The evolution and influencing factors of digital freight structure in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei urban agglomeration: A complex network analysis perspective

Hongchang Li, Lingtong Kong and Xiaojun Zhao

Transport Policy, 2025, vol. 172, issue C

Abstract: Digital freight platforms have emerged as key enablers of efficiency in modern road transportation, particularly in integrating logistics resources and optimizing freight flows. This study examines the structural evolution and driving forces of the digital freight network in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei (BTH) urban agglomeration, drawing on complex network theory. By applying centrality indicators and the standard deviation ellipse method, we identify a shift from a centralized to a multi-centered collaborative network between 2020 and 2023, accompanied by improvements in network efficiency and spatial resilience. The empirical analysis highlights transportation infrastructure and digital economy development as the main contributors to network optimization. Infrastructure investments enhance intercity connectivity, while digitalization fosters more synchronized flows of goods and information. Based on these findings, we propose policy recommendations to advance regional multimodal integration, improve logistics corridor planning, and strengthen digital platform governance, contributing to the high-quality development of regional freight systems.

Keywords: Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei freight network; Complex network theory; Digital freight platforms; Influencing factors (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1016/j.tranpol.2025.07.036

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