Chapter 8, Problem 4SQ

In the railroad sector, what is the difference between intramodal and intermodal competition? Which type of competition benefits shippers the most? What is the reason for this?

Discuss how transportation professionals are deploying technology in their quest to minimize freight theft.

What is a closed-loop transportation scheme, and how does it work? Why is it essential to have dedicated or contracted transportation carriers in such a system?

Technology often offers the potential of improving efficiency and effectiveness of transportation companies, but water carrier do not appear to have applied much new technology to improve their service. What impediments slow technological progress in the water carrier industry?

The typical pipeline company has high fixed costs. What economic factors account for this situation? What special problems does this present?

Railroads no longer dominate the freight transportation market, but they still lead the market in terms of freight ton-miles. What factors contribute to their leadership in this area? Why is their share of the total expenditures for freightmovement so small if they lead in freight ton-miles?

A6 In 2-3 paragraphs, please answer the following question from your textbook: While improved transportation systems provide economic benefits, there may be some associated environmental costs. What are the major environmental costs associated with transport systems and what are their potential negative impacts?

Consider how multimodal network models might be used in transportation planning operations for the products. How can details concerning products or would or would not utilize multimodal transportation?

Explain the terms "disruptions" and "risks" when they relate to transportation. What are the financial and service implications of them?