Motor Vehicle Emission Simulator 

(MOVES) 

User Guide for MOVES2014
EPA-420-B-14-055 

July 2014

Assessment and Standards Division 

Office of Transportation and Air Quality 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Motor Vehicle Emission Simulator 

(MOVES) 

User Guide for MOVES2014
Table of Contents 

1. Explore MOVES

Introduction ...................................................................................................... 1-2

MOVES Graphical User Interface (GUI) .................................................................. 1-3

MOVES Menu Items ............................................................................................ 1-4

 File Menu ........................................................................................................ 1-4

 Edit Menu ........................................................................................................ 1-8

 Pre Processing Menu ....................................................................................... 1-10

 Action Menu .................................................................................................. 1-12

 Post Processing Menu...................................................................................... 1-14

 Tools Menu .................................................................................................... 1-16

 Settings Menu ................................................................................................ 1-18

 Help Menu ..................................................................................................... 1-20

Navigation Panel .............................................................................................. 1-22

Description Panel ............................................................................................. 1-23

Scale Panel ..................................................................................................... 1-24

Time Spans Panel ............................................................................................. 1-25

Geographic Bounds Panel .................................................................................. 1-26

Vehicles/Equipment Panel .................................................................................. 1-27

Road Type Panel .............................................................................................. 1-31

Pollutants and Processes Panel ........................................................................... 1-33

Manage Input Data Sets Panel ........................................................................... 1-34

Strategies Panel ............................................................................................... 1-35

Output Panels .................................................................................................. 1-37

Advanced Performance Features Panel ................................................................ 1-41

2. Generate Inventories at the County Scale Level

Introduction ...................................................................................................... 2-2

Developing a County Scale MOVES RunSpec .......................................................... 2-3

Using the County Data Manager to Enter Local Data .............................................. 2-35

Using the County Data Manager: Database Tab .................................................... 2-38

Using the County Data Manager: Creating a Template ........................................... 2-41
   

Using the County Data Manager: Exporting Default Data ........................................ 2-44 

Viewing the Defaults and Entering Data ............................................................... 2-47

Using the County Data Manager: Importing Data .................................................. 2-47

Executing the RunSpec ..................................................................................... 2-54

3. Process MOVES Output

Introduction ...................................................................................................... 3-2

Exploring MOVES Output Tables ........................................................................... 3-2

Using the Post-Processing Menu: Run MySQL Script on Output Database .................... 3-3

Post-Processing Scripts List ................................................................................. 3-5

Post-Processing Scripts List: Project Scale Runs ...................................................... 3-5 

Using the Post-Processing Menu: Run MySQL Script on Nonroad Output Database ...... 3-6 

Nonroad Post-Processing Scripts List ..................................................................... 3-9 

Working with Output Databases in MySQL............................................................ 3-10

Copying and Sending MySQL Databases .............................................................. 3-10

4. Using the MOVES Custom Domain Option

Introduction ...................................................................................................... 4-2

Inputs for a Custom Domain Run .......................................................................... 4-2

Using Zone and Zoneroad Inputs .......................................................................... 4-7

5. Generate Emission Rates for County Scale Analyses

Introduction ...................................................................................................... 5-2

Understanding the Five Types of MOVES Rates ....................................................... 5-2

Creating a RunSpec for a Rates Run ...................................................................... 5-5

Developing Inputs for a Rates Run ...................................................................... 5-28

6. Using MOVES at the Project Scale 

Introduction ...................................................................................................... 6-2

Creating a Project Scale RunSpec ......................................................................... 6-3

Using the Project Data Manager ......................................................................... 6-30

Using the Project Data Manager: Database Tab .................................................... 6-33

Using the Project Data Manager: Creating a Template ........................................... 6-36

Using the Project Data Manager: Exporting Default Data ........................................ 6-39

Viewing Defaults and Entering Data .................................................................... 6-41 

Using the Project Data Manager: Importing Data .................................................. 6-42

Executing the RunSpec ..................................................................................... 6-49
US Environmental Protection Agency

7. Using MOVES-Nonroad

Introduction ...................................................................................................... 7-2

Creating a Nonroad RunSpec ............................................................................... 7-3

Appendix A. MOVES Onroad Decoder

MOVES Onroad Decoder .................................................................................... AA-2 

Appendix B. MOVES Quick Start Guide

Introduction .................................................................................................... AB-2 

Can I still run MOVES2010b if I've downloaded MOVES2014? ................................. AB-2 

How do I convert MOVES2010b databases into MOVES2014 format? ....................... AB-2 

What changes have been made to the MOVES GUI? .............................................. AB-2 

What changes have been made to MOVES inputs? ................................................ AB-3 
Chapter 1 

Explore MOVES
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Introduction 

MOVES is the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Motor Vehicle Emission 

Simulator. It helps the user to answer “what if” questions, such as, how would particulate 

matter emissions decrease in my state on a typical weekday if truck travel was reduced 

during rush hour, or how does the total hydrocarbon emission rate change if my fleet 

switches to gasoline from diesel fuel? The purpose of MOVES is to provide an accurate 

estimate of emissions from cars, trucks and non-highway mobile sources under a wide 

range of user-defined conditions. 

In the modeling process, the user specifies vehicle types, time periods, geographical areas, 

pollutants, vehicle operating characteristics, and road types to be modeled. The model then 

performs a series of calculations, which have been carefully developed to accurately reflect 

vehicle operating processes, such as cold start or extended idle, and provide estimates of 

bulk emissions or emission rates. Specifying the characteristics of the particular scenario to 

be modeled is done by creating a Run Specification, or RunSpec. 

In addition, the MOVES model includes a default database that summarizes emission 

relevant information for the entire United States. The MOVES team continually works to 

improve this database, but, for many uses, up-to-date local inputs will be more appropriate, 

especially for analyses supporting State Implementation Plans (SIPs) and conformity 

determinations. 

This user guide to the EPA’s MOVES2014 model provides an introduction to how to use the 

model to estimate air pollution emissions from cars, trucks and non-highway mobile 

sources. An appendix is provided for experienced MOVES2010 modelers that summarizes 

how to use features that are new in MOVES2014. A second appendix provides a “decoder” 

for some of the most important identifiers used in MOVES inputs and outputs. 

This guide is one of one of many documents available to help users of the model. The 

MOVES2014 User Interface Manual provides insight and best practices to various 

components of MOVES. The MOVES2014 Module Reference provides step-by-step 

module algorithms and module and database cross references. MOVES2014 Software 

Design and Reference Manual assists users with configuring and installing MOVES as well 

as discussing how MOVES works behind the GUI. These documents and training materials, 

and technical and policy guidance are available on the MOVES website, 

http://www.epa.gov/otaq/models/moves/index.htm. 

The first section of the MOVES user guide describes the MOVES Graphical User Interface 

(GUI) including menu items and the navigation panel. It uses an example of an Onroad 

National Scale run to demonstrate the MOVES GUI. This is an excellent place to start if 

you’re new to MOVES and unfamiliar with the GUI. 
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MOVES Graphical User Interface (GUI) 

To run MOVES, you must create a “Run Specification” (or RunSpec). This is an XML file that 

describes your choices for the model run. The MOVES GUI contains a Menu and a 

Navigation Panel both designed to help you complete the RunSpec.. 
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MOVES Menu Items 

Clicking on a Menu item reveals a drop-down menu from which you will select an action. 

File Menu 

1. Click File. 

 
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2. Once the drop-down menu is open, select any of the standard items. 

New will open a new RunSpec; 

Open will open an existing RunSpec; 

Close will close the current RunSpec; 

Save will save the current RunSpec without changing the filename; 

Save As will allow you to create a new RunSpec name and save; 

Print will print the XML version of the RunSpec. 

Note: When naming your RunSpec, we recommend including appropriate descriptive information such

as the type of run, geographic area, year or other information to distinguish from similar RunSpecs. Only

letters, numbers, and underscores (_) should be used. We suggest using a .mrs (“MOVES RunSpec”)

extension, e.g. NewYorkState_2009_GHG.mrs.

 
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3. If you’ve used MOVES before, you can also open a recent RunSpec (the most recent 

three are displayed). 

Note: Saved RunSpecs can be reloaded and run again or edited.  

 
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4. Click Exit to close MOVES. 

 
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Edit Menu 

1. Click Edit. 

 
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2. Once the drop-down menu is open, select any of the standard items. 

Cut will remove selected text and copy it to the clipboard; 

Copy will copy the selected text to the clipboard; 

Paste will input text cut/copied from the clipboard; 

Clear will remove the selected text. 

Note: These functions are only available in text entry sections of MOVES.
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Pre Processing Menu 

The Pre-Processing menu is used to select options for entering data in MOVES. These menu 

options are specific to the analysis scale selected in the Scale panel. Selecting one of these 

options opens a new screen that allows data to be entered in MOVES. 

1. Click Pre Processing. 

 
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2. Click Data Importer to enter data at the National Scale (optional); click County 

Data Manager to enter data at the County Scale (required); click Project Data 

Manager to enter data at the Project Scale (required). These three importers are 

relevant only for highway vehicle runs. 

Note: Local county or project level data are entered into MOVES after the completion of the RunSpec

and before MOVES is run.  Each data manager contains a template to ensure data is entered in the

correct format.
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Action Menu 

1. Click Action. 

 
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2. Click Execute to run MOVES once your RunSpec is created; 

Stop to stop a MOVES run in progress (can’t be resumed); 

Pause to pause a MOVES run in progress; 

Resume to resume a paused MOVES run; 

MOVES Run Error Log to display the error log for a selected output database. 

 
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Post Processing Menu 

1. Click Post Processing. 

 
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2. Click Run MySQL Script on Output Database to further process a MOVES output 

database using a set of MySQL scripts; click 

Run MySQL Script on Nonroad Output Database to further process a MOVES 

Nonroad output database using a set of MySQL scripts; 

Produce Summary Report to customize information contained in a MOVES output 

database; 

Produce State/County Map to display a MOVES output database in color or grayscaled maps. 

Note: These options are available only after a MOVES run has completed successfully.

 
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Tools Menu 

1. Click Tools. 

 
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2. Click Multiple RunSpec Creator to create a batch of similar MOVES runs; 

Process DONE Files if you’re an advanced user using MOVES in a network (not 

recommended for most users); 

Database Converter to convert a MOVES2010b input database into a MOVES2014 

database (County and Project scales). 
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Settings Menu 

1. Click Settings. 

 
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2. Click Configure MOVES to set-up the basic MOVES operating configuration. Most 

users should not need this function. 

 
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Help Menu 

1. Click Help. 

 
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2. Click MOVES User’s Guide to open a website where you can download this guide or 

other MOVES documentation. Click About MOVES to view the version and release 

date of the MOVES software you’re using. 

 
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Navigation Panel 

The Navigation Panel lists different portions of the RunSpec. Clicking an item in the 

Navigation Panel displays a sub-panel that assists you in making selections for that section. 

A RunSpec includes your choices for location, time period, alternate input data, and output 

preferences. In order for MOVES to process your RunSpec, each item in the Navigation 

Panel must show a green checkmark, which indicates that all necessary selections for that 

sub-panel have been made, or yellow tildas symbol, which indicates that making selections 

in the sub-panel is optional (shown below). 

 or 
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Description Panel 

The Description Panel allows you to enter a text description of the RunSpec. Include the 

location, time period being modeled, type of pollutant modeled, and anything unique about 

the RunSpec. This description will appear in the MOVESRun table of the output database. 

This is optional, but recommended to help keep track of the purpose of each MOVES run. 

1. Click Description. Enter your desired text (up to 5,000 characters of text, but no 

quote, ampersand or backslash characters allowed). 
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Scale Panel 

The Scale Panel is where you select the model type (Onroad or Nonroad), analysis scale 

(National, County, or Project) and the calculation type (Inventory or Emission Rates). 

