Purpose The purpose of this study is to evaluate the progress and scholarly contributions concerning the effects of COVID-19 on transportation. Design/methodology/approach Using the SCOPUS database, an analysis was conducted on the output of 733 studies concerning COVID-19 and transportation from 2020 to 2022. Bibliometric visualization techniques were performed, which included funding sponsors, top-cited documents, top journals, top countries, co-authorship of authors, co-citation of authors and keyword analysis. Findings This study presents diverse findings encompassing influential authors, predominant countries, prominent journals, pivotal papers, funding institutions and affiliations engaged in COVID-19 and transportation research. The research offers a comprehensive assessment of the field’s advancement, addressing existing gaps within the context of limited pertinent literature. Practical implications These practical implications highlight how the taxonomical study using bibliometric visualization can inform various aspects of research, policy, practice and decision-making related to COVID-19 and transportation. Originality/value The study uses bibliometric visualization techniques to provide a comprehensive overview of existing literature and research trends in COVID-19 and transportation. Its taxonomical approach categorizes the literature systematically, enhancing its originality. The comprehensive analysis contributes to understanding the research landscape, while visualization uncovers new insights. Overall, the study’s unique focus, visualization techniques, taxonomical approach and comprehensive analysis offer originality and potential for new insights in this field.