ABSTRACT
This chapter presents a multimodal freight transportation model applied to the European networks of inland waterways, roads, railways and short-sea shipping lanes. It explains the methodology, which is based on the use of the Nodus software, and the cost functions linked to each transport operation. The chapter also presents the modal split estimated and the results of a sensitivity analysis on the cost parameters. It summarizes the main results and outlines some possible development of the research. The chapter describes the main results of an analysis on the efficient use of different modes of dry-bulk cargo transport between Benelux/Germany and Spain. The analysis of short-sea shipping itineraries has shown the strong complementarity of road and inland waterway transports with short-sea shipping. An analysis of the ton-km achieved by each mode showed the important role played by inland waterway transportation. It also produced estimates of elasticities more in line with usual expectations.