1. Click Scale. Select the appropriate button for each choice. Note, these selections 

change what options are available on other sub-panels. Changes here can erase 

selections on other panels. 

 
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Time Spans Panel 

The Time Spans Panel is where you define the time period for which MOVES will calculate 

emissions. There are five sections in this panel and all sections must be populated. 

Section Description 

Time Aggregation Level Only one selection can be made. The 

default is Hour and this is what must be 

used for any regulatory purpose. 

Years Enter only one year at a time for County 

and Project Scales; multiple years can be 

selected for National Scale. For Nonroad 

runs, we suggest running only one year at 

a time to keep output size manageable. 

Months One or more months (including all) can be 

selected. 

Days One or both types can be selected. 

Hours One or more hours (including all) can be 

selected. All hours must be selected for 

any run that estimates hydrocarbon 

emissions. 

 

1. Click Time Spans. 
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Geographic Bounds Panel 

The Geographic Bounds Panel is where you define the geographic area in which MOVES 

calculates emissions. The options available are based upon your Scale Panel choice. 

Scale Panel Selection Options for Geographic Bounds Panel 

National  Nation (except Puerto Rico and the 

Virgin Islands) 

 State (select one or more) 

 County (select one or more, can be in 

different states) 

County  County 

 Custom Domain 

Project  County 

 Custom Domain 

1. Click Geographic Bounds. 
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Vehicles/Equipment 

The Vehicles/Equipment panels are where you define the types of vehicles you’re including 

in your RunSpec. For most analyses, all valid gasoline, diesel, ethanol and CNG vehicle 

combinations are used. 

Not all vehicle/fuel type combinations are valid. Selecting invalid fuel and source type 

combinations (e.g., diesel motorcycles) will cause informational notes to be displayed in the 

bottom window of this panel, but does not cause problems with the MOVES run or with 

model results. Include all valid vehicle/fuel combinations to accurately account for total 

emissions for each source type. If all the valid combinations are not selected in the 

RunSpec, emissions from those missing combinations will be lost in the model output and 

the results will not be accurate. 

The table below lists the vehicle types available for onroad analysis and their associated 

FHWA VM-1 vehicle types. If you select Nonroad on the scale panel, a list of nonroad 

equipment is provided. 
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MOVES Source Use Types and HPMS Vehicle Types 

MOVES HPMS VM-1 

Source Type ID Source Types Vehicle Type ID Vehicle Type 

11 Motorcycle 10 Motorcycles 

21 Passenger Car 25 Light Duty Vehicles 

Passenger Cars 

31 Passenger Truck 25 Light Duty Vehicles 

32 Light Commercial 

Truck 

25 Light Duty Vehicles 

Other 2 axel-4 tire 

vehicles 

41 Intercity Bus 40 Buses 

42 Transit Bus 40 Buses 

43 School Bus 40 Buses 

51 Refuse Truck 50 Single Unit Trucks 

52 Single Unit ShortHaul Truck 50 Single Unit Trucks 

53 Single Unit LongHaul Truck 50 Single Unit Trucks 

54 Motor Home 50 Single Unit Trucks 

61 Combination ShortHaul Truck 60 Combination Trucks 

62 Combination LongHaul Truck 60 Combination Trucks 

 
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1. Click Vehicles/Equipment. 

 
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2. Click On Road Vehicle Equipment. Make appropriate selections of Fuels and 

Source Use Types (or nonroad equipment) and then Add Fuel/Type Combinations to 

create the list of vehicles/equipment for your RunSpec. 

 
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Road Type Panel 

The Road Type Panel is where you indicate which road type you’re including in your 

RunSpec. You generally select all road types unless there is a specific reason not to, such as 

when you’re estimating emissions from a specific facility using the Project Scale. 

Available Road Types 

Road Type Description 

Off-Network Captures emissions that occur while vehicles 

are not moving, i.e., start, extended idle 

(hoteling of long haul combination trucks), 

and resting evaporative emissions. Idle 

emissions that occur during normal running 

operation, such as at signalized 

intersections, is captured in the other road 

types. 

Rural Restricted Captures running emissions, including 

running evaporative emissions. Restricted 

indicates restricted vehicle access via ramps, 

such as freeways and interstates. 

Rural Un-Restricted Captures running emissions, including 

running evaporative. Un-Restricted indicates 

all other rural roads not included in 

Restricted. 

Urban Restricted Captures running emissions, including 

running evaporative. Restricted indicates 

restricted vehicle access via ramps, such as 

freeways and interstates. 

Urban Un-Restricted Captures running emissions, including 

running evaporative. Un-Restricted indicates 

all other urban roads not included in 

Restricted. 

 
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1. Click Road Type. 

Note: Emissions and activity on or due to restricted access roads can be further split to show ramp and

non‐ramp data. Clicking the Provide separate ramp output checkbox will provide additional road types

in the output database to hold these split values.
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Pollutants and Processes Panel 

The Pollutants and Processes Panel is where you choose pollutants and processes for your 

RunSpec. Some pollutant/process selections automatically select certain road types. Some 

of the listed pollutants are aggregates of other pollutants. 

 Some pollutants/processes are chained (i.e. some pollutants are calculated as ratios to 

others). MOVES will indicate in the bottom sub-panel which additional pollutants or 

processes must be selected if they are not already chosen. Click the Select Prerequisites

button to automatically choose all required pollutants. 

1. Click Pollutants and Processes. Click in the boxes to the right to select specific 

combinations of pollutant and process. Note, this panel continues beyond what is 

displayed on most screens. Click the box on the left to select all processes for a 

given pollutant. Clicking the “+” by some aggregate pollutants will show a detailed 

list of species that make up the aggregate category. 

 
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Manage Input Data Sets Panel 

The Manage Input Data Sets Panel is not used in most cases. Its function has been replaced 

by the Data Importer, County Data Manager (CDM), and Project Data Manager (PDM). It 

provides an alternative to way to input data, but does not include the data checks built into 

the other importing methods. However, you must click this panel in order to get a green 

check that allows you to execute your RunSpec. 

1. Click Manage Input Data Sets. 

 
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Strategies 

The Strategies section contains the Rate of Progress Panel. The Rate of Progress Panel 

allows you to estimate emissions as if the 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments had not been 

implemented. 

1. Click Strategies. 
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2. Click Rate of Progress. Check the box for “Compute Rate-of-Progress “No Clean Air 

Act Amendments” Emissions. 

 
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Output Panels 

The Output Panels are the General Output Panel and the Output Emissions Detail Panel. 

General Output Panel 

The output database is where the RunSpec results are stored and the units reported. You 

indicate an output database by entering a unique name and by telling MOVES to create the 

output database file, or referencing an existing database. Output from multiple RunSpecs 

can be stored in the same database and are each identified by a different MOVES run ID. 

Combining output from multiple runs is recommended only when there is a reason to do so 

(e.g. when each run is a county in a non-attainment area and the results will be summed 

later). 

Units must be selected for Mass, Energy, and Distance. Activity selections are optional and 

activity is reported only for the selections made (e.g. geographic area, time period, 

vehicles). See the Reference Manual for more detail on activity types. 

 
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1. Click Output. 

 
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2. Click General Output. 

 
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Output Emissions Detail Panel

The Output Emissions Detail Panel defines the level of detail you want MOVES to report. You 

define the time period for which you want results reported, the geographic area for which 

you want results reported, and whether you want emissions broken out by fuel type, 

emissions process, or vehicle type. 

The default level of output for time is the same selection made in the Time Spans Panel. You 

can select a longer period of time (e.g. if you had selected Hour in the Time Spans Panel, 

you can select Month here), but not a shorter period of time. If you do select a longer 

period of time, be aware that MOVES will only sum the data available. (For example, if you 

select only 9am-10am in the Time Span Panel and request output by month, the results will 

be the sum of emissions in that hour for the month.) 

The default level of output for location is the same geographic level selected in the 

Geographic Bounds Panel. You can select a larger geographic area, but not a smaller one. 

Again, the model will only sum the detail selected in the Geographic Bounds panels. 

Other output detail is optional. Model Year will provide a line of output for each model year 

which will increase the number of output lines by 31 times. Emissions Process includes 

separate output for each process selected in the Pollutants and Processes panel. Source Use 

Type is type of vehicle and is generally a useful output. SCC is an EPA reporting code. Reg 

Class refers to EPA regulatory classes. 

1. Click Output Emissions Detail. Select desired options. 
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Advanced Performance Features Panel 

The Advanced Performance Features Panel is not generally used. The Masterloopable 

Components sub-panel is intended to speed up batch runs by allowing users to save 

intermediate output from one run and to reuse it for another run with identical activity or 

other characteristics. Other options on this panel are for diagnostic work only. 

1. Click Advanced Performance Features. Select intermediate data to save or reuse. 

Indicate the destination database where this data is to be stored. 
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Running MOVES 

When your RunSpec is complete, you can run the MOVES model by saving and executing 

the RunSpec using the menu at the top of the interface panel. 
Chapter 2 

Using the MOVES County Scale
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Introduction 

This section covers how to develop a County Scale RunSpec for on-road sources using the 

County Data Manager. County Scale is required for State Implementation Plan (SIP) and 

Conformity analyses. County specific data must be entered when the County Scale is 

selected. You can import or export data with the County Data Manager. It’s important to 

note that local data should be used for most inputs and that default data is very limited.

The County Data Manager is not intended for Nonroad inputs.

This example scenario is intentionally simplified to facilitate learning to use MOVES at the 

County Scale. A RunSpec constructed to calculate an inventory for a SIP or conformity 

analysis would have to completely address all variables as described in EPA guidance. 

Set-up the entire RunSpec first before the county inputs are added. This enables 

the County Data Manager (CDM) to filter the default database for relevant 

information. 

Further guidance can be found online: http://www.epa.gov/otaq/models/moves/index.htm
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Developing a County Scale MOVES RunSpec 

1. Ensure MOVES is open. Click File > New. 

 
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2. Click Description and enter your RunSpec information (up to 5,000 characters of 

text, but no quote, ampersand or backslash characters allowed). 

 
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3. Click Scale; select the County radio button under Domain/Scale. 

Notes: County scale must be used for SIPs or transportation conformity analyses. Model default is

Onroad and would not be changed for this inventory.

 
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4. Choose the Inventory radio button under Calculation Type. 

Note: Either Inventory or Emission Rates options may be used for SIPs or transportation conformity

analyses. Chapter 5 provides more information on Emission Rates.

 
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5. Click Time Spans; select the Hour radio button under Time Aggregation Level. 

Note: For all regulatory purposes, Time Aggregation Level should be set to hour.  

 
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6. Under Years, select a year from the Select Year drop-down menu; click Add. 

Note: You can only select one year for a County scale RunSpec.

 
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7. Under Months, select a month (or months) by clicking the box (or boxes). A 

checkmark will appear in the box next to the selected month(s). 

Note: You may also click Select All to select all months of the year. If you make an error in your choices,

you may also click Clear All to remove all checkboxes in this section and start over.

 
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8. Under the Days section, choose your option(s) by clicking the box (or boxes) next to 

Weekend and/or Weekdays. A checkmark will appear in the box next to the 

selected options(s). 

Note: You may also click Select All to select both options. If you make an error in your choices, you may

also click Clear All to remove all checkboxes in this section and start over.

 
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9. Under Hours, choose the preferred time frames from the Start Hour and End Hour

drop-down menus. 

Note: You may also click Select All to select a 24‐hour time period (as shown above).  For Regulatory

purposes, all hours must be modeled. If you make an error in your choices, you may also click Clear All

to reset the drop‐downs in this section and start over.

 
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10.Click Geographic Bounds; select the County radio button. 
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11.Select a state from the States drop-down menu. 

