Rail transportation is considered to be an environmentally friendly option as trains burn less fuel per ton-mile than road vehicles. A train can have as many as 100 wagons but only needs one driver making it cost effective. However, at each end of rail transit, frequently a road delivery is required which adds additional time and cost.
Table 4 identifies the strengths and weaknesses of rail transportation:
| Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|
| Faster average speeds | Must be supported by other modes of transport to carry out transfers to and from train stations |
| Links city centre to city centre | Inflexible in that trains can only run at certain times due to track availability |
| More environmentally friendly – less fuel per ton-mile than road | Not cost-effective for short journeys |
| Most efficient form of land transportation | |
| Bulk handling capacity | |
| Good safety record | |
| Reliable transit times and schedules | |
| Scope for automation (driverless trains) | |
| Minimal disruption in poor weather conditions | |
| Cost-effective over long distances | |
| Alleviates road congestion and emissions |
Table 4: The Strengths and Weaknesses of Rail Transport
Movement of goods by rail is controlled through the use of rail waybill. The rail waybill is a document containing instructions to the railway company for handling, dispatching and delivering consignments.
The mode of transport used frequently depends on the type of freight and distance to be covered. Figure 2 identifies the most appropriate modes of transport for each situation.
Figure 2: Most Appropriate Modes of Transport