An application of Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) for measurement modeling on rail freight performance indicators: Case study on Thailand's new double-track railway

Abstract

The main objective of this research is to formulate a measurement model encompassing rail freight performance indicators for newly established double-track railway routes through the application of Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA). Employing a questionnaire as the primary data collection tool, this study specifically focuses on factors related to rail freight performance. The sample size comprises 150 entrepreneurs, including Logistics Service Providers (LSPs), warehouse operators, and distribution center operators. The performance indicators utilized in this investigation, derived from an extensive literature review, constitute the relevant factors. Subsequently, the performance indicators of rail freight transportation were analyzed using Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA). The findings indicate a consistent alignment between the proposed model and empirical data (χ2 = 244.728, χ2 /df = .967, df = 253, p = .634, GFI = .990, AGFI = .970, CFI = 1.000, RMR = .036, RMSEA = .000). Based on the result of the proposed measurement model, the most significant performance indicator is Cost (transportation costs), exerting considerable influence on entrepreneurs in their selection of transportation modes. Other indicators, namely, Time (transportation time), Reliability, Network (rail network accessibility), Security, Facility and Equipment, are deemed secondary factors. Consequently, organizations responsible for the operation of double-track railways must prioritize attention to these indicators to incentivize entrepreneurs to opt for rail transportation, thereby augmenting the volume of the rail transport mode.