Note: The selections chosen are for training purposes only.  

 
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12.Select a county from the Counties drop-down menu; click Add. 

  

Note: The Domain Input Database section allows the user to create or select a county database, and

allows access to the available limited default data stored for that county. This section of the Geographic

Bounds panel should be left blank until the rest of the RunSpec is completed.  Move on to the next

section even though a red exclamation mark remains for Geographic Bounds.

 
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13.Click Vehicles/Equipment; click On Road Fuel Equipment. 

 
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14.Select a fuel (or fuels) from the Fuels list. 

Note:  Selections chosen are for training purposes. For most analyses, select all valid gasoline, diesel,

ethanol, and CNG vehicle combinations. You can select multiple fuels by holding the <crtl> button while

clicking your selections.
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15.Select a source use type (or types) from the Source Use Types list; click Add 

Fuel/Type Combinations. 

Note: You can select multiple source use types by holding the <crtl> button while clicking your

selections. Your selections will appear in the Selections list after you click Add Fuel/Type Combinations.  

Note: For a complete emissions inventory of all sources, select all valid fuel and source use type

combinations. Not selecting all valid fuels for a particular source type may lead to results that are

inconsistent with the VMT entered in MOVES for that source type. Selecting invalid fuel and source type

combinations (e.g., diesel motorcycles) will cause informational notes to be displayed in the bottom

window of this panel, but does not cause problems with the MOVES run or with model results.

 
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16.Click Road Type; select a road type (or types) from the Available Road Types 

list; click Add. 

Note: You can also click Select All to add all available road types. Selections shown are for training

purposes.

 
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17.Click Pollutants and Processes; click the box next to each pollutant you’d like 

included in your RunSpec. A checkmark will appear next to each selected item. 

Uncheck to remove. 

Note: Item chosen is for training purposes. Slide the scroll bar to view all processes selected for each

pollutant.  

Note: Individual boxes under each process can be used to select only certain processes.  For a complete

inventory of a particular pollutant, you must select all processes.  

 
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18.Click Manage Input Data Sets. 

Note: No entries were chosen for this example. You need to click on this panel to get a green check, but

no other input is needed. You would use this panel if you had specialized input data created outside of

MOVES.  In almost all cases, the County Data Manager will be used instead of this panel.

 
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19.Click Strategies; click Rate Of Progress. You would click the box next to Compute 

Rate-of-Progress only if you need an inventory for emissions based on the 

assumption that the 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments had not been implemented. 

Note: The default setting for this panel is a green check and it does not need be selected in order to

complete a RunSpec.

 
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20.Click Output; click General Output; type your output database name in the 

Database field. 

Note: We recommend you name your output database ending with “_out”.  

Note: You can also use the drop‐down field to locate an existing database if you’ve previously created

one. While it is generally not recommended, results from multiple RunSpecs can be stored in the same

output database. Each RunSpec in the output will be identified by different MOVESrunID’s.

 
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21.Click the drop-downs under Units to identify Mass Units, Energy Units, and 

Distance Units. 

Note: All units must be selected and populated with values.

 
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22. Optional step: Click the box (or boxes) next to the activity (or activities) under the 

Activity section you’d like in your output. 

Note: Selections shown are for training purposes, but are recommended for your RunSpec.   

Note: Including activity in the output database provides an opportunity to check whether activity

entered in MOVES matches activity output.  At a minimum, EPA recommends including Distance

Traveled and Population in all runs.

 
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23.Click Create Database. 

 
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24. You will receive a pop-up message letting you know your output database was 

successfully created. Click OK. 

 
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25.Click Output Emissions Detail. 

Note: This panel is used to determine the amount of detail or aggregation of emissions output.  Asking

for more detail creates larger, more complex output files.  Limiting detail provides more aggregated

results in smaller output files.  Your choice is determined by what you will need to do with the results.  If

you later determine you needed more detail, you will have to re‐do the run.

 
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26. Under Always, choose the desired Time and Location detail by using the drop-down 

menus. 

Note: Hour is necessary if the results will need to be allocated by time of day.  County should be

selected for a County Scale run not using a Custom Domain.

 
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27. Under for All Vehicle/Equipment Categories, click the box (or boxes) next to 

categories you want to see in the output. 

Note: Model Year results in output broken down by each of 31 model years for each source type.  The

other categories should be selected if detailed emissions for each Fuel Type and Emissions Process are

needed.

 
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28. Under On and Off Road, click the boxes next to the selections you’d like in your 

output. 

 
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29. Optional step. Click Advanced Performance Features Panel. This section is for 

advanced users and troubleshooting only. Most users will not populate this screen. 

 
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30.Save your RunSpec. Click File > Save. 

   
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31. Navigate to where you store your RunSpecs using the drop-down if necessary. 

Note: EPA recommends you create a folder specifically for MOVES RunSpecs such as the “MOVES2014

RunSpecs” folder shown here.

 
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32. In the File Name field, type the name of your RunSpec; click Save.

Note: For improved file management, choose a file name that is consistent with the names given to the

input and output databases created using the RunSpec, and type “.mrs” (MOVES RunSpec) as the file

name extension.    

 
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Using the County Data Manager to Enter Local Data 

The County Data Manager (CDM) is a tool that facilitates the process of entering data into a 

county input database. The data in the input database is used by MOVES when executing 

the RunSpec. When the CDM is open, the MOVES GUI is frozen and no changes can be 

made to the RunSpec. 

You will manipulate your data in Excel and then import those worksheets into the CDM. You 

do not enter data directly into the CDM. However, the CDM can create templates, export 

default data, or export previously imported data. The files you create through the CDM 

provide the proper format of the input tables, which is very important. 

You will also use the CDM to review your data for accuracy prior to executing the RunSpec. 

This ensures the most up-to-date information is used in modeling. The CDM imports this 

data into the county input database. You can add descriptions of the imported data which 

are useful for documenting data sources. You can also clear previously imported data before 

importing new data to ensure accuracy and prevent execution errors. 

There are two ways to open the CDM. 

1. Click Pre Processing > County Data Manager. 
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Or 

2. Click Geographic Bounds then click Enter/Edit Data. 

 
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A newly opened CDM has many tabs as shown at the top of the image below. 

Note:       appears when data is sufficient and passes error checks for all parameters in the

RunSpec.    appears when insufficient data is provided and/or there are errors.
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Using the County Data Manager: Database Tab 

The Database tab is where you create or select the county input database. Once you’ve 

selected or created a county input database, the tables within it can be edited with the other 

CDM tabs. 

1. To create a database, type a database name in the Database field (or select an 

existing one from the drop-down menu). 

Note: End all database file names with ‘_in’ to help identify them as input databases.  

Note: Use a consistent naming convention with similar names for the input database, to the RunSpec

file and the output database.. Previously created input databases will appear in the drop down menu

and can be opened for editing.

 
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2. Click Create Database. 

Note: All tables in the selected database can be cleared of data by clicking the Clear All Imported Data

button.

 
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3. Click OK.

 
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Using the County Data Manager: Creating a Template 

You can create an Excel template spreadsheet from most tabs in the CDM. The template will 

be pre-populated with some data based upon entries made in the RunSpec. The 

fields/column headings will be created, but the cells will be blank for your own data. 

1. Within most tabs, click the Create Template button. 

 
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2. Type a name for the template in the File name field. 

Note: Use the “.xls” or “.xlsx” file extension at the end of your file name. You must provide the file

extension.

 
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3. Click Save.

Note: Ensure you’ve navigated to the folder where you want to store the template.

Note: After creating and saving the blank template, you would then open it in Excel, enter the appropriate local

data, and save again prior to importing the completed data into MOVES.  The process of finding the completed

input spreadsheet and importing it into MOVES is described below.
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Using the County Data Manager: Exporting Default Data 

Not all tabs in the CDM have the Export Default Data option. When the option is available, 

an Export Default Data will be present on the GUI. To export data when available, follow the 

steps below. Exporting default data allows you to review the MOVES default data and make 

any necessary changes before running MOVES. 

1. Click the Export Default Data button. 

 
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2. Type a name for the data file in the File name field. 

Note: Use the “.xls” or “.xlsx’ file extension at the end of your file name. You must provide a file

extension.  We recommend that you use descriptive file names that will make it easier to keep track of

what files provide local data for your MOVES run.

 
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3. Click Save.

Note: Ensure you’ve navigated to the folder where you want to store the data file.

Note: After exporting and saving default data, you would then open it in Excel, review and make any changes

needed to properly reflect local data, and save again prior to importing the modified data into MOVES.  The

process of finding the modified data and importing it into MOVES is described below. 
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Viewing Defaults and Entering Data 

Once you have saved MOVES defaults or a blank template, you may view and edit these 

values with Excel. Using the template will assure that you have correct worksheet and 

column names. 

For guidance on data sources and other requirements, see the most recent MOVES technical 

guidance on using MOVES to prepare emission inventories in State Implementation Plans 

and Transportation Conformity available on the web at 

http://www.epa.gov/otaq/models/moves/index.htm 

Using the County Data Manager: Importing Data 

All data, including default data, must be imported back into the CDM from Excel for each 

required tab. Imported data are read from an Excel worksheet that has been properly 

formatted with the correct columns. 

Required tabs are indicated by an which means more information is required. Tabs 

with an are optional for user supplied data. The exception to this is the Ramp Fraction 

Tab. This tab requires you to complete steps 2-6 below, even though it has an . 

 

You will complete steps 2-6 for each required tab (outlined in the following table). 

Tab Name Tab Description 

Source Type 

Population 

Source Type Population is the actual number of vehicles of each source 

type in the country being modeled. This tab inputs the number of local 

vehicles operating in the area. It’s important for start and evaporative 

emissions. MOVES table is SourceTypeYear. 

Vehicle Type 

VMT 

This tab inputs the total annual VMT by HPMS vehicle type. It also 

includes month, day, and hour VMT fractions. Month VMT fractions are the 

fraction of annual VMT (per source type) occurring per month. Day VMT 

fractions are the fraction of monthly VMT (per source type) occurring on 

one of the two day types (weekday or weekend). Hour VMT fractions are 

the fraction of daily VMT (per source type) occurring per hour. The main 

MOVES table is HPMSVTypeYear. 

I/M Programs This tab inputs data on I/M programs if any exist. MOVES table is 

IMCoverage. 

Fuel This tab inputs market share and composition of fuel blends and fractions 

of vehicles using each fuel type. Defaults are available by county. MOVES 

tables are FuelSupply,FuelFormulation, FuelUsageFraction, and AVFT. 

Meteorology 

Data 

This tab inputs temperature and humidity inputs. Meteorology data should 

be entered for every month and hour selected in the RunSpec. MOVES 

table is ZoneMonthHour. 

Ramp 

Fraction 

This tab inputs information about the fraction of freeway VHT occurring on 

ramps. MOVES table is RoadType. 

Road Type 

Distribution 

This tab inputs information on the fraction of source type VMT on different 

road types. MOVES table is RoadTypeDistribution. 

Age This tab inputs age fractions of fleet by age and source type. Age 
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Distribution Distribution is entered according to MOVES source types and calendar 

year and covers new to 30+ year old vehicles. MOVES does not vary age 

distribution by month. MOVES table is SourceTypeAgeDistribution. 

Average 

Speed 

Distribution 

This tab inputs data on speed distribution by road type, hour, and source 

(vehicle) type. MOVES has 16 speed bins ranging from 2.5 to 75+ mph. 

Average Speed Distribution is in terms of time, not distance (i.e. fraction 

of VHT, not VMT, for each speed bin). MOVES table is 

AvgSpeedDistribution 

Hotelling Hotelling hours is nominally the total number of hours spent by truck 

drivers in their trucks during mandated rest periods between trips during 

long haul operations. This tab inputs total hotelling hours and the 

operating distribution for vehicles during hotelling hours. Time can be 

divided between extended idling and auxiliary power unit (APU) operation 

and other operating modes. The MOVES tables are 

hotellingActivityDistribution and hotellingHours. 

