- Combined transport combines different modes of transport – road, rail, water and air – in a single logistics operation, enabling cost optimisation and a reduced environmental impact.
- The operating principle is based on three phases – transport from loading to the terminal, main transport over further distances, and final delivery to the consignee.
- Advantages include cost efficiency, reduced risk of damage and flexibility – particularly beneficial in international and specialised transport such as refrigerated transport.
- The use of standardised transport units – such as containers – minimises the risk of damage to goods and increases the efficiency of logistics operations.
Combined transport is a modern method of transporting goods which combines road, rail, water and air transport in a single transport operation. The most important feature that distinguishes this solution is the use of several modes of transport. This achieves cost optimisation, increases efficiency and reduces the negative effects on the environment. Combined transport is therefore becoming an increasingly popular solution. It is mainly used in international trade. This is where cost, time and quality matter most.
The principle of combined transport
Multimodal transport services consist of combining different modes of transport in one comprehensive logistics operation. The transport process can be broken down into three phases:
- First phase – involves moving cargo from the loading point to the transport terminal using mainly road vehicles. These enable the selection of the optimal route and the appropriate adaptation to the various types of goods.
- Phase two – involves moving goods further distances using various modes of transport such as trains, aircraft or ships. This type of transport is carried out on major routes, which is more cost-effective and better for the environment compared to road transport.
- Third phase – goods are delivered to the customer , usually by road vehicles to the final destination.
The essence of combined transport is the use of standardised transport units such as containers and trailers for the rapid transfer of goods between different modes of transport in order to minimise the risk of damage.
Advantages of combined transport
Combined transport is becoming an increasingly popular solution in logistics thanks to its numerous advantages, which meet the needs of the modern market. By combining different modes of transport, it offers flexibility, cost-effectiveness and minimised environmental impact.
Cost-effectiveness
Combined transport is one of the most cost-effective methods of moving goods, mainly for long distances. Using rail or shipping to transport cargo on major routes allows a significant reduction in the cost of transport compared to road transport, which is more expensive and more susceptible to fuel price volatility. Cost optimisation in combined transport involves selecting the cheapest and most efficient mode of transport for each stage of the journey.
Less risk of damage to goods
The use of standardised transport units such as containers in combined transport reduces the number of transshipments. Each successive transshipment carries the risk of damage to the goods; however, when transported using homogeneous units at different stages of the journey, this risk is significantly reduced.
Flexibility and versatility
Multimodal transport is a highly versatile solution adapted to a wide variety of goods and individual customer needs. In the food transport industry, for example, it is crucial to use refrigerated containers to ensure the right temperature when transporting temperature-sensitive goods – such as frozen foods or fresh fruit and vegetables – and medicines.
Adherence to Incoterms rules
The Incoterms international trade rules are widely used in international transport because they precisely define the rights and obligations of the parties to a transaction. Combined transport fits perfectly into these rules. As a result, both the shipper and the consignee can be sure of the transport process.
Multimodal transport in food logistics and refrigerated transport
Multimodal transport is widely used in the food logistics industry, especially for goods that require special storage conditions. Refrigerated transport is crucial when transporting food and can be carried out either by rail, sea or road. This variety of options allows appropriate temperatures to be maintained throughout the journey from loading to destination. When transporting fresh or frozen products, refrigerated containers are essential to maintain the correct temperature for long periods of time and prevent spoilage.
Summary
Combined transport is a modern logistical solution that combines the benefits of different modes of transport and enables cost optimisation and increased transport efficiency while reducing negative environmental impacts. By using standardised transport units and flexibility in the choice of transport mode, it is possible to move cargo more efficiently. This transport is particularly conducive to the transportation of products requiring special storage conditions, such as foodstuffs requiring low temperatures.
