Approach

The BE LOGIC objectives will be achieved following an approach structured on 3 different points of view:

Viewpoint from the policy makers
The viewpoint of the policy maker is important. European policy makers have a major influence on shaping the right framework conditions for efficient and sustainable transport logistics in Europe. The policy benchmark will provide clear recommendations on how policies could be improved and become more effective in reaching their objectives.

Viewpoint from transport chains
The transport chain point of view is crucial for the shipper demanding logistics transport services. The shipper is not interested in optimisation of pieces of the transport chain, but in cheap, qualitative and reliable door-to-door transport. Since an efficient transport chain requires efficiency of different transport operators in complex intermodal transport chains, the internal efficiency of service providers is also relevant. However, an individual operator will strive for a high fleet utilisation, which might lead to accepting transport orders without return freight, thus not contributing to a high occupancy rate of the transport means. In many cases however, the efficient performance of transport service providers also benefits their customers. If this is not the case, the benchmark methodology will clearly distinguish between these two user groups.

Viewpoint from transhipment points (terminals)
The transhipment points are crucial elements in intermodal transport chains and require specific attention. Inland terminals benefit from a strategic position in Europe’s hinterland, representing important nodal points located along the main corridors and industrial areas in the EU. As typical nodal points for freight, intermodal terminals and inland ports are very attentive to conditions that should ensure good connections between the different transport modes. Some terminals are acting as public service ports, purely financed by regional or local authorities (e.g. Port Autonome de Strasbourg), other ports are purely commercial driven. Transhipment points are also crucial elements in transport chains from the safety and security point of view (e.g. in the new Regulation 1875/2006 on Supply Chain Security). These typical characteristics require a dedicated benchmark approach from the point of view of intermodal terminals.