1. Click the Source Type Population tab. 

 
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2. Click Browse. 

 
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3. Click the Excel file you want to import; click Open. 

 
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4. Click the worksheet to use (should match Data Source in the CDM tab); click OK. 

 
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5. Add a description for the imported data in the Description of Imported Data field; 

click Import. 

Note:  Be sure to add a description for the imported data. This will appear in the log and can help you

differentiate between multiple imported files.

 
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6. Verify the file was imported by clicking the Database tab to view the log. 

You must do this for each required tab. Click each required tab, then complete 

steps 2-6 outlined above. 

Generic Tab 

This tab contains a drop-down list of MOVES table names. From here, you can import data 

not provided for on the other tabs. There is no data validation provided for generic imports 

on this tab. Changing data in other MOVES tables can cause MOVES to not function properly 

and may not be appropriate for regulatory purposes. You should review EPA Guidance for 

examples of appropriate changes before using this tab. 
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Executing the RunSpec 

You should now see green checkmarks next to each option on the left side of the Navigation 

Panel. If Geographic bounds still has a red check, click on another option (e.g., Time Spans) 

and click on Geographic Bounds again to refresh it. 

1. Click Geographic Bounds.

 
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2. Verify the correct input database is selected. 

 
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3. Click Action > Execute. 

 
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4. Click Yes to save the RunSpec before executing. 

 
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5. MOVES is now executing your RunSpec. Two windows will pop-up during execution, 

but require no action on your part. 

 
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6. Click OK when the Run Completion window appears. 

 
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Chapter 3 

Process MOVES Output
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Introduction 

In this section, we explain what is contained in MOVES output tables and explore the PostProcessing Menu and MySQL Scripts. All of the results of a MOVES RunSpec are stored in 

MySQL database tables. These results can be accessed via MySQL query commands, the 

MySQL query browser, MySQL workbench or via Microsoft Access with MySQL Open 

Database Connectivity (ODBC). Information on these tools and about proper syntax for 

MySQL queries is readily available on the web. 

Frequently asked questions and more can be found online at 

http://www.epa.gov/otaq/models/moves/. 

Exploring MOVES Output Tables 

The MOVES output database contains numerous output tables with results of the RunSpec, 

input data, and other information about the RunSpec. The three main tables are: 

Table Name Description 

MOVESOutput table Contains the quantity of emissions by 

sourcetype, pollutant/process, etc. It is 

based upon output detail selections made in 

the RunSpec. 

MOVESActivityOutput table Contains the quantities (miles, number of 

vehicles, starts, or hours) of activity types 

selected in the General Output panel during 

RunSpec creation. These can be useful to 

check that all activity entered in MOVES was 

accounted for during the run. 

MOVESRun table Information about the RunSpec such as the 

date/time of the RunSpec, domain and scale, 

and units selected. 

Additional output tables are only populated when doing an Emission Rates run (not relevant 

to Inventory run): 

1. RatePerDistance 

2. RatePerVehicle 

3. RatePerProfile 

4. RatePerHour 

5. RatePerStart 

Other output tables are useful for reference and diagnostic purposes: 

1. ActivityType 

2. MOVESError 

3. MOVESTablesUsed 

4. MOVESWorkersUsed 

5. MOVESEventLog 
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Using the Post-Processing Menu: Run MySQL Script on Output 

Database 

MOVES post-processing scripts are applied to the current output database as selected in the 

active RunSpec. Thus, it is easiest to perform Post-Processing immediately after executing 

your RunSpec. Click Post Processing > Run MySQL Script on Output Database. 

Note: Scripts may require you run MOVES in a particular way. Ensure you’ve read the script

documentation prior to running MOVES.   
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1. Select the desired script from the Select output processing script drop-down. 

 
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Post-Processing Scripts List 

Script Title Description 

DecodeMOVESOutput.sql Decodes most key fields of the 

MOVESOutput and MOVESActivityOutput 

tables. 

EmissionRates.sql Produces an output table which reports the 

emission results in units of mass per 

distance. 

TabbedOutput.sql Produces tab-delimited output suitable for 

reading into an EXCEL Spreadsheet from the 

MOVES MySQL database output tables. 

Post-Processing Scripts List: Project Scale Runs 

Script Title Description 

CO_CAL3QHC_EF.sql Produces CO emission rates for use in the 

CAL3QHC air quality model. 

CO_Grams_Per_Hour.sql Produces CO emission rates as grams per 

hour for each link. 

CO_Grams_Per_Veh_Mile.sql Produces CO emission rates as grams per 

vehicle-mile for each link. 

PM10_Grams_Per_Hour.sql Produces PM10 emission rates as grams per 

hour for each link. 

PM10_Grams_Per_Veh_Mile.sql Produces PM10 emission rates as grams per 

vehicle-mile for each link. 

PM25_Grams_Per_Hour.sql Produces PM2.5 emission rates as grams per 

hour for each link. 

PM25_Grams_Per_Veh_Mile.sql Produces PM2.5 emission rates as grams per 

vehicle-mile for each link. 

 
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Using the Post-Processing Menu: Run MySQL Script on Nonroad 

Output Database 

Separate scripts may be run to process output from MOVES Nonroad run. This example is 

designed to follow completion of a Nonroad run. Setting up a RunSpect for Nonroad is 

explained in Chapter 7. The scripts are applied to the current output database selected in 

the current RunSpec. 

1. Click Post Processing > Run MySQL Script on Nonroad Output Database. 

Note: Nonroad post‐processing scripts may require you run MOVES in a particular way. Ensure you’ve

read the script documentation prior to running MOVES.   
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2. Select the desired script from the Select output processing script drop-down. 

 
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3. Read the script’s documentation and confirm your selection by clicking OK. 

4. Type a name for the post-processing script output in the File name field and click 

Save. 

Note: Use the “.txt” file extension for a plaintext report, or use the “.xls” or “.xlsx” file extension for an

Excel report. You must provide the extension at the end of your file name.

5. Depending on the size of the output database and the script selected, this process 

may take a long time to complete. However, MOVES will notify you when the script 

has finished and your output has been saved; click OK.
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Nonroad Post-Processing Scripts List 

Script Title Description 

EmissionFactors_per_hphr_by_Equipment.sql Generates emission factors for each 

selected pollutant per horsepowerhour by fuel type and equipment type 

EmissionFactors_per_hphr_by_Equipment_and_ 

Horsepower.sql 

Generates emission factors for each 

selected pollutant per horsepowerhour by fuel type, equipment type, 

and horsepower bin 

EmissionFactors_per_hphr_by_SCC.sql Generates emission factors for each 

selected pollutant per horsepowerhour by SCC 

EmissionFactors_per_OperatingHour_by_Equipment

.sql 

Generates emission factors for each 

selected pollutant per operating hour 

by fuel type and equipment type 

EmissionFactors_per_OperatingHour_by_Equipment

_and_Horsepower.sql 

Generates emission factors for each 

selected pollutant per operating hour 

by fuel type, equipment type, and 

horsepower bin 

EmissionFactors_per_OperatingHour_by_SCC.sql Generates emission factors for each 

selected pollutant per operating hour 

by SCC 

EmissionFactors_per_Vehicle_by_Equipment.sql Generates emission factors for each 

selected pollutant per vehicle by fuel 

type and equipment type 

EmissionFactors_per_Vehicle_by_Equipment_and_ 

Horsepower.sql 

Generates emission factors for each 

selected pollutant per vehicle by fuel 

type, equipment type, and 

horsepower bin 

EmissionFactors_per_Vehicle_by_SCC.sql Generates emission factors for each 

selected pollutant per vehicle by SCC 

Inventory_by_County_and_Pollutant.sql Generates an aggregate inventory of 

each selected pollutant 

Inventory_by_County_FuelType_Pollutant.sql Generates an aggregate inventory of 

each selected pollutant by fuel type 

Inventory_by_Equipment_Horsepower_Pollutant.sql Generates an aggregate inventory of 

each selected pollutant by equipment 

type and horsepower bin 

Inventory_by_EquipmentType_Pollutant.sql Generates an aggregate inventory of 

each selected pollutant by equipment 

type 

Inventory_by_Sector_Horsepower_Pollutant.sql Generates an aggregate inventory of 

each selected pollutant by sector and 

horsepower bin 

Inventory_by_Sector_SCC_Pollutant.sql Generates an aggregate inventory of 

each selected pollutant by sector and 

SCC 

Population_by_Sector_and_SCC.sql Generates population numbers by 

sector and SCC 
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Working with Output Databases in MySQL 

You can also use MySQL to manipulate the database output directly. Advice on using 

MySQL is readily available on the web. Advice specific to MOVES is available in materials 

such as the the Hands-On Training Course for MOVES2010b 

http://www.epa.gov/otaq/models/moves/documents/moves-2-day-course.zip. 

Copying and Sending MySQL Databases 

All input and output databases are stored as folders. These databases can be copied and 

zipped for email and review. 

1. Navigate to your data folder. This location was determined during MOVES 

installation and may vary depending on your operating system. For example, 

C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\MySQL\MySQL 

Server 5.6\data . 

 
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2. Click on the desired database folder; copy and zip if desired. 
Chapter 4 

Using the MOVES Custom Domain Option
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Introduction 

When preparing a run at the County or Project scale, users may choose to run a “custom 

domain”. When using custom domain, access to county default data is unavailable, but you 

have the ability to model multiple zones (for example, multiple counties, or areas that do 

not correspond to county boundaries) using the “zone” and “zoneroad” inputs to divide 

activity between areas of the domain. 

Users should first consult Chapter 2 –Using MOVES at the County Scale. This example does 

not demonstrate all steps involved in creating a custom domain RunSpec. 

Inputs for a Custom Domain Run 

1. Click Geographic Bounds; click the radio button next to Custom Domain. 

Note: Custom Domain is only available for County and Project Scale RunSpecs.   
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2. Type a number 1-999 in the County ID field. County ID is almost always 1. 

Note: State ID is always 99 for custom domain; the Description field is optional, but recommended.

 
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3. Enter the GPA Fraction, Bar. Pressure, Vapor Adjust, and Spill Adjust. 

Note: Numbers shown here are for training purposes only.   
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4. Select your database by clicking the Database drop-down menu. Or skip to step 5 

to create a new input database. 

 
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5. Click the Enter/Edit Data button to open the County Data Manager (described in 

detail in Chapter 2). Use the tabs to enter appropriate data for your domain. Zone, 

zoneroad, zoneSCC, and meteorology are relevant for custom domains. They let you 

allocate VMT, starts, extended idle, hotelling, and parked (evap) activity across userdefined zones of the domain. Meteorological conditions can also vary across zones. 

On the other hand, age distribution, fuels, speed distribution, ramp fraction, I/M 

program, and road type distribution are uniform across all zones in the custom 

domain and should be entered in the same way as for a county. 

 
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Using Zone and Zoneroad Inputs 

The zone and zoneroad tables are can be created using the Zone tab in the county data 

manager. 

Zone Input 

Zone inputs are used to allocate off-network activity to each zone. Enter the allocation for 

starts (startAllocFactor) and parking (SHPAllocFactor). The allocations must sum to one for 

all zones in the domain. 

The above example shows a custom domain with two zones. Starts are mostly occurring in 

zone 2, while extended idle primarily occurs in zone 1. Vehicle hours parked are equally 

divided between zones 1 and 2. 

