Question 1

What are the underlying differences between the linehaul and shorthaul cost segments?

Accepted Answer

Linehaul operations are based on the assumption that vehicles are fully loaded at origin and fully unloaded at destination. In contrast, shorthaul operations consist of consolidation and/or distribution activities. In addition, vehicle types in linehaul consist of heavy vehicles such as articulated trucks and B-Doubles, while vehicle types considered in the shorthaul segment are mainly rigid vehicles.

Question 2

Which Index is the most appropriate in determining cost changes in each of the segments?

Accepted Answer

For both the segments, the Total Index, which is the sum of all the cost categories; is the appropriate index to use. The Transport Consumer Price Index and Rates Index are price indices and are provided solely for comparison purposes and an indicator of segment profitability over time.

Question 3

What are the sources of data feeding into the indices?

Accepted Answer

The data is derived from public domain sources and supplemented by internal surveys.

Question 4

What is the time lag in reporting a particular quarter?

Accepted Answer

Currently, there is an up to 2.5 month lag in reporting a particular quarter. This is due to the dependence on some source data from the National Accounts as published by the Australian Bureau of Statistics each quarter. Clients receive update email alerts once file is uploaded.

Transport and Distribution Solutions

TransEco Road Freight Cost Indices (TRFCI) – FAQs

Transport and Distribution Solutions

TransEco Road Freight Cost Indices (TRFCI) – FAQs

1. What are the underlying differences between the linehaul and shorthaul cost segments?

2. Which Index is the most appropriate in determining cost changes in each of the segments?

3. What are the sources of data feeding into the indices?

4. What is the time lag in reporting a particular quarter?