Is policy the underlying cause of all post-disaster freight transport constraints?

Purpose This explorative study investigates the role of policy in freight transport systems and its implications for post-disaster freight movement. Using a qualitative scenario-based approach in the context of Aotearoa New Zealand, it examines how policy-related underlying causes affect freight performance after a major natural disaster. Design/methodology/approach Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 30 industry and policy experts, followed by a thematic analysis to identify the key constraints in the post-disaster transport system under study. Building on the Theory of Constraints' theoretical perspective that most constraints within a system originate from policy-related root causes, a Current Reality Tree was built to capture and visualise these constraints, their cause-and-effect relationships, and their root causes. Findings The analysis identifies a complex web of interconnected constraints and causal relationships, revealing 18 underlying root causes that drive cascading and escalating effects across the freight system. These root causes trace back to six policy areas: government funding, infrastructure governance, emissions policy, land use and development, labour policy, and information governance. Originality/value This research shows that the performance of post-disaster transport systems is strongly influenced by government policy. Addressing key policy areas can enhance freight resilience, support continuity in the movement of goods, and ensure availability for production, trade, and consumption after a natural disaster.