Mode choice models with attribute cutoffs analysis: the case of freight transport in the Marche region

Abstract

This paper shows that, when modelling freight demand, taking into consideration the presence of attribute cutoffs is important and has relevant repercussions on the estimates of service attributes coefficients. In this paper we focus on mode choice models for freight transport demand in the Marche region in Italy. Specific reference is paid to furniture and metallurgic productive sectors given their relevance for the region and their potential vocation for intermodal transport. Preference elicitation is done using choice based conjoint analysis. The study shows that there is a structural difference among the two sectors and that they have heterogeneous preferences.