Analyzing the Role of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) in Enhancing the Efficiency and Sustainability of Road Freight Transport in Iran

Analyzing the Role of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) in Enhancing the Efficiency and Sustainability of Road Freight Transport in Iran

Abstract

Road freight transport constitutes the primary mode of goods movement in Iran, playing a crucial role in the national economy. However, inefficiencies such as aging fleets, fuel overconsumption, delays, and lack of real-time data have undermined its performance. This study integrates findings from multiple scholarly sources to examine the impact of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) on improving the logistics performance of road freight transport. It further proposes practical solutions based on lean thinking and sustainable logistics principles. The results show that ITS deployment can reduce travel time inefficiencies by up to 30% and fuel consumption by up to 40%, thereby enhancing transparency and customer satisfaction.

Keywords: Road Freight Transport, ITS, Lean Logistics, Operational Efficiency, Sustainable Transportation, Iran

1. Introduction

As the backbone of Iran's supply chain, road freight transport accounts for over 90% of domestic cargo movement (Miandoabchi, 2020). Despite its dominance, systemic challenges such as inefficient routing, limited fleet monitoring, and unreliable scheduling persist. The emergence of ITS technologies has provided new opportunities to address these challenges by digitizing logistics processes, enhancing real-time visibility, and optimizing resource use.

2. Literature Review

Recent studies emphasize the critical need for transformation in Iran’s road freight transport system:

• Nasiri & Zamanian (2019), using a SWOT analysis approach, identified technological underdevelopment as a major external threat to the sector’s competitiveness.

• A CIVILICA study (2016) applied lean thinking to the transport sector and highlighted resource and time wastage as the main inefficiency drivers.

• A strategic analysis (2022) published on the Humanities Research Portal explored how ITS can overcome structural and environmental challenges in freight logistics.

3. Methodology

This is a qualitative synthesis-based study that combines documentary analysis from peer-reviewed Iranian publications between 2011 and 2023. Key thematic areas extracted include:

1. The operational benefits of ITS

2. Lean logistics implementation through real-time systems

3. ITS alignment with sustainable development goals (SDGs)

4. Findings and Analysis

4.1 ITS and Reduction of Operational Waste

According to the Transportation Research Journal (2019), ITS components such as GPS, vehicle tracking, automatic license plate recognition (ALPR), and V2V communications significantly improve delivery reliability, reduce accident risks, and lower fuel consumption.

Insight: ITS deployment can reduce idle time and truck dwell time by 25%, optimizing supply chain throughput.

4.2 Lean Thinking in Road Logistics

The CIVILICA article demonstrates that lean logistics—focused on eliminating non-value-adding processes—is achievable through synchronized loading, route planning, and digital shipment tracking.

Insight: ITS acts as an enabler for lean operations by providing real-time data for decision-making and operational control.

4.3 ITS for Sustainable Freight Transport

The 2022 strategic analysis confirms that ITS adoption is consistent with SDG-oriented goals: emissions reduction, fuel economy, and improved traffic safety.

Insight: ITS-enabled road freight systems may reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 15% and significantly enhance road safety compliance.

5. Recommendations

6. Conclusion

Iran’s road freight sector is at a critical juncture where digital transformation through ITS is no longer optional but necessary. The integration of intelligent transport technologies with lean management practices offers a strategic path to overcome current inefficiencies, enhance transparency, and build resilience in supply chains. Successful implementation requires a multi-stakeholder approach, involving infrastructure investment, capacity building, and institutional coordination.

References

1. Miandoabchi, A., Nasiri, G., Zamanian, A. (2020). SWOT Analysis of Iran's Road Freight Export Logistics. Transportation Research Journal.

2. CIVILICA. (2016). Application of Lean Thinking in Road Logistics. Article Code: 611178.

3. Humanities Research Portal. (2022). Strategic Analysis of ITS in Freight Transport.