Feasibility and optimization of freight-on-transit schemes for the sustainable operation of passengers and logistics

The integration of passengers and cargo flows is a promising strategy to reduce negative externalities and improve the operational and environmental performances of first-last mile transport and logistics. This is supported by the recent increase in just-in-time and fragmented deliveries, as well as technological advancements in transport and logistics. In this study, we investigate the financial and operational conditions under which an integrated system can be used instead of performing conventional independent passenger transport and freight deliveries to achieve the goal of reducing freight vehicle-km and -consequently-the associated environmental impact. We propose the generalization of a multi-commodity network design problem model to address customer and policymaker preferences simultaneously for the implementation of a freight-on-transit (FOT) system. We test the model in a cross-border area between Italy and Slovenia and propose a sensitivity analysis based on several scenarios that can simulate the preferences of stakeholders under different conditions. The results show that FOT can yield considerable benefits in terms of meeting freight transport demand if it is supported by adequate policies and technologies. Furthermore, political and stakeholder engagement plays a relevant role in the success of FOT initiatives, which are aimed at utilizing transportation services and include the reduction of transport-related externalities and, more generally, the environmental and social impacts of mobility