Commodity Flow Survey: Mapping Goods Movement
What is a Commodity Flow Survey?
A commodity flow survey collects detailed data on the movement of goods between different geographical areas, industries, and modes of transportation. It provides insights into the flow of commodities across supply chains, including origin and destination, value, weight, and transportation modes used. This data is used by businesses, governments, and researchers to analyze market trends, optimize logistics operations, and plan infrastructure investments.
Primary Data Sources: Get the Inside Scoop on Transportation and Logistics
Hey there, transportation and logistics enthusiasts! Let’s dive into the wild world of primary data sources, where we get the freshest scoop straight from the horses’ mouths (or, in this case, the trucks, trains, and ships).
BTS: The Big Brother of Transportation Data
The Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) is like the NSA of data for our industry. They’ve got their hands on everything from airline schedules to bus ridership, and they’re not afraid to spill the beans.
Census Bureau: Counting Every Shipment
If you want to know how many oranges are on their way to Florida or how many laptops are heading to California, the Census Bureau has got the goods. They even count the number of giant teddy bears shipped across state lines.
Commodity Flow Survey Providers: Tracking Trillions of Dollars
These guys are the behind-the-scenes masterminds who track the movement of trillions of dollars’ worth of goods every year. They’re the ones who can tell you if your new shoes are coming from China or Mexico.
Transportation and Logistics Companies: Filling in the Gaps
Transportation and logistics companies have a wealth of data that can help us understand how the industry works. From truck routes to shipping times, they’ve got it all.
Shippers and Carriers: The Source of the Action
Who better to tell us about the transportation and logistics landscape than the people who are living it every day? Shippers and carriers provide valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of our industry.