Methodology for expert evaluation of multimodal cargo transportation routes

Abstract

Summary. The multimodal transportation of transit cargo is suitable for implementation through Bulgaria in the East-Northwest direction through the sea and river ports of the country as an alternative to the Romanian and Greek routes. Among the multimodal routes with a land leg through Bulgaria used and known so far, those via two seaports (Burgas and Varna) and three river ports (Ruse, Svishtov and Vidin) are most suitable. An expert evaluation methodology for selection of the most appropriate route is developed, including the Delphi method. A survey was conducted among 11 highly ranked and internationally recognized Bulgarian experts, known for their exceptional experience in the field of freight forwarding and international cargo transportation through Bulgaria. The results of the study show that the most suitable route for transit transportation is through the ports of Varna and Ruse with intermediate road haulage.