Intermodal rail freight in Britain: a terminal problem?

Abstract

Rail has increased its share of the British freight market in the past decade. One particular growth market has been intermodal traffic, where consignments are carried in unit loads (i.e. containers and swap bodies): these accounted for one-fifth of rail freight volumes in 2006/07. In this paper, the key trends are identified, considering both port and domestic services. A critical component of the rail system in allowing further development is the availability and capability of rail terminals. An analysis of terminal provision has been conducted, examining the relationship between the development of intermodal terminals and service provision, and identifying the key challenges for the future.