 
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Zoneroad Input

Zoneroad inputs are used to vary on-road activity by road type and zone. You should enter 

source hours operating fraction (SHOallocfactor). Some zones may have more activity than 

ohters. Also, some zones may have more highway/freeway hours than arterial hours. The 

factors must sum to one for each road type. 

The above example shows two zones with different distributions of VMT. Freeway/highway 

restricted VMT is mostly in zone 2 while the majority of arterial/local unrestricted VMT 

occurs in zone 1. 

 
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

Meteorology 

Temperature and humidity can vary by zone. Reference county inventory information for 

guidance on selecting meteorological data sources for MOVES. 

The above example shows two zones with different meteorology. Only one hour is shown, 

but typically a 24-hour profile would be entered for each month and zone being modeled. 
Chapter 5 

Generate Emission Rates for County Scale Analyses
5‐2 Generate Emission Rates for County Scale Analyses

US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

Introduction 

In this section, you will learn to use meteorology input to build a rates lookup table, create 

a RunSpec for a rates run, and develop inputs for a rates run. The goal of a rates run is to 

generate a lookup table of on-road emission rates which can be multiplied by activity to 

develop and inventory. A MOVES rates run provides five kinds of rates: rateperdistance, 

ratepervehicle, rateperprofile, rateperstart, and rateperhour. To calculate an emission 

inventory that contains emissions from all processes, you must sum the calculated inventory 

from different tables, being careful both to include all the emissions, and not to double 

count. 

Types of Emission Rates Associated with Each MOVES Process 

ID Emission Process Type of Emission Rate 

1 Running Exhaust Distance 

2 Start Exhaust Vehicle or Start 

9 Brakewear Distance 

10 Tirewear Distance 

11 Evap Permeation Distance and Vehicle 

12 Evap Fuel Vapor Venting Profile 

13 Evap Fuel Leaks Distance and Vehicle 

15 Crankcase Running Exhaust Distance 

16 Crankcase Start Exhaust Vehicle or Start 

17 Crankcase Extended Idle Exhaust Vehicle 

18 Refueling Displacement Vapor Loss Distance and Vehicle 

19 Refueling Spillage Loss Distance and Vehicle 

90 Extended Idle Exhaust Vehicle or Hour 

91 Auxiliary Power Exhaust Vehicle or Hour 

Understanding the Five Types of MOVES Rates 

Rateperdistance 

Rateperdistance is used for on-road running processes—that is, exhaust and most 

evaporative emissions that happen on “real” roadtypes, plus refueling associated with 

energy expended on the roads. The units are in grams per vehicle-mile. The output 

rateperdistance table reports a rate for each temperature and speed bin. The temperature 

range will depend on your defined meteorology input. MonthID depends upon the selection 

in the RunSpec. Inventory estimates are calculated from ratesperdistance by 

multiplying the VMT at a given speed by the emission rate at that speed and 

ambient temperature. Rates will always be reported for each speed bin 1-16 

corresponding to 0 mph to 72.5+ mph. 

The image below describes MOVES speed bins 1-16. 
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To develop rates, use temperature ranges in even intervals to produce a lookup table. For 

example, Hour 1 – 50 degrees, Hour 2 – 51 degrees, Hour 3 – 52 degrees, etc. A rate will 

be produced for each temperature; the hourID does not impact the results. Similarly, 

monthID is meaningless (assuming appropriate fuels are imported). Additional monthIDs 

can be defined to expand the temperature range (e.g., two months would allow 48 

temperature intervals). Using this approach, you can develop a lookup table of running 

emission rates that covers all possible temperatures that occur in the modeling domain. 

Ratepervehicle 

Ratepervehicle is used for exhaust and most evaporative emissions that occur Off-Network 

(roadtype=1), such as starts, extended-idle, and Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) processes. The 

units are in grams per vehicle. The output ratepervehicle table reports a rate for each 

temperature and hour. For start, extended idle, and APU rates, the temperature and hour of 

day impact the calculated emission rate. You define the temperature profile through the 

meteorology input. Inventory estimates are calculated by multiplying the rate by the 

total vehicle population, not the number of starts or hotelling-hours. 

To develop rates, input a realistic diurnal profile since both temperature and hour of day 

impact the emission rate. For example, Hour 1 – 50.1 degrees, Hour 2 – 51.6 degrees, Hour 

3 – 54.4 degrees, etc. A rate will be produced for each temperature/hourID. The monthID is 

meaningless (assuming appropriate fuels are imported). Additional monthIDs can be defined 

to allow multiple diurnal profiles (e.g., two months would allow two diurnal profiles). 

Rateperprofile 

Rateperprofile is used for evaporative vapor venting. The units are in grams per vehicle. 

The output rateperprofile table reports a rate for each temperature and hour. For vapor 

venting rates, the emission rate for a given temperature and hour of the day is affected by 

the temperature in previous hours. You define the temperature profile through the 
5‐4 Generate Emission Rates for County Scale Analyses

US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

meteorology input. Inventory estimates are calculated by multiplying the rate by 

the total vehicle population, not the number of parked hours.

The image below indicates example temperature profiles. In this example, even though the 

temperatures at hour 15 are identical for Profile 2 and Profile 3, the evaporative emissions 

rates for that hour will be different because of temperature differences in previous hours. 

To develop rates, input a realistic diurnal profile since the temperature and previous hour’s 

temperature impact the emission rate. For example, Hour 1 – 50.1 degrees, Hour 2 – 51.6 

degrees, Hour 3 – 54.4 degrees, etc. A rate will be produced for each temperature/hourID. 

MonthID is meaningless (assuming appropriate fuels are imported). Additional monthIDs 

can be defined to allow multiple diurnal profiles (e.g., two months would allow two diurnal 

profiles). 

Rateperhour 

Rateperhour is an alternate rate to use for the Extended Idle and APU process when good 

data is available on this activity. The units are in grams per APU operating hour. Inventory 

results are calculated by multiplying the APU rate by the hours of APU operation, 

and the Extended Idle by the hours of extended idle hours. 

Rateperstart 

Rateperstart is an alternate rate to use for the start exhaust processes when good data is 

available on vehicle starts. The units are in grams per vehicle start. Inventory results are 

calculated by multiplying the rate by the number of starts. 
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Creating a RunSpec for a Rates Run 

1. Click Description and enter your RunSpec information (up to 5,000 characters of 

text, but no quote, ampersand or backslash characters allowed). 

 
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2. Select Scale; click the County radio button. 

 
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3. Click the Emission Rates radio button; type in your MOVESScenarioID. 

Note: MOVESScenarioID is required for a rates run, but is only used if MOVES output is post‐processed

with a specific application.

 
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4. Click Time Spans; select a year from the Select Year drop-down; click Add. 

 
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5. Click one or more checkboxes in the Months box. 

Note: or rates runs, month is used to indicate different fuel and/or meteorological conditions as

determined by your inputs.  Click Select All to select all 12 months. Click Clear All to remove all

selections.

 
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6. Select one or more day types in the Days box. 

Note: You can also click Select All to select all options. Click Clear All to remove all selections. Start/evap

rates will vary by day type. An annual inventory should use rates for weekend and weekdays. Daily

inventory may use only weekdays.

 
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7. Select all the hours in the Hours box using the dropdown menu. 

Note: You can also click Select All to select all the hours. Click Clear All to remove all selections.

 
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8. Click Geographic Bounds; verify the radio button is selected next to Zone & Link. 

Note: Select the radio button next to Custom Domain if applicable. Custom domain can add additional

flexibility using the zone input. It is possible to model many temperature ranges and diurnal profiles with

separate zoneIDs.

 
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9. Click on a state in the States box. 

Note: Only one State can be selected for County scale RunSpecs.

 
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10.Click a county in the Counties box; click Add. 

 
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11.Click Vehicles/Equipment.

 
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12.Click On Road Vehicle Equipment; select all vehicle/fuel types present in the 

modeling domain in the Fuels box. 

Note: To select multiple fuels, hold the <ctrl> button and click each desired fuel type. Click the Select All

button to select all fuel types.

 
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13.Select the desired source use types in the Source Use Types box; click Add 

Fuel/Type Combinations. 

Note: To select multiple source use types, hold the <ctrl> button and click each desired source use type.

Click the Select All button to select all source use types.

 
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14.Click Road Type. 

 
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15.Select all road types present in the modeling domain in the Available Road Types

box; click Add. 

Note: To select multiple road types, hold the <ctrl> button and click each desired road type. Click the

Select All button to select all road types.

 
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16.Click Pollutants and Processes.

 
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17.Select all pollutants of interest by clicking the desired boxes. 

Note: For a complete inventory, all processes must be selected. A rate is produced for each pollutant

and process (expressed as rateperdistance, ratepervehicle, rateperprofile, rateperhour, or rateperstart).

 
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

18.Click Manage Input Data Sets. 

Note: You don’t need to enter data in this section, but you must click to change the indicator to a green

checkmark.  
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19.Click Output; click General Output. 

 
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20. Type your output database name in the Database field; click Create Database. 

Note: If you are using a previously created database, choose it from the Database drop‐down menu.

 
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

21.Select Grams, Joules, and Miles from the Units drop-down menus. 

Note: For rates, the model automatically generates output for Activity output for Distance Traveled,

Hotelling, Population and Starts.

 
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22.Click Output Emissions Detail. 

 
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23.Click the checkbox in the On and Off Road box that pertains to your RunSpec. 

Note:  Emission Process and Road Type are automatically selected.  For Nonroad, select all available

detail since MOVES2014 can not aggregate emissions.Additional selections depend upon your available

activity data and preference.  

 
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Developing Inputs for a Rates Run 

Meteorology

Meteorology is used to define the range of rates produced. A rate is generated for every 

temperature defined. Each month selected in the RunSpec allows 24 temperatures to be 

defined (hours 1-24). Typically, multiple months are selected to allow a complete range of 

temperatures for rateperdistance as well as several diurnal profiles for 

ratepervehicle/rateperprofile/rateperstart/rateperhour rates. MonthID is meaningless in 

a rates run as long as the appropriate fuel is applied to correct month.

SourceTypePopulation

Population is applied to the ratepervehicle and rateperprofile rates in your post-processing. 

A vehicle population should be entered that is reasonable and consistent with VMT. One 

option is to enter the total vehicle population of the modeling domain. Alternatively, a single 

county’s vehicle population can be used. Most importantly, the ratio to VMT must reflect 

actual conditions. 

Age Distribution

Enter the Age Distribution of the modeling domain. If you want to apply your rates to 

multiple counties, use a single age distribution that is appropriate for all those counties. Or 

produce multiple sets of rates with multiple runs. Or, if you select the model year output 

emissions detail, the model will produce rates for each model year. These can be postprocessed to account for varying age distribution across a multi-county domain. 

VMT (HPMSVTypeYear)

VMT is applied to the rateperdistance rates in your post-processing. A VMT should be 

entered that is reasonable and consistent with vehicle population. One option is to enter the 

total VMT of the modeling domain. Alternatively, a single county’s VMT can be used. Most 

importantly, the ratio to vehicle population must reflect actual conditions. 

VMT (month, day, and hour fractions)

MonthVMTfraction, dayVMTfraction, and hourVMTfraction are also required by MOVES. 

These fractions impact emission rate calculations. Reasonable values should be entered - 

either local fractions or MOVES defaults. 

Speed Distribution

Emission rates for rateperdistance will be produced for each of 16 speed bins. MOVES still 

requires an average speed distribution input. This should be a reasonable distribution - 

either local distribution or MOVES defaults. 

Road Type Distribution

Emission rates for rateperdistance will be produced for each road type. MOVES still requires 

a road type distribution input. This should be a reasonable distribution - either local 

distribution or MOVES defaults. A value of zero should always be entered for the off-network 

road type (road type 1). 

