Posts Tagged ‘freight’
Glasgow Tram Freighter Plan
Posted in Movements by Kate Archdeacon on April 16th, 2010
Source: Going Solar Transport Newsletter
“A new plan for sustainable transport in Glasgow includes a proposal to run trams in the city centre for freight as well as passengers. A similar scheme was attempted in Amsterdam (City Cargo) but failed last year, and the plan’s authors have suggested that this was because there were too few restrictions on road lorries in the Dutch capital to give trams a competitive edge. The plan, ‘Sustainable Glasgow‘, has been produced jointly by Glasgow City Council and the University of Strathclyde. It covers many environmental topics in a bid to deal with the effects of a changing climate, but its transport proposals include a city centre tramway linked to a dedicated bus route along the Clyde Waterfront which could also be later converted to light rail. It is, however, the suggestion that city centre trams could be used to replace lorries making deliveries which is unusual. Urban tramways have not been used to carry freight in Britain for many years, although the former Glasgow Corporation Tramways, which closed in 1962, were among those that did, sometimes using standard railway wagons. The report says: ‘The potential for a mixed use passenger and freight tram system in the centre of Glasgow should be explored. This would initially operate primarily in the pedestrianised areas of the city – thus reducing traffic disruption during the installation of the system, and providing a transport link between Queen Street and Central stations’.” Ref: Railnews (UK), 9/2/10
From Going Solar’s Transport Newsletter #149
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Intention-based Shipping
Posted in Models by Kate Archdeacon on October 12th, 2009
Source: Springwise
Image: anemoneprojectors via flickr CC
Shiply, which set up shop in 2008, is a free online marketplace where transport companies bid for listed shipments.
After creating an online account, consumers list what they need to ship and provide details about pickup, delivery and shipment dates. Anything from a pet carriage to a car can be listed. Transport providers then bid for the shipment, potentially turning unused space in their trucks into profit. Shiply’s system means that as companies try to outbid one another, users typically save about 75% on their shipping costs. Users can contribute and read feedback left by other customers, and accept the bid with which they feel happiest.
The company states that 25% of European lorries run completely empty. By filling up this space, Shiply makes sure trucks get extra cash for unused space, and saves consumers money. Of course, it’s hugely beneficial in terms of reducing carbon emissions and congestion, too. (Shiply was awarded a EUR 100,000 runner-up prize in this year’s Green Challenge).
Read the full article on Springwise.
Freight Systems: ChronoCity
Posted in Models, RDAG by Kate Archdeacon on November 26th, 2008
This information is part of research into case studies provided by Liz Boulton, Logistick, at the recent Sustainable Freight Seminar.
ChronoCity is a parcel-delivery service in Strasbourg that uses electric-powered handcarts for the routes through the inner-city, combining a consolidation hub with “clean” vehicle use.
Freight Systems: DHL Packstations
Posted in Models, RDAG by Kate Archdeacon on November 25th, 2008
This information is part of research into case studies provided by Liz Boulton, Logistick, at the recent Sustainable Freight Seminar.
DHL Packstations are a response to the changing needs of consumers. Recipients nominate where they would like to pick up parcels and over-sized letters, and retrieve the delivery from an automated booth after being notified by sms or email.
Freight Systems: Broadmead Freight Consolidation Scheme
Posted in Models, RDAG by Kate Archdeacon on November 24th, 2008
This information is part of research into case studies provided by Liz Boulton, Logistick, at the recent Sustainable Freight Seminar.
A successful pilot program has led to value-added service and efficiency measures, improving a freight-delivery system that already saves around 20,00km of vehicle travel.
Freight Systems: City Porto Consolidation Centre
Posted in Models, RDAG by Kate Archdeacon on November 19th, 2008
This information is part of research into case studies provided by Liz Boulton, Logistick, at the recent Sustainable Freight Seminar.
Consolidation centres and clean delivery vehicles are becoming more common in Italy. Many regions are passing laws introducing standards for the rationalisation of urban distribution of goods and the reduction of impacts on air quality.
Freight Systems: EuroTunnel Check-In System
Posted in Models, RDAG by Kate Archdeacon on November 18th, 2008
This information is part of research into case studies provided by Liz Boulton, Logistick, at the recent Sustainable Freight Seminar.
Business-driven innovation contributes to eco-footprint reduction and improved consumer experience.
Freight Systems: TriModal Ports
Posted in Models, RDAG by Kate Archdeacon on November 3rd, 2008
This information is part of research into case studies provided by Liz Boulton, Logistick, at the recent Sustainable Freight Seminar.
Trimodal seaport terminals in Germany are taking up to 400 truck consignments a day off the country’s congested roads and onto inland ships or railways.
Mode shift from barge+road to rail+barge+road has reduced congestion on the surrounding roads and improved the efficiency of moving high volumes of freight around Europe. Optimised IT services mean a reduction in wasted trips and queuing with engines running. Read the rest of this entry »