External factors of the Rail Freight Transportation

Abstract

The aim of this study is to analyze the reason why Rail Freight has a competitive disadvantage in comparison with road transportation. Both external and internal actions are needed to improve the competitive position. Over the last decade, the demand for individualized goods has increased continuously, which has triggered changes in the structure of transported goods, the market, and the client’s expectations. Taking into consideration the importance of environmental protection, rail freight transport has a very important role in economic growth. This study concentrates on the external factors, and the necessary internal actions being analyzed in a future study.