Traffic Engineering
Link Counts Explained
Directional traffic data for corridors and networks.
By SWAT Alliance Editorial Team · Updated 25 August 2026
Insight at a glance
A short visual checklist for better study decisions.
Use the article as a starting point, then confirm the project-specific scope, method, review and output with the delivery team.
Question
What decision should this evidence help someone make?
Scope
Which locations, movements, classes and periods matter?
Review
How will completeness and definitions be checked?
Output
What format will make the result easiest to use?
Short answer
A link count records directional traffic crossing a defined road-section line, usually by interval and optional vehicle class.
Link versus junction movement
A link count describes passage along a road section. It does not allocate left, right or through movements at a nearby junction unless that is separately scoped.
Set the reference line
Document the direction, lanes, adjacent access points and observation boundary so each crossing is treated consistently.
Use the output
Directional interval volumes support corridor, access, route and modelling questions when the observed period and limitations are clear.
Frequently asked questions
Is a mid-block count a link count?
They can describe similar road-section work; the project should define its exact count line and output.
Can a link count be classified?
Yes, when the source and class dictionary support it.
Go deeper
Traffic Video Analysis Methodology
A controlled process for converting suitable project video into traceable traffic observations.
View Methodology →Related services