Multimodal freight, also known as intermodal transportation, is a system that involves using various modes of transportation to transport goods from the point of origin to the destination. The different modes of transportation include sea, air, road, and rail. Logistics companies that offer multimodal freight services provide integrated solutions that combine different transportation modes to optimize efficiency, reduce costs, and improve delivery times.
The process of multimodal freight can be explained using an example where a shipment begins by road transport to a port, then continues by sea freight to another port, and finally transported by road or rail to the destination. Logistics providers handle the entire process, including coordination between different carriers, handling of documentation and customs procedures, and ensuring seamless transfer of cargo between modes of transport.
Multimodal freight offers advantages such as increased flexibility, enhanced reliability, and the ability to leverage the strengths of each transportation mode to meet specific shipping requirements. It is particularly beneficial for long-distance and international shipments where using a single mode of transport may not be feasible or cost-effective.