Research and analysis

Freight modelling: methodology think pieces

A set of independent think pieces to inform the development of a new national freight transport model.

• From: Department for Transport
• Published: 30 July 2026

Documents

Base year freight matrices for a national freight transport model

PDF, 365 KB, 49 pages

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Freight data and innovation for a national freight transport model

PDF, 155 KB, 23 pages

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Freight demand forecasting for a national freight transport model

PDF, 720 KB, 32 pages

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Inclusion of light goods vehicles in a national freight transport model

PDF, 1.02 MB, 49 pages

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Details

A series of think pieces that consider key methodological areas supporting the development of a new national freight transport model. 

Independent experts provided the studies, which examine:

• potential approaches
• data requirements
• methodological considerations

The findings are intended to inform future model development and specification. 

These think pieces were produced on behalf of the Department for Transport by:

• John Bates (independent consultant)
• Ian Williams (independent consultant)
• Jacobs
• Significance

Published 30 July 2026