Multimodal transportation

Multimodal transport is the transport of goods using only one transport document, with the participation of at least two types of transport as carriers. The consignor at the same time is released from the need to transfer the goods from the first transport to the second, while concluding with each carrier a separate contract. Abroad such kind of transportations name still multimodal. This kind was proposed only in the seventies, and before that all companies were engaged exclusively in single-species transport. Now the services in this area are aimed at the needs of the cargo.

The multimodal transport operator is the main figure in the performance of transportation, that is, the person signing the multimodal transport contract , either acting on his own behalf as a party to the contract, or representing the interests of the consignor, however, in any case he assumes responsibility for the performance of the contract. Operators can be of two types: the first have their own transport, and the latter do not. Usually in this capacity forwarders act, however, there can be also carriers, especially if to consider, how closely transport-forwarding services in activity of forwarders and carriers were closely intertwined.

Multimodal transport is more complex in comparison with transport, fragmented by mode of transport. However, they are much easier for customers, since the consignor and consignee works with one operator offering a range of services. Customers do not need to negotiate with operators of each type of transport, as well as carriers that operate throughout the chain.

Mixed transportations are regulated in the legal aspect by transport charters and codes. Transportation is carried out on a common scheme for all modes of transport. The consignor enters into an agreement with the first carrier for the whole shipment, after which he receives a copy of the special consignment note. The second copy will accompany the cargo all the way through the investigation.

International multimodal transport is transportation using at least two types of transport, for example, it can be sea and automobile. This method of transporting cargo with a high degree of efficiency is applicable for the delivery of goods to almost anywhere in the world. With this type of transportation, it is necessary to involve a variety of types of equipment, both railway and sea cranes, with an individual logistic scheme that will be developed for each individual route.

The main advantages of this type of transportation are:

- Short terms of delivery of cargoes, since there is no need for preparation of transport, taking into account the ramification of the road infrastructure, which allows obtaining the optimal result;

- universality - it is possible to deliver almost any types of cargoes, including dangerous and oversized cargoes;

- Efficiency - it is assumed that there is a wide range of modes of transport, which provides the possibility of forming a consignment of arbitrary volumes, the transportation of which will be carried out as necessary.

Multimodal transport is a type of transportation where specialists are expected to participate in the transportation scheme. The guarantee of high-quality and efficient work is the competent preparation of documentation, legal support, as well as the correct bundling of the goods.

At its core, multimodal transport is a rather complex service, which at the moment is provided by many companies where qualified specialists work. The sender no longer needs to take care of the competence of specialists.