Investigation of Truck Size and Weight Limits Technical Supplement. Volume 7. Carrier, Market and Regional Cost and Energy Tradeoffs. Part II - Appendix E

摘要

Appendix E is a technical letter report, prepared under contract and incorporated into Technical Supplement Volume 7, addressing only one aspect of the Western Doubles issue - the improvement in service quality and reduced freight rates allegedly attributable to the use of twin 27 foot trailer combinations in markets where they are permitted. This appendix contains a comprehensive description of the use of Western Doubles in carrier operations, as well as the nature of the general commodity LTL markets and rate data pertinent to the overall Truck Size and Weight study. The contract's primary objective was to obtain factual information from within the physical distribution industry to balance the theory extant in the research community. Specifically the contract areas included: (1) which corridors were actually utilizing multiple trailers combinations; (2) how and why they were utilized in corridor operations; (3) what kinds of markets benefit from their use; (4) what is the character and magnitude of these benefits; and (5) what is the apparent effect on competitive services and rates.