A Study of Multimode Express Shipping

摘要

Marine craft available to satisfy a high speed criterion of 40 knots were surveyed. Performance data were collected and evaluated. Using Froude scaling, theoretical performance factors were estimated for each type craft - assuming a common carrying capacity of 1000 long tons and minimum 40 knots speed. Potential market applications were identified. Offshore supply, law enforcement, commuter ferry, military and freight service were considered. Opportunities were identified in both international and domestic trades, based on an analysis of commodity flows and opportunities for express freight service. Case studies were then made of multimode craft in selected international and domestic applications. Three international routes and five domestic routes were studied. The analysis addressed characteristics of cargo, competing carrier rates and service, and route alternatives. The economics of these high speed craft on each route were calculated, using a financial modeling process. The analysis indicated which type of craft was potentially competitive on each route. Prior attempts to introduce high speed craft in U.S. service were described. Reasons for success or failure were identified.