A comparative assessment of freight transport and logistics policies in Europe

The objective of this paper is to provide a comparison between EU and National (Member States) freight transport policies. Emphasis is given to policies aiming to increase co-modality and promote the sustainability of the European Freight Transport System. The results suggest that the intended Member States' policies to a great extent are aligned with the corresponding EU policies although the degree of alignment varies among Member States and freight transport policy areas. Infrastructure investments and differences among countries in relation to transport taxes, vehicle weights, and dimensions were identified as major barriers for the development of a European Co-Modal Freight Transport System. Policies towards removing existing barriers along with standardization actions, e.g., single transport document, enhancement of the training of the freight transport and logistics personnel, and further adoption and implementation of ICT, can substantially improve the competitive position of European intermodal freight systems. (C) 2012 Published by Elsevier Ltd. Selection and/or peer review under responsibility of the Programme Committee of the Transport Research Arena 2012