B-1-3- Multimodal transport, intermodal transport and combined transport


With experience in international trade, we can see that transport dispatch logistics can be complex. Getting from point A to point B using a single mode of transportation is not often sufficient.

Getting to a port or an airport, necessitates the use of an additional mode of transport other than the main transport. This becomes three-staged transport, the pre-transport, the main transport and the post-transport.

1-3-1- Designations

Professionals often tailor multimodal transport to how it will be utilized. It's therefore necessary to clarify what is meant by "multimodal transport." Mutltimodal transport uses at least two different modes of transportation.

Intermodal transport uses at least two different modes of transport without loading or unloading goods from containers.

Combined transport is intermodal, with the main course taking place in Europe. It is carried out using land, maritime or rail transport in brief route terminals. This type of transport brings about discussion of the MTO (Multimodal Transport Operator).

1-3-2- Different types of multimodal transport

We can distinguish between multimodal:
  • bimodal transport,
  • intermodal transport,
  • piggyback transport,
  • sea/air tranport,
  • RO/RO (Roll On/ Roll Off) transport,
  • sea-river transport, which itself is also combined transport.

1-3-3- Multimodal transport and Incoterms

The term "multimodal transport" is now used by the ICC (International Chamber of Commerce) for the Incoterms. The ICC (International Chamber of Commerce) has divided the Incoterms into two groups, maritime and multimodal transport and other transports.

1-3-4- Constraints related to multimodal transportation

There are important constraints related to multimodal transport. It is advisable to get expert assistance from a freight forwarder concerning Incoterms, customs formalities, transport documents and insurance.