A study of the common carrier problem takes in two inter-related subjects;(1) the growth potentialities of the concept itself consistent with modern economic trends, and (2) a study of the demand and supply conditions for transportation service as a basis for carrier development. Consistent study of these two aspects of the common carrier problem will of necessity create an intellectual movement, a set of research agenda, going beyond the scope of present research programs. From such an intel lectual movement will flow a family of studies in policy, transport markets and logistics, management, information, cost ing, and technology forecasting. It is the position of this paper that this intellectual program should be more sharply focused and better organized than the elements of intellectual tradition out of which the present common carrier problem emerged. An oflScial organization, should be legis lated to perform objective and authorita tive studies.