ABSTRACT
This chapter draws together the threads and assesses the implications of container transport for those concerned with port, inland clearance, groupage and freightliner depot planning, as well as its effect on the locational decisions of manufacturing and wholesaling firms. It presents an analysis of the role of ports in national and regional planning. The chapter discusses the role of central government in controlling the freight transportation environment. It evaluates the role of container transport in regional policy and in economic activity. In the case of container transport, shipping lines have concerned themselves with the complete door-to-door movement of consignments, which has removed some of the uncertainty from the process. With transport terminals sited, distribution and manufacturing activities should be able to locate anywhere within the central belt without suffering any particular disadvantage with regard to access to transport services.
