HIGH-SPEED FREIGHT TRANSPORT: FIRST STEPS TOWARDS INTRA-EUROPEAN HIGH SPEED FREIGHT TRANSPORT BY RAIL

A study is presented of the possibility of developing the high-speed transport of freight as a result of the development of a trans-European high-speed rail network. Several aspects of this potential future freight market are important. On the demand side, new logistics strategies and structures need to be developed. Relevant market segments include intra-European transport of goods by air, express transport with 2-4 days delivery times, and the market for international road transport of high-value goods and perishable goods. On the supply side, there are several criteria for locating a high-speed rail freight terminal, and dedicated shuttle trains and a radial network seem preferable. The concept of Trans-European Rail Freight Freeways (TERFF) makes it possible to create high-speed rail freight services in transport corridors. With respect to regulations, European Union (EU) Guideline 91/440 was intended to define policies for future rail transport, and 'complete liberalisation' would lead to the most favourable position, although it seems unlikely to be established soon. High-speed rail freight transport could contribute to the relief of severe environmental and congestion problems in certain parts of Europe, by shifting much cargo from roads. Some further actions to be taken are recommended. For the covering abstract, see IRRD 898133.