Recent Developments with Single Wagon Load Services, Policy and Practice in Europe

This research aims to gain an understanding of how Single Wagonload (SWL) services, policy and practice can benefit from the implementation of scientific methods and information technologies. For the purposes of this research a discussion on EU rail freight transport and current SWL trends is presented. An evaluation of EU rail freight policy is offered, followed by a discussion on policy measures to assist SWL growth. A review of scientific methods and models for rail freight planning is also presented that concludes that there is a need to update freight planning models in order to better support decisions for effective rail freight services and address current rail freight needs. An overview of information technology available for SWL is offered as well that suggests that it is possible for information communication technologies (ICT) implementation to benefit SWL operations, namely the level of efficiency. A lack of standards and integration should be addressed, however, in order for SWL and rail freight in Europe to gain further benefits.