Information inaccuracy and flow disturbances in transport process – a micro and small Polish road freight transport enterprises perspective

The specificity of micro and small road freight transport companies seems evident and is reflected, among others, in limited resources. However, they have to face challenges to remain competitive on the market and fulfil rising expectations. The aim of this paper is to identify and assess the importance of the main problems related to the flow of information during the execution of the transport order. As one of the components having an impact on transport process effectiveness, problems related to the frequency, content, medium and coverage of initially and real-time provided information, deriving from, among others, lack of digital tools, information gaps, human errors or manual processing, are considered. In the paper, the results of qualitative and quantitative research using in-depth individual interviews (IDIs) and the Computer Assisted Web Interview (CAWI) technique are presented. Based on the exploratory factor analysis, eight key problem areas related to delivery site information gaps, missing information on transport orders and client requirements, delays in invoice issuance and billing, incorrect cargo information, missing documents or incorrect data in documents, outdated or inaccurate data, timing and process delays, as well as problems of missing information in client registration and transport monitoring were identified. The framework for the improvement of the information-related aspect in transport effectiveness is provided.