Transport/Logistics

Modal shift

Modal shift is the transition of freight or passenger transport from one mode of transport to another, typically from a high-emission transport mode (like road or air) to a lower-emission transport mode (like rail or sea).

What are common examples of modal shift?

Examples of modal shift include:

  • Moving goods from long-haul trucks to rail freight
  • Replacing road freight with barge or inland waterway transport
  • Switching from air cargo to short-sea shipping or rail for intra-European routes

What are the benefits of modal shift?

The benefits of modal shift include:

  • Lower CO₂ emissions by using more energy-efficient transport modes
  • Reduced road congestion and infrastructure wear
  • Cost savings for high-volume or long-distance shipments
  • Improved supply chain resilience, especially in multimodal logistics networks

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