This paper aims to analyze existing studies on freight transport planning that use the four step model, a tool that estimates inter-zonal traffic flows considering trip generation and distribution, modal choice and flow allocation; highlighting its comprehensiveness and usefulness in supporting the country's socioeconomic development. A literature review was performed in indexed journals, theses, dissertations and technical reports, selecting 44 papers and highlighting 7 papers that fully focus on the four step model. It was verified that this model is versatile and can be used in full or partially; considering mass or vehicle flows, the latter being directly applicable to the design of traffic infrastructure; at all levels of geographical coverage (from municipalities to countries); and without limitations on the type of freight that can be transported by any of the five modes of transport or their combinations. Therefore, this model is a strategic planning tool and a support for the socioeconomic development of the country.
planning; freight transportation; four-step model