Data Availability and Model Form

Data are essential for any empirical modelling effort. In freight transport, obtaining good data for modelling can be a challenge because of the difficulty to observe freight processes directly, the often proprietary nature of logistics data, and a relatively poor data acquisition infrastructure. In this chapter we review the different data sources for freight modelling, including data for trade, logistics and transport by different modes of transport. We discuss which sources can be used for which models. In every practical modelling situation, data limitations will remain. We discuss two main strategies to overcome them: adapting the model to a simplified form and estimating the missing data from the available information. The chapter concludes with listing some challenges for research into data acquisition for the future. © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.