Dynamics of the spatial distribution of hubs in groupage networks - The case of Berlin

Abstract

This paper analyses the development of the spatial distribution of hubs in freight forwarding groupage networks in Berlin and the surrounding municipalities of Brandenburg over the last two decades, and the reasons underlying it. From 1994 to 2014 the mean distance between groupage networks and their respective barycentres increased by 34%. While the number of locations <10 km from Berlin city centre decreased significantly, the number of locations over 10 km from the city centre but under 30 km away increased. The main reasons found for the relocation of the logistics hubs that were analysed were a lack of large expanses of industrial land in Berlin, and the quest for good infrastructure connections to motorways and federal highways.