 
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Ramp Fraction

Input the local ramp fraction or use the MOVES default (0.08) if none is available. Emission 

rates for rateperdistance will include ramp activity within each of the 16 speed bins. MOVES 

accounts for the activity required to accelerate to the average speed of each bin. Ramp VMT 

should be added to freeway/highway VMT for post-processing. 

Fuels 

Input the fuel supply and fuel formulations used in the modeling domain. Rates cannot be 

applied to areas that use different fuels. Fuels should correspond to the temperature profile 

for a given month. For instance, a wintertime diurnal temperature profile using the MonthID 

= 7 should not use July fuels. 

If you choose output that does not distinguish rates by fuel type, your mix of 

gasoline/diesel/CNG will be determined by the default AVFT (i.e. the fuel type and 

technology allocations) automatically selected in the CDM, or your inputs to override these 

default values. However, if you select output that is distinguished by fuel type, the AVFT 

values will not be applied, and instead you will apply an appropriate mix of activity by fuel 

type during your post-processing. 

I/M Programs

Input the Inspection and Maintenance program used in the modeling domain. Rates cannot 

be applied to areas that have a different I/M program or different compliance rates. 

Hotelling 

Input the hotelling activity distribution used in the modelling domain. This divides the 

hotelling time into extended idle, APU usage, battery or A/C usage, and complete vehicle 

shutdown. Default data is available for all standard counties. 
Chapter 6 

Using MOVES at the Project Scale
6‐2 Creating a Project Scale RunSpec

US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

Introduction 

In this section, you will explore MOVES capabilities at the Project Scale. Project Scale 

estimates emissions at the link level. Links are defined by the user and can include roadway 

links, such as sections of highway, ramps, arterial roads, or individual intersection segments 

and Off-Network links, which include start and extended idling activity. Project Scale models 

the average conditions on one or more links; it does not perform traffic simulation 

modeling. It utilizes the same MOVES emission rates and correction factors as County and 

National Scale. It does not utilize the default MOVES growth, VMT, or population values – 

you must supply these values, as well as all information necessary to define the links and 

the activity on them. Data can be exported or imported with the Project Data Manager 

(PDM). 

Project Scale analysis may be appropriate for activities such as CO and PM Hot-Spot 

analysis for conformity, environmental impact assessments, and roadway/intersection level 

energy and GHG analysis. Nonroad runs do not work at the Project Scale.EPA has 

developed guidance for quantitative PM Hot-Spot analysis for conformity and using MOVES 

for CO project scale analysis. Both documents can be found online at: 

http://www.epa.gov/otaq/stateresources/transconf/policy.htm. 

EPA has also developed a training course specific to the PM Hot-Spot requirement in the 

conformity rule. Training covers using MOVES in accordance with EPA guidance. It also 

covers air quality modeling, background concentrations, and design values, along with other 

topics. Training materials and training dates/locations can be found online at: 

http://www.epa.gov/otaq/stateresources/transconf/training3day.htm. 

This User Guide provides a brief outline of how to use MOVES at the Project Scale. The 

example scenario used here has been simplified. You should consult the guidance 

documents and training listed above before doing a Project Scale analysis for any regulatory 

purpose. 
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

Creating a Project Scale RunSpec 

1. Click Description and enter your RunSpec information (up to 5,000 characters of 

text, but no quote, ampersand or backslash characters allowed). 

   
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

2. Click Scale; select the Project radio button under Domain/Scale. 

 
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3. Choose the Inventory radio button under Calculation Type. 

Note: Either the Inventory or the Emission Rates option may be used.  Chapter 5 provides more

information on MOVES emission rates.

   
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

4. Click Time Spans.

Note: In Project Scale, each run can only consist of a single year, month, day, and hour.   
Creating a Project Scale RunSpec 6‐7

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5. Under Years, select a year from the Select Year drop-down menu; click Add. 

 
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6. Under Months, select a month by clicking the box. A checkmark will appear in the 

box next to the selected month. 

 
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7. Under the Days section, choose your option by clicking the box next to Weekend or 

Weekdays. A checkmark will appear in the box next to the selected options. 

 
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8. Under Hours, choose the desired hour from the Start Hour drop-down menu. Select 

the same hour as the End Hour (one hour timeframe only). 

 
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9. Click Geographic Bounds; select the County radio button. In Project Scale, each 

run can only be done for a single county or custom domain. 

Note: Choosing a county allows access to the default data stored for that county.
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

10.Select a state from the States drop-down menu. 

 
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11.Select one county from the Counties drop-down menu; click Add. 

Note: You may select one county only. An input database must be created or selected to store the

project specific data (done later).

 
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

12.Click Vehicles/Equipment; click On Road Vehicle Equipment. 
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

13.Select a fuel (or fuels) from the Fuels list. 

Note:  Selections chosen are for training purposes. For most analyses, select all valid gasoline, diesel,

Ethanol, and CNG vehicle combinations that would use the links you are modeling.  

 
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

14.Select a source use type (or types) from the Source Use Types list; click Add 

Fuel/Type Combinations. 

Note: You can select multiple source use types by holding the <crtl> button while clicking your

selections. Your selections will appear in the Selections list after you click Add Fuel/Type Combinations.

 
Creating a Project Scale RunSpec 6‐17

US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

15.Click Road Type; select a road type (or types) from the Available Road Types 

list; click Add. 

Note: Select only the road types that exist in the project you are analyzing. Select Off‐Network only if

the project includes starts or extended idle activity.

 
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16.Click Pollutants and Processes; click the box next to each pollutant you’d like 

included in your RunSpec. 

Note: Evaporative Processes cannot be modeled using the Project Scale.

 
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

17.Click Manage Input Data Sets. 

Note: You need to click on this panel to get a green check, but no other input is needed. You would use

this panel if you had specialized input data created outside of MOVES.  The Project Data Manager is

generally a better option.  

 
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19.Click Output; click General Output. 

Note: You must define an output database.

 
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20. Type your output database name in the Database field. 

Note: We recommend naming your output database ending with “_out”.  

Note: You can also use the drop‐down to locate an existing database if you’ve previously created one.

Output from multiple RunSpecs can be stored in the same output database. Each RunSpec will be

identified in your output with a different MOVESrunID.
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21.Click the drop-downs under Units to identify Mass Units, Energy Units, and 

Distance Units. 

Note: Values must be selected for all three types of units.

 
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22. Optional step: Click the box (or boxes) next to the activity (or activities) under the 

Activity section you’d like in your output. 

Note: Selections shown are for training purposes, but are recommended for any inventory RunSpec.  

 
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23.Click Create Database. 

 
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24. You will receive a pop-up message letting you know your output database was 

successfully created. Click OK. 

 
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25.Click Output Emissions Detail. 

 
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26. Under for All Vehicle/Equipment Categories, click the box (or boxes) next to 

you’re the detail you want in your ouput. 

 
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27. Under On Road and Off Road, click the boxes next to the details you’d like in your 

output. 

 
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28. Optional step. Click Advanced Performance Features Panel. This section is for 

advanced users and troubleshooting only. Most users will not populate this screen. 
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Using the Project Data Manager 

The Project Data Manager (PDM) is a tool that facilitates the process of entering data into 

an input database. The data in the input database is used by MOVES when executing the 

RunSpec. When the PDM is open, the MOVES GUI is frozen and no changes can be made to 

the RunSpec. 

You will manipulate your data in Excel and then import those worksheets into the PDM. You 

do not enter data directly into the PDM. The PDM can create templates, export default data, 

or export previously imported data. The files you create through the PDM are in the format 

required for the input tables, which is very important. 

You can add descriptions of the imported data which are useful for documenting data 

sources. You can also clear previously imported data before importing new data to ensure 

accuracy and prevent execution errors. 

There are two ways to open the PDM. 

1. Click Pre Processing > Project Data Manager. 

Or 
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2. Click Geographic Bounds then click Enter/Edit Data. 

 
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A newly opened PDM has many tabs at the top, as shown in the image below. 

Note:       appears when data is sufficient and passes error checks for all parameters in the

RunSpec.   appears when insufficient data is provided and/or there are errors. However, for some

project scale runs, it is acceptable to have a red X for some tabs. For instance, for project scenarios with

no off‐network links, it is unnecessary to define an Off‐Network, Hotelling, and Operating Mode

Distribution input. Also, the I/M Programs tab will remain a red X if no program is defined; which may be

appropriate for some areas.  
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Using the Project Data Manager: Database Tab 

The Database tab is where you create or select the input database. Once you’ve selected or 

created an input database, the tables within it can be edited with the other PDM tabs. 

1. To create a database, type a database name in the Database field (or select an 

existing one from the drop-down menu). 

Note: End all database file names with ‘_in’ to help identify them as input databases. Once a database is

created or chosen, the other tabs are available for inputs.

Note: Use a consistent naming convention by giving the input database a similar name to the RunSpec

file and output database. Previously created input databases will appear in the drop down menu and

can be opened for editing.

 
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2. Click Create Database. 

Note: All tables in the selected database can be cleared of data by clicking the Clear All Imported Data

button.

 
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3. Click OK.

 
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Using the Project Data Manager: Creating a Template 

You can create an Excel template spreadsheet from most tabs in the PDM. The template will 

be pre-populated with some data based upon entries made in your RunSpec. The 

fields/column headings will be created, but the cells will be blank for your own data. 

1. Click the Create Template button. 

 
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2. Type a name for the template in the File name field. 

Note: Use the “.xls” or “.xlsx” file extension at the end of your file name. You can open and edit the file

in Excel.

 
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3. Click Save.

Note: Ensure you’ve navigated to the folder where you want to store the template.

Note: After creating and saving the blank template, you would then open it in Excel, enter the appropriate local

data, and save again prior to importing the completed data into MOVES.  The process of finding the completed

input spreadsheet and importing it into MOVES is described below.
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Using the Project Data Manager: Exporting Default Data 

Not all tabs in the PDM have the Export Default Data option. When the option is available, 

an Export Default Data will be present on the GUI. To export data when available, follow the 

steps below. 

1. Click the Export Default Data button. 

 
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2. Type a name for the data file in the File name field. 

Note: Use the “.xls” or “.xlsx” file extension at the end of your file name. You can open and edit the file

in Excel. We recommend that you use descriptive file names that will make it easier to keep 

track of what files provide local data for your MOVES run.

 
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3. Click Save.

Note: Ensure you’ve navigated to the folder where you want to store the data file.

Note: After exporting and saving default data, you would then open it in Excel, review and make any changes

needed to properly reflect local data, and save again prior to importing the modified data into MOVES.  The

process of finding the modified data and importing it into MOVES is described below.

Viewing Defaults and Entering Data 

Once you have saved moves defaults or a blank template, you may view and edit these 

values with Excel. Using the template or defaults will assure that you have correct 

worksheet and column names. 

For guidance on data sources and other requirements, see the most recent MOVES technical 

guidance on using MOVES to prepare emission inventories in State Implementation Plans 

and Transportation Conformity available on the web at 

http://www.epa.gov/otaq/models/moves/index.htm 

 
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Using the Project Data Manager: Importing Data 

Data must be imported back into the PDM from Excel for each required tab (even when 

using default data for a tab). Use the templates and default data described above to make 

sure the data is properly formatted. 

Tabs indicated by a may require more information. Tabs with a are optional for 

user supplied data. 

 

The following steps are shown for the Hotelling tab, but need to be repeated for 

each of the required tabs in the following table. Some inputs are not used for 

certain projects (e.g. a project with no off-network activity will not use the 

Hotelling, and Off-Network tabs) 

Tab Name Tab Description 

Hotelling This tab allows input of the operating distribution for vehicles during 

hotelling hours. Time can be divided between extended idling, APU 

operation, and engine OFF. The MOVES table is 

hotellingActivityDistribution.

I/M Programs This tab allows input of data on I/M programs, if any exist. The MOVES 

table is IMCoverage. 

