Given a decrease in rail passengers are smaller packages the answer

The latest light logistics ideas propose that the sharp decline in commuter passenger traffic is an opportunity the parcel delivery industry has been waiting for. A new report from the Rail Infrastructure Group published on Tuesday 25 May looks at how the existing rail network could be used to facilitate a faster and more sustainable way of delivering smaller and medium-sized parcels.

A study by the Rail Innovation Group suggests that passenger cars and sidings could be converted into a cost-effective form of rail freight. This new method could provide an efficient way to move small packages from point A to point B, especially when you factor in the high costs normally associated with shipping via truck. The idea came to light when the RIG was surveying its members on how they were losing business to road transport. Many were losing out due to their inability to deliver products faster than their competitors and taking advantage of rising fuel prices would offer them a competitive edge over rival companies. There are however many challenges for operators if these changes are going to get off the ground as it's unclear where extra financial support will come from, there is also strong resistance from unions worried about job losses among existing employees and other groups fearing disruption from industrial action.

Speedier By Rail

As logistics companies exploit the central location of mainline stations, customers can already pick up and deliver parcels at stations. RIG points out, however, that rail routes have the potential to be faster than the road network for long distances. In addition to this, they suggest using e-cargo bikes at each endpoint for last-mile delivery in cities and towns. In some regions of the country, however, this has already been done, notably by InterCity Railfreight. The company believes it could be expanded to the entire rail system.

Attaining net-zero

A few keys to achieving net-zero targets include “rail”, a transit system for moving cargo and passengers, according to Alan Braithwaite, Chairman at The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport. Freight is an important part of this system to connect the transport of people and products because it relies on innovation within the logistics industry. Railports will require innovative steps toward making new transportation networks that benefit both cities and their citizens as well as serving customers. The company's new CEO, Phil Read, plans to take Varamis to the next level and make it the spine of the parcel and light goods delivery network in the UK

The Rail Innovation Group is an independent association that promotes new methods of doing things in the rail industry. RIG has produced a report, entitled 'Parcels as Passengers,' which details how productive use could be made of surplus passenger carriages and unused lines to support a new model of light logistics and parcel delivery operations, which was almost entirely lost to the rail freight industry in the 1990s. Market leaders are seeking to turn niche operations into big business in years to come.

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