An essential aspect of the movement of goods is the routes taken by the transportation modes. These routes need to have adequate capacity, and it is important to understand that the capacity of these routes is not unlimited. Sectional capacity is an area that depends on the geometries of the route. Be that by rail, road, sea and air.
It is essential, therefore, that there is an understanding of the difference between:
- Typical transit time under normal conditions;
- Average transit time under abnormal conditions;
- Optimal transit time;
- Most optimistic transit time;
- Most pessimistic transit time; and
- Desirable transit time.
Route optimisation can be achieved with the use of models to describe the transport network that needs to be planned. A model scopes the overall system, ensuring all factors are included, such as regulations or likely congestion problems that may cause delays. A model can then be used to determine the optimal route and estimate the likely transit time for deliveries.