The role of horizontal collaboration to facilitate multimodality

Purpose – The concept of multimodality has recently been extended by the aspect of horizontal collaboration and is now referred to as “synchromodality” or “Physical Internet”. The present paper analyses which role horizontal collaboration plays to promote the acceptance of multimodal transport solutions. Design/methodology/approach – A multiple-case study was conducted involving ten Logistics Service Providers (LSPs) that offer chemical transport services. The technology acceptance model was used as the theoretical foundation for scrutinizing the relationship between horizontal collaboration and multimodal transport acceptance. Findings – Horizontal collaboration increases the perceived usefulness and the perceived ease of using multimodal transport solutions and is therefore able to promote multimodal transport acceptance. Research limitations/implications – The study assumes that functioning collaborative relationships have already been set up in the transport network. The scope of this research is on chemical transport. The paper only reflects the perspective of Austrian LSPs. Practical implications – Understanding the role of horizontal collaboration allows the development of appropriate measures to promote new transport concepts such as synchromodality or the Physical Internet (PI). Originality/ Value - The paper points out concrete examples of how horizontal collaboration can facilitate multimodal transport operations. Contrary to the criticism that too many similar transport concepts evolved in the past decades, the results justify the development of concepts such as synchromodality or PI. Keywords Horizontal collaboration, multimodality, synchromodality, Physical Internet, modal shift, sustainable freight transport, chemical logistics Paper Type: Research Paper