Rail efficiency gains analysis
North Carolina (NC) State University has partnered with Railinc to examine how targeted modal rebalancing can improve freight efficiency in the United States. Using big data analytics, the study focuses on identifying long-haul shipments that could be transferred from truck to rail while lowering transport costs and emissions.
The early assesment of the research suggests that even limited changes could have a measurable impact. Initial findings indicate that a two percent shift of freight from road to rail could significantly increase intermodal rail volumes and help support future infrastructure investments according to Dr. George List, nationally recognized university professor at NC State. "This research helps identify where rebalancing is not only possible but practical—creating pathways for more resilient supply chains and stronger communities," stated Dr. Daniel J. Findley, Associate Director at NC State’s Institute for Transportation Research and Education.