Transport and logistics presents a very interesting topic for concerned academicians. What is even more important are the underlying factors that define the transport and logistics systems in different regions of the world. Ideally, every region in the world is specific on the type of transportation system used for various purposes. In consideration of the freight transportation systems of different regions, it is prudent to consider that many things affect the differences in their systems. The most significant factor being geography, which makes a certain transportation mode favorable in a given geographic region (Rodrigue & Notteboom, 2010). There are other factors that are as much significant as the latter and prove to be influential in the creation of the different freight transportation system.
Scholars have been very interested on the natural difference occurring in the freight transportation systems of Europe and North America. These two geographical regions display great differences and sometimes similarities in their freight transportation systems (Rodrigue & Notteboom, 2010). Essentially, Europe and North America have different geographical attributes and as such their preference on one mode of transportation as opposed to another is quite understandable.
However, apart from the differences in their geographies, the two regions display a significant difference in their formulation of rules and regulations that direct the development of the freight transportations systems. These differences occur in the process by which the rules and regulations are made (Rodrigue & Notteboom, 2010). Moreover, more significant factors, such as the ownership of infrastructure, also affect the freight transportation system significantly. These differences have been seen to have growing implications on the globalization of trade and global policies on freight transportation. There is a limited body of research on this matter. Further research needs to be conducted to better understand the impact of the similarities and difference of freight transportation systems on global policies and globalization of trade.
- Rodrigue, J. P., & Notteboom, T. (2010). Comparative North American and European gateway logistics: the regionalism of freight distribution. Journal of Transport Geography, 18(4), 497-507.
