Reducing total freight transport by reducing product volumes and unnecessary packaging, and by relying on more local products. Changing freight delivery times to reduce congestion. Because of their size, freight trucks impose relatively high congestion, road wear, accident risk, air pollution and noise costs, so travel reductions can provide significant benefits. Heavy truck traffic is particularly concentrated on certain corridors, such as major highways and around ports, rail terminals and industrial areas. There are many ways to encourage more efficient freight delivery.
Some strategies involve public planning and investments.
For example, transportation and port authorities can improve intermodal transfer facilities, making it easier to shift loads from trucks to rail and water transport. Governments can institute Pricing Reforms such as Weight-Distance Charges that encourage more efficient freight transport. Private companies can improve their logistics. Businesses can create cooperative distribution networks that consolidate loads, and develop services such as electric vehicle or bicycle delivery networks. The potential for reducing freight traffic varies depending on location and what strategies are used.