From a managerial practice perspective, this research has also demonstrated
that there are WTP factors that can be exploited by rail transport
providers that offer faster door-to-door service than competing service offerings
and by shipping lines focusing on improvements to overall service by integrating
last mile activities into the service offering. In other words, the
preference for road transport has also been tied to the value placed on meeting
delivery windows at the destination. For coastal shipping operators, close
attention to headhaul versus backhaul markets can offer advantages in developing
new services.