Trade opportunities are changing along with the production capabilities of competitors and changing market demands. The economic opportunities open to communities in the Northern Great Plains are being affected by the decisions of policymakers regarding investments in infrastructure, harmonization of regulations, and incentives for growth. Freight transportation decisions in today's global trade environment are based as much on speed and reliability of delivery as they are on cost. They also reflect the demands of the consumer-customer who is purchasing products. From producer to processor to retailer to consumer, each player is attempting to manage the flow of goods to minimize the amount of time it takes at each step to reduce the overall cost of production and carrying inventory.
Predictability is another word that indicates that a system is efficient.
Because goods generally move from origin to destination without regard for state and even international borders, the efficiency of trade movement hinges on smooth and efficient transits and crossings. Transportation deficiencies or activities in one state can affect trade activities in another state. The decisions of individual states of provincial governments can significantly affect regional trade opportunities. Factors such as the availability of financial incentives, infrastructure investment policies and changes in regulatory practices often reach beyond a state or provincial boundary. And, although generally constrained by political boundaries, states and provinces can enter into multi-jurisdictional agreements and projects that are mutually beneficial.