THE COST AND NON-COST CONDITIONALITY OF TRANSPORT CORRIDOR LOGISTICS PERFORMANCES AS DETERMINANT OF PORT COMPETITIVENESS

Abstract

Transport corridor logistics performances are largely influenced by the transportation cost, but at the same time the non-cost elements play a significant role, which sometimes can be crucial. This paper examines the conditionality of logistics performances of transport corridor with cost and non-cost factors related to transport corridor where the port is located, in order to provide measurable basis for assessing the port hinterland as a competitiveness determinant of the port itself and transport route in general. From a methodological point of view, the authors systematize the key cost related factors and qualitatively determine key non-cost related factors as well as the most common ordinal size of their impact intensity. The authors also elaborate on possible models of evaluation and assessment of the impact intensity of cost and non-cost elements that determine transport corridor logistics performances. The authors conclude that the impact intensity of cost and non-cost factors affecting the transport corridor logistics performances is variable in size and largely dependent on political factors and hinterland development. That is a substantial determinant of port competitiveness.

Key words: transportation costs, port competitiveness, logistics performances, transport corridors