Developing a toolkit to assist in the decision-making process of logistics service providers to shift to the use of bimodal transport in South Africa

Abstract

This paper seeks to contribute to research on the use of bimodal technology in South Africa through developing a toolkit that allows Logistics Service Providers (LSPs) to conduct investigations into the financial and practical suitability of the RailRunner bimodal technology for use in their business.The toolkit was developed by investigating the road-to-rail industry, by constructing a preliminary toolkit from inputs gained through literature and exploratory interviews. This included selection criteria for LSPs and a financial model for comparing operating costs of existing and alternative transport systems. A decision matrix was developed to assist LSPs towards analysing different transport methods. Validation interviews were conducted to confirm the validity and usefulness of the finalised toolkit.Preliminary results show that RailRunner would have to make sure that the reliability of their system is equal to or better than that of road transport alone. LSPs must also note that the RailRunner system is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Many factors need to be considered in the decision to use the system.The outcome achieved will benefit LSPs to make informed decisions regarding the implementation of bimodal technology and provides a foundation for future research into the systemic nature of implementing bimodal systems in South Africa.