Intermodal connectivity in Europe, an empirical exploration

In this paper we analyse the intermodal connectivity in Europe. The empirical analysis is to our knowledge the first empirical analysis of intermodal connections, and is based on a comprehensive database of intermodal connections in Europe. The paper focuses on rail and barge services, as they are the backbone of intermodal freight transport chains. The empirical analysis reveals that rail and barge are complementary, in the sense that the number of overlapping origin-destination pairs is limited and barge connections are across relatively short distances, while rail generally is used for larger transport distances. In addition the lowest transport distances of rail and barge services are relatively low. Services over short distances are feasible, especially between ports and for mountain crossings. For port-to- hinterland services, various services cover distances below 100 km. This paper provides a first indication (albeit no conclusive evidence) that a higher competition intensity between rail operators in a port may lower the distance of the shortest rail service. The analysis also reveals service frequencies are on average very substantial: around four services per week. These frequencies diminish with the distance of the service. These insights are valuable for companies involved in developing new services and provide a basis for further research.