Freight Transport Modeling

To effectively plan for the movement of goods, it's essential to understand and predict future freight growth, technological advancements, freight movement regulations, and the transportation system's response to these changes. Therefore, freight transport models hold significant importance in transportation planning.

Freight transport modeling encompasses distribution of goods, disposal of waste, and provision of services.

Freight modeling differs significantly from passenger transportation modeling. Freight modeling introduces the concept of an orders matrix, which is the direct result of the demand and supply of goods between industries. The trip matrix, then, represents the trips generated to deliver these orders, accounting for consolidation, touring, and backhaul services.

The type of commodity is a pivotal factor in carrier mode choice, which is also called the delivery concept. For large-scale freight movements (usually beyond urban models), intermodal connections also influence this choice.

The cost function extends beyond just route costs and includes cargo-related expenses like loading, insurance, storage and potential damage.

The scope of a freight model (time periods and modes, etc.) is largely determined by the geographical area it covers. Depending on the scope, a freight model can serve as a component within a broader transportation model.