparison of modes and chains in freight transport. This paper describes the 'Comparison Framework for Freight Modes', an instrument to compare freight modes and freight transport chains with several indicators. The instrument comprises a database, a model and an user interface. The database is the core of the instrument. It contains (per mode and segment) indicators for transport, economy and sustainability .The modes included in the instrument are: road, inland waterways, rail, short sea, air and pipelining. The segments are: container, neo bulk, liquid bulk and dry bulk. These segments are furthermore distinguished in domestic (Netherlands) and international relations. The starting point of the model is a mode or chain, and an amount of tonnes to be transported. This input is given by the user. The model than estimates the total (social) costs per mode or chain, using the user input and the indicators in the database. The possibilities to use the instrument are abundant: for example underpinning modal shift policies or pricing policies, first order estimation of cost-benefit analyses, support for other freight transport models, and studies into transport chains. (Author/publisher)
Abstract