Minnesota Freight Network Optimization Tool (FNOT)
Authorized by the Minnesota Legislature in 2021, the Minnesota Freight Network Optimization Tool (FNOT) is a publicly-accessible online platform that provides both public and private sector users with the ability to analyze and visualize freight data, run optimization scenarios to explore market demands for new freight facilities or services, and examine supply chain improvements.
The tool was implemented in a joint project with the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT), Minnesota IT Services (MNIT), and the Minnesota Department of Employment & Economic Development (DEED) using Quetica optimization technologies and data solutions.
With FNOT, users can analyze freight demand and benchmarks, visualize commodity flows, and explore “what-if” scenarios for opportunities to:
- Lower shipping costs and increase economic competitiveness.
- Identify market opportunities and support projected growth.
- Improve supply chain network performance, address constraints, and inefficiencies.
- Reduce highway congestion, emissions, and truck-related crashes, while lessening road maintenance and capital expenditures.
- Anticipate the impact of changes in economic conditions or new infrastructure investments.
MnDOT launched FNOT in November 2025. Users can test drive the new prototype tool at https://fnot.dot.state.mn.us and start exploring the opportunities!
