The competitiveness of freight delivery services by rail

Abstract

The chapter examines the problems, necessity, and objectives of designing the development of freight transport by rail in the context of the European Union. The main development directions and measures are presented, and the fundamental disturbances that hinder the development and integration of the international railway network are described. The representatives of the railway freight authorities coordinating the design of the development, financing, the implementation of innovative solutions are described. An example of one of the most significant projects for the development of freight transport by rail, the course of its performance, is given. The cost-benefit method calculates the projected socio-economic benefits, revealed financing sources, and activities’ future financial results. The main directions of digitalization of development, which affect operational efficiency and increased competitiveness, are described. After studying the theoretical and practical aspects of the design of the development of freight transport by rail, the conclusions and recommendations are presented.