Multimodal transportation is the transportation of goods using different types of transport within the framework of one contract. We are talking about the use of two or more transport options to deliver one batch of goods. This is often the most profitable solution in cases where there is no direct connection between the points of departure and receipt. Logisticians create the optimal route and select the most efficient transport at each stage of the route. The scheme often involves vehicles belonging to different companies.

Multimodal transportation of goods is the most popular service in the field of logistics, which is associated with production needs. Thus, seaports, airports, railway stations are located at a distance from warehouses, trade and industrial enterprises, which makes it necessary to additionally involve road transport in all cases when goods are transported by rail, sea and air lines.

Multimodal transportation: features

To understand the question of what multimodal transportation is, you need to understand the specifics of logistics processes. More than 90% of all cargo transportation is carried out on a mixed principle. The ability to deliver cargo “door to door” is only available when using motor transport. Motor transport is almost always used within the framework of multimodal schemes. Other features:

• One contract and a combination of different types of transport – rail, road, sea, air. The customer enters into an agreement with one logistics company, which undertakes to select and hire the best types of transport. The logistics company with which the agreement is signed is responsible for the safety and timely delivery.
• Adaptation to current requirements and conditions. As the distance increases, the feasibility of using rail, air and sea transport increases. Transportation by trucks on international routes is sometimes impossible or associated with large expenditures of time.
• Search for the best types of transport and solutions. The distance from the starting point to the final destination is divided into several segments, each of which uses a certain type of transport. With an increase in the number of segments, the cost decreases and the duration of cargo transportation increases. The logistician needs to find a compromise that is beneficial for the customer.

An important component of the success of a multimodal transport system is the coordination and synchronization of work processes within a single project. Only through the professional and precise work of logisticians can we establish interaction between different types of transport, which often belong to different owners. Multimodal transportation is a complex algorithm of actions that requires thoughtful decisions from a logistician:

• Coordination of train, ship, ferry, and airliner schedules to prevent downtime and delays of cargo en route.
• Correct execution of permits and accompanying documents taking into account each type of transport that is planned to be used.
• Consideration of legal norms in force in the territory of the states through which the goods are to be transported.

To ensure that cargo delivery in Ukraine and to international destinations goes smoothly and without delays, it is worth contacting professionals. The main task of a good logistician is to ensure consistency, safety, legality, and continuity of the transportation process.

Multimodal cargo transportation involves the use of different types of transport on certain sections of the route. The result of this approach is the efficiency and flexibility of logistics processes. Thanks to the ability to combine different means of transport, cargo can be delivered to any point on the globe, taking into account the available transport infrastructure.

Multimodal transportation: advantages

Multimodal cargo transportation is an economically advantageous solution that allows customers to optimize financial costs and increase business profitability. Thanks to rational route planning and selection of the optimal transport at each stage of the route, transportation costs are reduced. Thus, cargo transportation by rail is economically justified over long distances. To deliver goods “to the door”, road transport is used. Other advantages of multimodal transportation:

• Reduced time costs. Choosing the optimal route helps to reduce travel time. Thus, if there is a water connection, it is advisable to use river and sea vessels over a greater distance of the route, which speeds up the process of delivery of goods.
• Logistic flexibility – choosing the best solutions taking into account the type of cargo. Thus, transportation of perishable goods requires maximum acceleration. In this case, cargo transportation by air to the airport of the destination and then by trucks to the final point is justified.
• Reducing commercial risks. A competent approach to organizing the delivery process using different modes of transport reduces the likelihood of damage to goods en route. Thus, logisticians minimize delays en route, promptly making adjustments to the route in the event of unforeseen circumstances (strikes, accidents and road repairs, bad weather conditions).
• Simplification of document flow. Despite the involvement of different modes of transport, the owner of the cargo enters into only one contract with a single logistics company. One waybill is issued to accompany the cargo along the entire route to the destination.
• Personalization of responsibility. Responsibility for the safety and timely delivery of goods is borne by one logistics company, which significantly simplifies the process of resolving disagreements and conflicts, if necessary.