Operating 

Mode 

Distribution 

This tab allows input of the operating distribution for vehicles during starts 

and running operation. The MOVES table is opModeDistribution.

Age 

Distribution 

This tab allows input of the distribution of vehicles by age. Each source 

type combination has its own distribution by age. The MOVES table is 

sourceTypeAgeDistribution.

Fuel This tab allows input of information about the fuel supply, fuel 

formulations, fuel usage, and AVFT (i.e. the fuel and technology 

distribution). The MOVES tables are fuelSupply, fuelFormulation, 

fuelUsageFraction, and AVFT. 

Meteorology 

Data 

This tab allows input of temperature and humidity inputs. The MOVES 

table is ZoneMonthHour.

Links This tab allows input of definitions of the road segments (i.e. “links”) 

within the project domain. The MOVES table is link. 

Link Source 

Types 

This tab allows input of allocation of activity by source type. Each source 

type’s activity fraction within the project’s single hour on each link is 

expressed. The MOVES table is linkSourceTypeHour. 

Off-Network This tab allows input of population and activity fractions for each source 

type present in the off-network link. Each project domain can have at 

most one off-network link. The MOVES table is offnetworkLink. 

 
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

1. Click the Hotelling tab. 

Note: Reference EPA guidance documents and training for additional information about using the

Project Data Manager. 
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

2. Click Browse. 

 
Creating a Project Scale RunSpec 6‐45

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3. Click the Excel file with the data you want to import; click Open. 

 
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4. Click the worksheet to use (should match Data Source in the PDM tab); click OK. 

 
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5. Add a description for the imported data in the Description of Imported Data field; 

click Import. 

Note:  We recommend that users add a description of the imported data. This will appear in the log and

can help you differentiate between multiple imported files.

 
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

6. Verify the file was imported by clicking the Database tab to view the log. 

You must do this for each required tab. Click each required tab, then complete 

steps 2-6 outlined above. Finally, click “Done” and return to the main MOVES GUI.

 
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

Executing the RunSpec 

The RunSpec is ready once all information has been entered and imported. You will see 

green checkmarks next to each option on the left side of the GUI. 

1. Click Geographic Bounds.

Note: If Geographic Bounds doesn’t show with a green checkmark, refresh the screen by clicking Time

Spans (or any other menu item) and then go back to Geographic Bounds. It should now be green.
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

2. Verify the correct input database is selected. 

 
Creating a Project Scale RunSpec 6‐51

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3. Click Action > Execute. 

 
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4. Click Yes to save the RunSpec before executing. 

 
Creating a Project Scale RunSpec 6‐53

US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

5. MOVES is now executing your RunSpec. Two windows will pop-up during execution, 

but require no action on your part. 

Note: Estimated time of completion is shown in the Estimated Time Remaining window pop‐up.

 
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

6. Click OK when the Run Completion window appears. 
Chapter 7 

Using MOVES-Nonroad
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

Introduction 

In this section, you will learn to use MOVES to generate emission inventories for nonroad 

equipment such as tractors, lawnmowers, recreational boats and other mobile sources that 

do not generally operate on roadways. MOVES2014 incorporates the data and algorithm 

from the EPA’s existing NONROAD model and is designed to provide the same results as the 

NONROAD model, using the interface of the MOVES highway model. 

Creating a Nonroad RunSpec 

1. Click Description and enter your RunSpec information (up to 5,000 characters of 

text, but no quote, ampersand or backslash characters allowed). 

Note: This training scenario is intentionally simplified to facilitate learning.    
Creating a Nonroad RunSpec 7‐3

US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

2. Click Scale; select the Nonroad radio button under Model. 

 
7‐4 Creating a Nonroad RunSpec

US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

3. Click Time Spans.

 
Creating a Nonroad RunSpec 7‐5

US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

4. Under Years, select a year from the Select Year drop-down menu; click Add. 

Note: To keep output size manageable, we recommend modeling only one year at at time for nonroad.

 
7‐6 Creating a Nonroad RunSpec

US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

5. Under Months, select a month (or months) by clicking the box. A checkmark will 

appear in the box next to the selected month(s). 

Note: You may click Clear All to remove the checkbox in this section.

 
Creating a Nonroad RunSpec 7‐7

US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

6. Under the Days section, choose your option by clicking the box next to Weekend

and/or Weekdays. A checkmark will appear in the box next to the selected options. 

Note: If you make an error in your choice, you may also click Clear All to remove the checkbox in this

section.

 
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

7. Click Geographic Bounds; select the County radio button. 

Note: Choosing a county allows access to the available default data stored for that county.
Creating a Nonroad RunSpec 7‐9

US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

8. Select a state from the States drop-down menu. 

Note: The selections chosen are for training purposes only. You may choose one State.

 
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

9. Select a county from the Counties drop-down menu; click Add. 

Note: You may select one county only..

 
Creating a Nonroad RunSpec 7‐11

US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

10.Click Vehicles/Equipment; click NonRoad Vehicle Equipment. 
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11.Select a fuel (or fuels) from the Fuels list. 

Note:  Selections chosen are for training purposes. For most analyses, select all valid combinations.  

 
Creating a Nonroad RunSpec 7‐13

US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

12.Select a sector (or sector) from the Sectors list; click Add Fuel/Sector 

Combinations. 

Note: You can select multiple source use types by holding the <crtl> button while clicking your

selections. Your selections will appear in the Selections list after you click Add Fuel/Sector

Combinations.  The model will indicate if selected combinations do not exist in the database. Non‐

existent combinations may be included in the RunSpec or not, with no difference in results.

 
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

13.Click Road Type. 

Note: Selections are already populated for you.

 
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

14.Click Pollutants and Processes; click each checkbox on the left to choose all. 

Note: Items chosen are for training purposes, but all pollutants and processes are generally chosen for

Nonroad RunSpecs. Uncheck to remove.

 
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

15.Click Manage Input Data Sets. 

Note: You would use this screen if you have specialized data you’ve created outside of MOVES and

prepared in MOVES database format
Creating a Nonroad RunSpec 7‐17

US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

16.Skip this step if you do not have outside data to import. Click the Database dropdown menu to choose your database; click Add. 
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

17. The only current Strategy is Rate of Progress. These calculations are not relevant for 

Nonroad equipment. Click Strategies; click Rate of Progress. 

Note: ROP was not selected.  It is not relevant for nonroad emissions.  .

 
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

18.Click Output; click General Output. 

Note: You must identify an output database.

 
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

19. Type your output database name in the Database field. 

Note: We suggest you name your output database ending with “_out”.  

Note: You can also use the drop‐down to locate an existing database if you’ve previously created one.

Results of multiple RunSpecs can be stored in the same output database. The results of each RunSpec

will be identified by a different MOVESrunID.
Creating a Nonroad RunSpec 7‐21

US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

20.Click the drop-downs under Units to identify Mass Units, Energy Units, and 

Distance Units. 

Note: Values must be selected for all three Units fields..

 
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

21.Click Create Database. 

 
Creating a Nonroad RunSpec 7‐23

US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

22. You will receive a pop-up message letting you know your output database was 

successfully created. Click OK. 

 
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

23.Click Output Emissions Detail. 

 
Creating a Nonroad RunSpec 7‐25

US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

24. Under for All Vehicle/Equipment Categories, click all boxes. 

Note: All applicable levels of detail must be selected for nonroad.  MOVES2014 does not aggregate

nonroad emissions across categories.

 
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

25. Under On Road and Off Road, click the only available box (SCC). 

 
Creating a Nonroad RunSpec 7‐27

US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

26. Under Off Road, click all boxes. 

Note: All applicable levels of detail must be selected for nonroad.  MOVES2014 does not aggregate

nonroad emissions across categories.

 
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

27. Optional step. Click Advanced Performance Features Panel. 

Note: This section is for advanced users and troubleshooting only. Most users will not populate this

screen.  

Running MOVES for Nonroad 

After creating and saving your Nonroad RunSpec, you may Execute it from the Action

menu or the command line. When the run is complete, the Post Processing menu offers 

scripts to process and aggregate the MOVES nonroad output as described in Chapter 3. 
Appendix A 

MOVES Onroad Decoder
AA‐2 MOVES Decoder

US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

MOVES Onroad Decoder 

Many of the tables used by MOVES contain data that are identified using numerical codes for 

categorical values. This appendix lists descriptions for some of the most important codes for 

highway vehicles used in MOVES tables. 

All the codes for both highway vehicles and nonroad are described in the default MOVES 

database, generally in a table with the same name as the value. (For example, fuel 

subtypes used for nonroad equipment are described in the table “nrfuelsubtype”.) 

 

sourcetypeid processid

ID sourcetypename ID processName

11 Motorcycle 1 Running Exhaust

21 Passenger Car 2 Start Exhaust

31 Passenger Truck 9 Brakewear

32 Light Commercial Truck 10 Tirewear

41 Intercity Bus 11 Evap Permeation

42 Transit Bus 12 Evap Fuel Vapor Venting

43 School Bus 13 Evap Fuel Leaks

51 Refuse Truck 15 Crankcase Running Exhaust

52 Single Unit Short-haul Truck 16 Crankcase Start Exhaust

53 Single Unit Long-haul Truck 17 Crankcase Extended Idle Exhaust

54 Motor Home 18 Refueling Displacement Vapor Loss

61 Combination Short-haul Truck 19 Refueling Spillage Loss

62 Combination Long-haul Truck 90 Extended Idle Exhaust

91 Auxiliary Power Exhaust

SCCVtypeID 99 Well-to-Pump

ID PART5SCCVtypeDesc

1 LDGV roadtypeid

2 LDGT1 ID roaddesc ID roaddesc

3 LDGT2 1 Off-Network

4 HDGV 2 Rural Restricted 6 Rural Restricted w/o ramps

5 MC 3 Rural Unrestricted 7 Urban Restricted w/o ramps

6 LDDV 4 Urban Restricted 8 Rural Restricted Ramps

7 LDDT 5 Urban Unrestricted 9 Urban Restricted Ramps

8 2BHDDV

9 LHDDV dayID

10 MHDDV ID dayName

11 HHDDV 2 Weekend

12 BUSES 5 Weekdays
MOVES Decoder AA‐3

US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

regClassID 

ID regClassName regClassDesc 

0 Doesn't Matter Doesn't Matter 

10 MC Motorcycles 

20 LDV Light Duty Vehicles 

30 LDT Light Duty Trucks 

40 LHD <= 10K Class 2b Trucks with 2 Axles and 4 Tires 

(8,500 lbs < GVWR <= 10,000 lbs) 

41 LHD<=14k 

Class 2b Trucks with 2 Axles and at least 6 Tires or Class 3 

Trucks 

(8,500 lbs < GVWR <= 14,000 lbs) 

42 LHD45 Light Heavy Duty (14K lbs < GVWR <= 19.5K lbs) 

46 MHD Medium Heavy Duty (19.5K lbs < GVWR < =33K lbs) 

47 HHD Heavy Heavy Duty (GVWR > 33K lbs) 

48 Urban Bus Urban Bus (see CFR Sec. 86.091_2) 

fuelTypeID

ID fuelTypeDesc

1 Gasoline

2 Diesel Fuel

3 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)

4 Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG)

5 Ethanol (E-85)

9 Electricity

activityTypeID

ID activityTypeDesc

1 Distance traveled

2 Source Hours

3 Extended Idle Hours

4 Source Hours Operating

5 Source Hours Parked

6 Population

7 Starts

9 Average Horsepower

10 Fraction Retrofitted

11 Number Units Retrofitted

12 Load Factor

13 Hotelling Diesel Aux

14 Hotelling Battery or AC

15 Hotelling All Engines Off
AA‐4 MOVES Decoder

US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

ID pollutantname ID pollutantname ID pollutantname

1 Total Gaseous Hydrocarbons 83 Phenanthrene particle 1000 CB05 Mechanism

2 Carbon Monoxide (CO) 84 Pyrene particle 1001 CB05_ALD2

3 Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx) 86 Total Organic Gases 1002 CB05_ALDX

