Intermodal Transport – A Bibliometric Analysis of Contemporary Research Trends in Regulatory Approaches and Sustainability Strategies

Regulatory approaches in intermodal transport are policy-driven frameworks and legal instruments that promote modal shift and sustainability by addressing barriers such as infrastructure deficiencies, pricing mechanisms, terminal accessibility, and coordination among public and private stakeholders. Contemporary research in intermodal transport is fragmented, as varied approaches and themes make it challenging for scholars and industry practitioners to form a clear vision of current regulatory approaches. To address this gap, this study conducts a bibliometric analysis of 84 articles regarding regulatory approaches in intermodal transport. The articles were published in 49 academic journals and authored by 185 scholars. The application of the bibliographic coupling methodology in the VOSviewer software enabled the identification of four clusters: (1) sustainable strategies in intermodal freight transport; (2) modal shift in intermodal freight transport; (3) integration and optimisation in intermodal freight transport; (4) decision-making and policy tools for intermodal transport. Content analysis results highlight infrastructure reforms, collaborative governance, and legal and regulatory measures as critical approaches to enhance modal shift efficiency and strengthen intermodal freight transport systems. The findings offer a scientifically robust foundation for scholars and industry practitioners aiming to improve their understanding of how regulatory approaches and possibilities can strengthen intermodal transport systems.