Monitoring of goods flows in Emilia-Romagna for the PRIT 2025

Scope of the assignment

For the Emilia-Romagna Region, we monitored goods flows using Floating Car Data. The objective was to reconstruct the Origin/Destination matrices and provide updated data to support the PRIT 2025. Furthermore, the system has enabled a clear analysis of heavy transport dynamics and the evolution of the main logistics corridors.

Data acquisition and calibration

The activities involved the acquisition and processing of data relating to vehicle classes C2 and C3. Subsequently, the datasets were integrated with MTS surveys and motorway traffic flows. Thanks to advanced methodologies, it has been possible to distinguish between domestic, exchange and transit journeys. Furthermore, the matrices were validated in the VISUM model using least squares calibration procedures.

Analysis results and consistency of flows

The study produced sample and expanded matrices with daily detail and in the 7:00–9:00 time slot. The results showed a high degree of consistency between simulated flows and observed flows. As a result, it was possible to accurately identify the main logistics corridors and points of concentration of heavy goods vehicles along the regional network.

Post-lockdown developments and operational indicators

The assignment also included monitoring trends after the 2020 lockdown. The data was compared with the years 2019 and 2018, highlighting limited variations in traffic volumes. In addition, indicators have been developed on distances, journey times and the distribution of journeys. This confirmed the resilience of regional freight transport.

Value for strategic planning

The analyses supported the definition of logistics policies for the Emilia-Romagna Region. Thanks to a data-driven approach, PRIT 2025 now has solid evidence to guide infrastructure choices. Furthermore, the results enable improved management of traffic corridors and planning of future interventions on the network.