In this article we have developed a framework for discussing the influence of different aspects of intermodal transport on generalized transport costs. Generally, the distance transported by truck in pre-and post haulage, does not influence whether intermodal transport is preferred. Moreover, the long-haul distance required to make intermodal transport preferable increases when (1) handling costs at terminals increases, (2) total transport distance increases, (3)pre- and post haulage costs increase, (4) distance dependent marginal generalized costs for the long-haul increases, (5) the distance dependent marginal generalized costs for truck decreases and (6) reduced resting costs for truck drivers. The model is linked to the context of transport of fresh fish from Norway to Continental Europe. Much of the fish is produced in the northern parts of Norway with sufficiently long distance to the main markets to make intermodal transport viable. The results from the model show that the following measures can be taken by policymakers to make intermodal transport solutions better alternatives relative to unimodal transport by truck: (i) Promote cross-border standardization of intermodal equipment to make terminal operations more efficient.
(ii) Reduce transport costs for vehicles specially designated to pre- and post haulage in urban areas. (iii) Give freight trains increased priority in the rail network in order to reduce the distance dependent marginal generalized costs for rail. (iv) Implement additional charges on road transport to increase the distance dependent marginal generalized costs for trucks. (v) Stricter enforcement of resting regulations, in order to increase the cost of long-haul freight transport by truck and make intermodal transport more competitive for shorter distances. These measures will if implemented, contribute to the attainment of a sustainable European transport sector based on a more energy efficient freight transport sector.