5 Methane (CH4) 87 Volatile Organic Compounds 1003 CB05_BENZENE

6 Nitrous Oxide (N2O) 88 NonHAPTOG 1004 CB05_CH4

20 Benzene 90 Atmospheric CO2 1005 CB05_ETH

21 Ethanol 91 Total Energy Consumption 1006 CB05_ETHA

22 MTBE 92 Petroleum Energy Consumption 1007 CB05_ETOH

23 Naphthalene particle 93 Fossil Fuel Energy Consumption 1008 CB05_FORM

24 1,3-Butadiene 98 CO2 Equivalent 1009 CB05_IOLE

25 Formaldehyde 99 Brake Specific Fuel Consumption (BSFC) 1010 CB05_ISOP

26 Acetaldehyde 100 Primary Exhaust PM10 - Total 1011 CB05_MEOH

27 Acrolein 106 Primary PM10 - Brakewear Particulate 1012 CB05_OLE

30 Ammonia (NH3) 107 Primary PM10 - Tirewear Particulate 1013 CB05_PAR

31 Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) 110 Primary Exhaust PM2.5 - Total 1014 CB05_TERP

32 Nitrogen Oxide (NO) 111 Organic Carbon 1015 CB05_TOL

33 Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) 112 Elemental Carbon 1016 CB05_UNK

34 Nitrous Acid (HONO) 115 Sulfate Particulate 1017 CB05_UNR

35 Nitrate (NO3) 116 Primary PM2.5 - Brakewear Particulate 1018 CB05_XYL

36 Ammonium (NH4) 117 Primary PM2.5 - Tirewear Particulate

40 2,2,4-Trimethylpentane 118 Composite - NonECPM

41 Ethyl Benzene 119 H2O (aerosol)

42 Hexane 120 Primary PM2.5 - NonECNonSO4PM

43 Propionaldehyde 121 CMAQ5.0 Unspeciated (PMOTHR)

44 Styrene 122 Non-carbon Organic Matter (NCOM)

45 Toluene 130 1,2,3,7,8,9-Hexachlorodibenzo-p-Dioxin

46 Xylene 131 Octachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin

51 Chloride 132 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-Heptachlorodibenzo-p-Dioxin

52 Sodium 133 Octachlorodibenzofuran

53 Potassium 134 1,2,3,4,7,8-Hexachlorodibenzo-p-Dioxin

54 Magnesium 135 1,2,3,7,8-Pentachlorodibenzo-p-Dioxin

55 Calcium 136 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzofuran

56 Titanium 137 1,2,3,4,7,8,9-Heptachlorodibenzofuran

57 Silicon 138 2,3,4,7,8-Pentachlorodibenzofuran

58 Aluminum 139 1,2,3,7,8-Pentachlorodibenzofuran

59 Iron 140 1,2,3,6,7,8-Hexachlorodibenzofuran

60 Mercury Elemental Gaseous 141 1,2,3,6,7,8-Hexachlorodibenzo-p-Dioxin

61 Mercury Divalent Gaseous 142 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-Dioxin

62 Mercury Particulate 143 2,3,4,6,7,8-Hexachlorodibenzofuran

63 Arsenic Compounds 144 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-Heptachlorodibenzofuran

65 Chromium 6+ 145 1,2,3,4,7,8-Hexachlorodibenzofuran

66 Manganese Compounds 146 1,2,3,7,8,9-Hexachlorodibenzofuran

67 Nickel Compounds 168 Dibenzo(a,h)anthracene gas

68 Dibenzo(a,h)anthracene particle 169 Fluoranthene gas

69 Fluoranthene particle 170 Acenaphthene gas

70 Acenaphthene particle 171 Acenaphthylene gas

71 Acenaphthylene particle 172 Anthracene gas

72 Anthracene particle 173 Benz(a)anthracene gas

73 Benz(a)anthracene particle 174 Benzo(a)pyrene gas

74 Benzo(a)pyrene particle 175 Benzo(b)fluoranthene gas

75 Benzo(b)fluoranthene particle 176 Benzo(g,h,i)perylene gas

76 Benzo(g,h,i)perylene particle 177 Benzo(k)fluoranthene gas

77 Benzo(k)fluoranthene particle 178 Chrysene gas

78 Chrysene particle 181 Fluorene gas

79 Non-Methane Hydrocarbons 182 Indeno(1,2,3,c,d)pyrene gas

80 Non-Methane Organic Gases 183 Phenanthrene gas

81 Fluorene particle 184 Pyrene gas

82 Indeno(1,2,3,c,d)pyrene particle 185 Naphthalene gas
Appendix B 

MOVES Quick Start Guide
AB‐2 MOVES Quick Start Guide

US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

Introduction 

The purpose of this section is provide experienced MOVES users with a brief overview of the 

major functional changes included in MOVES2014. 

Can I still run MOVES2010b if I’ve downloaded MOVES2014? 

Yes. However, you must download a patch that modifies MOVES2010b to communicate with 

the new version of MySQL. EPA has provided a patch that can be downloaded through the 

MOVES installation suite. If you skipped over this step, you may return at any time to the 

installation suite to install the patch. After the patch is installed, both MOVES2010b and 

MOVES2014 may be run from the same computer. 

How do I convert MOVES2010b databases into MOVES2014 

format? 

EPA has provided a database converter for both project and county scale databases. The 

converter can be accessed from the Tools menu of the GUI. Users should be cautioned that 

because the fuels database has been updated, fuels tables that have been converted may 

not reflect the most recent fuel information. Additionally, the monthVMTfraction table may 

need to be re-imported if a leap-year is being modeled. EPA has removed leap years from 

MOVES, and consequently, monthVMTfractions for leap years will be deleted during 

database conversion. 

What changes have been made to the MOVES GUI? 

EPA has added several enhancements that will improve how you can develop runspecs 

through the MOVES GUI. 

Password Prompt 

The first obvious GUI change is when MOVES is first opened. MOVES2014 now requires a 

password. This is in response to user feedback indicating many IT departments require a 

password protected interface between software programs and MySQL. The default user 

name is “moves” and the default password is “moves” (lowercase, no quotes). These may 

be changed at any time by the user. 

Non-Road 

MOVES2014 includes the option to model either on-road or non-road emissions. Under the 

Scale panel of the GUI, users can select either the “Onroad” or “Nonroad” model. The 

NONROAD2008 model has been incorporated into the framework of MOVES2014. It will 

produce the same emissions estimates as NONROAD2008 assuming no inputs are changed 

by the user. 

Ethanol 

In the On Road Vehicle and Equipment panel, users now have the option to choose Ethanol 

(E-85) as a fuel type. Users should select ethanol, along with gasoline, diesel, and CNG for 

most modeling scenarios. MOVES assumes that the default fleet uses all of these fuels; 
MOVES Decoder AB‐3

US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

omitting one may result in emissions being calculated based on a only sub-set of the 

complete vehicle fleet. 

Ramp Option 

In the Road Type panel, users now have the option of separating ramp emissions from 

highway (restricted road) emissions. By selecting the box “Provide separate ramp output”, 

emissions will be produced for seven road types (assuming all road types were selected): 

Road type 1 – Off-network 

Road type 3 - Rural Unrestricted 

Road type 5 – Urban Unrestricted 

Road type 6 – Rural Restricted without Ramps 

Road type 7 – Urban Restricted without Ramps 

Road type 8 – Rural Restricted only Ramps 

Road type 9 – Urban Restricted only Ramps 

This selection is completely optional, and will not affect the emissions calculations and the 

total emissions inventory. 

Auto-chaining 

A button has been added to the pollutant and processes panel to automatically select the 

prerequisite pollutants for a given selection. For instance, selecting “Primary Exhaust PM2.5 

– Total” will prompt the user to also select “Composite – NonECPM” and “Elemental 

Carbon”. Clicking the button “Select Prerequisites” will automatically select those pollutants. 

Regulatory Class Output Option 

In the output emissions detail panel, users now have the option to output by “Regulatory 

Class”. This can be selected instead of, or along with, source type output. Selecting this 

option will not affect the total inventory, but will provide a breakdown of emissions by 

regulatory class. 

What changes have been made to MOVES inputs? 

EPA has made several improvements and added flexibility to how users can provide local 

data to the model. The following are new or improved input options. 

Hotelling Importer 

In the county and project data manager, users will now have the option of providing local 

truck hotelling activity. Hotelling is specific to activity performed by long haul combination 
AB‐4 MOVES Quick Start Guide

US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

trucks (source type 62). The Hotelling importer has two panels; both are optional. The first, 

“hotellingActivityDistribution” allows users to specify the fraction of long haul combination 

trucks (by model year) that are in extended idle mode, Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) mode, or 

engine-off mode during the modeling period. National default data are available and will be 

used if no table is imported. 

The second panel allows users to define “hotellingHours” directly to the model. In 

MOVES2014, the number of truck idle hours are based on a national allocation to the 

county-scale. The amount of idling occurring in a given county is based on long haul 

combination truck VMT on rural restricted roadways. Consequently, a county with no rural 

highway VMT for long haul combination trucks with have no hotelling hours. If local data are 

available, the importer can be used to provide these values to the model. 

Starts Importer 

MOVES2014 offers the option to import local vehicle start information. Depending on the 

data available, users can use one or more of the following panels: 

startsPerDay – defines the number of starts per day 

startsHourFraction – specifies the distribution of starts throughout the day 

startsSourceTypeFraction – allocates starts to different source types 

startsMonthAdjust – adjusts start activity by month 

importStartsOpModeDistribution – defines vehicles soak times 

starts – allows users to provide the complete starts table (by source type, dayid, modelyear, 

monthid) 

The starts importer is optional. If no data are provided, MOVES will calculate starts based on 

the user defined source type population input. 

Fuel RegionID 

A new analysis of nationwide fuel use prompted a change in how fuels are defined at the 

county-level in the default database. Instead of each county having a unique fuel supply, 

the default fuel supply is divided into fuel regions. The obvious impact of this change is that 

the fuel supply table now has a column for fuelregionID rather than countyid. Using the 

MOVES2010b to MOVES2014 converter will automatically add the appropriate fuel region ID 

to the fuel supply table. 

Fuel Usage Importer 

MOVES2014 allows users to model ethanol (E-85) in the fleet. The new fuelusage table 

specifies the fraction of E-85-capable vehicles using E-85 vs. conventional gasoline. Default 

information is available, but this input is required for running MOVES. 
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US Environmental Protection Agency ‐ MOVES User Guide 2014

Fuel Wizard 

The Fuel Wizard is a tool available in the fuels tab of the county and project data manager 

where fuel properties can be modified consistent with refinery modeling. For instance, 

changing a given fuel’s RVP should affect other properties of that fuel. The Fuel Wizard will 

correctly modify all other fuel formulation properties based on the change made to RVP. 

VMT Changes 

EPA has removed leap years from the model. The monthVMTfraction table now has no 

column for ISleapyear. 

Additionally, when populating the HPMSvtypeyear table, users should be aware that EPA has 

combined HPMS class 20 and 30 into a new 25 class. The Federal Highway Administration 

changed their definitions of 20 and 30 classes from “passenger cars” and “other 2-axel 4-

tire trucks” to “short wheelbase” and “long wheel base.” There is mapping of wheel base 

length to EPA’s regulatory classes, so, EPA has combined 20 and 30 classes into the new 25 

class to represent light-duty vehicles under 10,000 lbs. Users should not import an 

HPMSVTypeyear table with the old 20 and 30 classes into MOVES2014.