Multimodal Shipping Vs Intermodal Shipping

1. Multimodal Shipping Vs Intermodal Shipping In the operation of your import/export business, you need to ship products frequently. And for shipping of the same, you have two models – Multimodal and Intermodal. Most of you get confused and find yourself unable to select the right one. Have a look at the definition of both shipping modals first before moving forward to know the differences and decide the best one: Multimodal shipping It is also acknowledged as combined transport and offers the transfer of goods using various transport modes under a single contract. The company offering logistics or shipping services is responsible for the entire transfer of products from your end to your client’s address; even it has to use different modes of transportation (road, rail, air, and water). Your contractor has an association with all the allied partners to carry out the whole task. The firm carrying the entire job is known as a multimodal transport operator. Intermodal shipping It carries out the transportation of goods using an intermodal vehicle or container that can be a ship, rail, or truck without any handling of products itself while changing the means. It brings a decrease in cargo handling, and so enhances security, brings down shipping damage & loss, and makes the product shipment faster. Reduced cost is the primary advantage of this shipping modal. Differences Both shipping models have some differences. Have an idea about the core distinctions between them:

2. Multimodal Shipping It requires you to have one carriage contract and covers all the transportation modes from your end to your client’s end. Intermodal Shipping It requires you to have more than one contract for the shipment of your products from the origin to destination. One contract is with an ocean carrier or freight forwarder while another is with a trucker. It allows you to choose your own carrier for your product transfer and enables you to stop goods shipment at a certain point as you have control over each stage. In it, one carrier is liable for the entire process, and you have to depend on one carrier for tracing and tracking the status of your product shipment. It ensures timely delivery of consignments. Why to select one over another or vice versa? In the selection of one modal over another, you need to analyze all associated factors. Study the aspects whether the shipper allows you to have several independent contracts with many carriers, the difference in the costs of both of shipping modals, what the effects on the turnaround of inventory are, and how much time you will save in the transportation of goods and administrative coordination. Besides, you should comprehend the impact of the environment of one shipping modal over another and what affects the documentation process involved the product shipment. Conclusion You have two options for your product transfer. Before selecting any one of these two shipping modals, you should discuss each aspect with your logistics partner. Your careful and wise decision will help you make the transfer of your goods safe and save time and money.