MECHANISMS FOR IMPROVING THE EFFICIENCY OF THE INTERNATIONAL ROAD TRANSPORT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

Abstract

Objective. The study focuses on the problem of improving the organizational and legal mechanisms for managing international road freight transport (IRFT). The relevance is driven by the need to bridge the gap between classical management approaches and modern challenges of digitalization, regulatory tightening, and geopolitical turbulence, which require systemic solutions to enhance the efficiency and competitiveness of the industry. Materials and Methods. The methodology is based on the application of a systems approach, comparative legal and institutional analysis. The empirical base includes data from international indices (Logistics Performance Index), regulatory acts (CMR Convention, TIR Convention) and an analysis of current regulatory trends for the 2025–2026 period, including changes in customs and environmental regulations. Results. A concept for an IRFT development strategy was developed as a multi-level plan based on a comprehensive diagnosis of the external environment and the company’s internal competencies. The structure of key organizational and legal mechanisms ensuring the integration of operational activities, strategic planning, and legal support has been systematized. The strategic challenges of the near future have been identified and analyzed: forced digital transformation (implementation of systems such as Pre-Arrival Information System, ELO, ICS2), increased fiscal pressure (rising customs duties), and tightening environmental standards (CBAM, Euro VII). It has been proven that sustainable competitive advantage in the field of IRFT is achieved not through isolated operational optimization, but through the formation of adaptive organizational and legal mechanisms. Conclusion. These mechanisms must ensure continuous synchronization of business strategy with the dynamic digital and legal environment. The practical significance of the work lies in providing companies and regulators with a scientifically based toolkit for building transparent, sustainable, and compliant management systems for international road freight transport that meet new global requirements.