Is it complicated? Hell yes! Toss air freight into the mix and it gets even worse.
“Is it complicated? Hell yes! Toss air freight into the mix and it gets even worse.”
At least you see the whole spectrum of shipping. Most people just knee jerk scream Get Rid Of Trucks because they inconvenience their vacation or daily commute.
The modern Just In Time inventory system used by most businesses would also have to be revamped to accommodate the truck reduction most people want.
As a former truck driver I wish there had been truck only routes the last few years. Hell, I would have paid reasonable tolls to drive on truck only highways.
Each segment of the transportation bidness has it’s role to play.
On loads that are less time sensitive and are non-perishable rail has a strong hand to play.
On time sensitive and perishable loads trucks rule.
On the few times I picked up a load at a rail yard I found the rail workers arrogant union a@@holes that did a minimum of work.
I’ve pulled meat from the Midwest, produce from the west and south, cheese from Wisconsin, chocolate from PA, you name it and I’ve hauled it.
Even shoes out of Florida.
I’ve hauled government loads where the only thing I knew was the time and place of pick up.
The military escort would give me the route and fuel stops after loading.
It was a hoot and I still miss it.