Pipeline Marine Rail Truck
Volumes Large Very large Small Large
Materials Crude / Products Crude / Products Products Products
Scale 2 ML+ 10 ML+ 100 kL 5-60 kL
Unit costs Very low Low High Very high
Capital costs High Medium Low Very low
Access Very limited Very limited Limited High
Responsiveness 1-4 weeks 7 days 2-4 days 4-12 hours
Flexibility Limited Limited Good High
Usage Long haul Long haul Medium haul Short haul

Source: adapted from Ken Dymock (2007) General Manager, Distribution, Petro Canada, Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, Transportation Situation & Outlook Conference.

Modes Used for Petroleum Transportation

Copyright © 1998-2008, Dr. Jean-Paul Rodrigue, Dept. of Economics & Geography, Hofstra University. For personal or classroom use ONLY. This material (including graphics) is not public domain and cannot be published, in whole or in part, in ANY form (printed or electronic) and on any media without consent. Permission MUST be requested prior to use.