CA-CHAINS Customer and Agent Initiated Intermodal Transport Chains (ERA-NET)

The research within project 'Customer and Agent Initiated Transport Chains' focus two new evolving segments for intermodal transport in Europe, customer and agent initiated intermodal transport chains. These segments represent a high market potential for intermodal transport and it is vital that new knowledge can be created that represent all the special characteristics of these two segments. The most critical barrier to the exploitation of the potential of the two segments is lack of knowledge in organi sational, market, operational and technological dimensions of how to initiate and design processes for transport system development and realisation. The purpose of our research proposal is to create such knowledge. In terms of method, action research will be used where possible. This means that the researcher will make contribute to transport system development and create general scientific knowledge at the same time. This knowledge is a necessary platform for analyses and development of efficient trans port systems for the two segments for all analysts and decision makers in the sector such as public transport policy makers and analysts, private company strategists from carrier as well as shipper companies, and also for the academic sector as regards e ducation and continued research and development. In summary, the ultimate aim of our proposed research is the production of new knowledge of high relevance for all parties involved in intermodal transport. Such knowledge is important for all countries and regions in Europe, particularly in regions where transport economies of scale is difficult to bring about in intermodal transport such as countries participating the ERA-NET.