Read the passage below and evaluate the subsequent statement:
Passage:
To alleviate acute highway congestion and lower freight emissions along industrial corridors, state transport planners have mandated that public logistics hubs shift a portion of bulk cargo to inland waterway barges. Supporters emphasize that barge transport consumes significantly less fuel per ton-kilometer than heavy trucking, lowering direct line-haul energy costs. However, critics highlight that inland vessels face seasonal draft limitations and slower travel speeds. Additionally, cargo originating at inland factories still requires road transport to reach river jetties. Consequently, the author argues that unless terminal handling and transshipment charges are kept substantially lower than highway toll fees, freight operators will continue to prefer direct road transport despite the fuel savings of barges.
Statement: The author's argument relies on the underlying assumption that overall door-to-door freight cost, rather than fuel efficiency alone, is the primary factor determining a freight operator's choice of transport mode.
Answer: Answer