Multimodal transportation allows you to use the services of different transport companies without increasing the volume of organizational issues. Entrust the work to a reliable transport company to avoid endless negotiation processes and the execution of several service contracts with different carriers. The specialists of the Neolit ​​Logistic company approach the solution of the problem professionally:

• develop the optimal route;
• select the most effective and rational types of transport;
• execute the necessary documents;
• organize the agreed transfer of cargo from one carrier to another.

As a result, your goods are delivered safe and sound to the required point within the timeframe strictly specified in the contract. The clients of the Neolit ​​Logistic company manage to avoid red tape, technical problems, non-compliance with contractual obligations, downtime due to lack of raw materials and other resources.

Multimodal transportation: types

Multimodal transportation involves using the advantages of different types of transport. The combination of different types of transport allows you to adapt the logistics process taking into account the geographical features and needs of the client. The main types of multimodal transportation:

• Automobile. The most convenient. Allows you to deliver goods on a door-to-door basis.
• Railway. One of the most economical options. However, delivery times depend on the schedule.
• Water. It is distinguished by its economic efficiency and rationality. Suitable for regions with developed waterways.
• Air. The fastest and most expensive way to deliver goods.

As part of route optimization, the logistician uses two or more modes of transport. The logistics chain includes several transshipment points where intermediate storage, unloading from one vehicle and loading onto another takes place. Transshipment points are represented by consolidation warehouses, seaport terminals, airports, and railway stations. Accompanying and permitting documents are prepared taking into account the mode of transport. Popular combinations of transport:

• Sea and land. Combines the economic efficiency of the first and the flexibility of the second.
• Rail and land. The scheme is ideal for delivering large consignments of goods over long distances.
• Air and land. The best solution for transporting perishable goods.

In the case of intercontinental multimodal transportation, one cannot do without sea or air transport, which is combined with other modes that are most suitable for specific conditions. The key points of success for any combination are effective planning and subsequent coordination.

Multimodal transportation: why it is profitable

Entrepreneurs who are looking for an answer to the question of what multimodal transportation is, confidently increase the profitability and profitability of their business. This format of cargo transportation plays a decisive role in optimizing the supply chain. Why it is worth ordering multimodal cargo transportation:

• The ability to quickly respond to changes in market infrastructure.
• Timely and precise fulfillment of obligations to business partners anywhere in the world.
• Increasing competitiveness by quickly responding to changes in demand, the emergence of new products, promotions and advantageous offers.

The use of multimodal transportation is an important factor in commercial success, which, along with motivation, mission, strategy and other components, increases the competitiveness of a business.

Multimodal transportation: why you should contact professionals

Multimodal transportation is a complex process that requires a logistician to have special knowledge, experience and extraordinary intellectual abilities. The specialist’s responsibilities include developing the best route and selecting transport for each segment of the route, taking into account the influencing factors:

• Availability of road and transport infrastructure in the region.
• Type and conditions of cargo storage.
• Weather conditions.
• Possible obstacles on the road.
• Checkpoints and customs clearance.

The logistician monitors the situation throughout the entire period of cargo transportation and makes adjustments if necessary. Synchronization and coordination in the actions of different carriers are important. The specialist responsible for delivery promptly informs the participants in the cargo transportation, agrees on the terms and cost of delivery, and monitors the performance of the work.

The logistician needs to provide for possible backup options for situations when the transport schedule changes. Professionals use numerous tools to organize and track logistics processes. These are GPS and monitoring systems, software for centralized warehouse management.

International multimodal cargo transportation requires special preparation and attention. If goods are transported through several countries, the logistician needs to take into account the customs regulations and laws of each of them.

Multimodal transportation: where to order

The company “Neolit ​​Logistic” offers multimodal transportation services within Ukraine and to international destinations. Why choose us:

• Professionalism – experienced logisticians who can handle any task set by the customer.
• Our own fleet of vehicles – trucks for different loads.
• Responsibility and strict compliance with contractual obligations.
• Assistance in preparing a package of documents – forget about paperwork.
• Cargo insurance – protection against financial losses.
• Support – a guarantee of the safety of material assets.

The cost of delivery of goods is calculated individually, depending on the distance, type of cargo, types of transport involved in transportation. We maintain stable prices without constant increases – the customer pays the amount specified in the contract. Tell us where you need to deliver the goods – we will do the job efficiently and in the shortest possible time.