What is Multimodal Transport?

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What is Multimodal Transport?

Multimodal transport, also known as combined transport, is a transport system that involves the movement of goods using multiple modes of transport such as trucks, rail, air and ships.

The idea behind multimodal transport is to optimize the transport of goods by using the most-efficient mode of transport for each leg of the journey and to minimize the number of times that goods must be loaded and unloaded.

Multimodal transport supports various transport systems. For example, after a cargo shipment starts by road, it can continue by sea or air. This situation includes different variations or situations depending on the location of the cargo.

Since the main logic of multimodal transport aims to increase the modes of transport and make it more efficient and cost-effective, it is generally used in long-distance transport.

In general, multimodal transport is a flexible and efficient way of transporting goods and is widely used in the logistics and transportation industry.

How is Multimodal Transport done?

Multimodal transport is the transportation of goods under a single contract but performed with at least two different modes of transport.

These delivery steps are usually as follows:

1. Goods are loaded on a truck at the point-of-origin and transported to a terminal such as a train yard or port.

2. At the terminal, goods are transferred to a train or ship for the next leg of the journey.

3. The train or ship carries the goods to the next terminal, where the goods are transferred to another truck or mode of transport for the final leg of the journey.

4. The goods are delivered to the destination.

What are the Multimodal Transport Types?

There are several types of multimodal transport that can be used to move goods from one place to another. Some common examples include:

1. Truck-Railroad

The truck-railroad method involves using both trucks and rail to transport goods. Goods are first loaded on a truck at the point-of-departure and transported to a terminal where they will be transferred to the train for the next leg of the voyage. The train then transports the goods to another terminal where they will be transferred back to a truck for the final leg of the journey.

2. Truck-Ship

The truck-ship method includes the use of trucks and ships to transport cargo. Goods are first loaded on a truck at the point-of-origin and transported to a terminal such as a port, then transferred to a ship for the next leg of the journey. The ship then transports the goods to where they will be transferred back to a truck for the final leg of the journey.

3. Railroad-Ship

The railroad-ship method refers to the transportation of goods by a train and ship combination. Goods are first loaded onto a train at the point-of-departure and transported to a terminal such as a port. They are transferred to a ship for the continuation of the voyage. The ship then transports the goods to where they will be transferred back to the train.

4. Multimodal

Multimodal involves using three or more modes of transport such as truck, train, air and ship. Goods are transferred between different modes of transport at various terminals along the way.

What are the advantages of Multimodal Transport?

1. It’s cost-effective.

Multimodal transport can often be more cost-effective than using a single mode of transport, as it allows goods to be transported longer distances in less time. This can help reduce shipping costs and increase profitability for businesses.

2. It’s efficient.

Using multiple modes of transport can be more efficient than using a single mode, as it allows goods to be transported longer distances in less time. This can help reduce shipping times and increase delivery speed.

3. It’s flexible.

Provides flexibility in the shipping process as it allows the use of multiple modes of transport to meet the needs of different types of goods and destinations.

Overall, multimodal shipping can provide several benefits for businesses looking to transport goods over long distances.