Rosenthal, Franziska (TU Dortmund University), Dellbrügge, Marius (TU Dortmund University), Clausen, Uwe (TU Dortmund University)

Disruptions in Rail Freight Transport: A Framework for Classification and Evaluation

Scheduled for presentation during the Invited Session "S16a-Control, Communication and Emerging Technologies in Smart Rail Systems" (TH-LM-T16), Thursday, November 20, 2025, 10:50−11:10, Southport 1

2025 IEEE 28th International Conference on Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITSC), November 18-21, 2025, Gold Coast, Australia

This information is tentative and subject to change. Compiled on October 18, 2025

Abstract

The shift of freight transport from road to rail is a key strategy for enhancing environmental sustainability, reducing traffic congestion, and improving safety and economic efficiency. Despite these benefits, the share of rail freight transport within the European Union has stagnated over the past decade, while road freight has continued to rise. A major factor contributing to this stagnation is the insufficient reliability of rail freight, often compromised by various disruptions. This paper develops a comprehensive framework for classifying and evaluating disruptions in rail freight transport, addressing a gap in existing research. A structured literature review is conducted to systematically identify and categorize different types of disruptions, management approaches, their durations, causes, and impacts. The study aims to answer three key research questions regarding the management, types, and reasons for disruptions in rail freight. The results highlight critical areas for future research and provide a foundation for improving the resilience and reliability of rail freight transport systems. The paper outlines potential directions for further study to support the modal shift from road to rail.