Effective organisation, time and resource utilisation are important for successful logistics management. All these factors have a single purpose: To transport the cargo safely, cost-effectively and in the shortest possible time to the destination. At this point, combined transport plays an important role.
What is Combined Transport?
Combined transport is a logistics method carried out by combining different modes of transport. Thanks to this method, it becomes possible to transport large quantities of cargo safely and quickly. One of the most important advantages of combined transport is that the transport is carried out with at least two modes of transport from the point of origin to the destination.
Combined transport is very important in terms of reducing costs, especially in long distance transports. A more efficient transport chain can be created by combining low-cost transport modes such as maritime and rail transport with road transport. In this way, businesses can save both time and cost.
In addition, it is also possible to transport different products together in combined transport. In this way, the loads of several enterprises can be combined and transported in a single transport vehicle. This offers an economical transport method even for high-cost and low-volume loads.
Optimised transport modes are another advantage of combined transport. By combining different transport modes, the most suitable transport method is determined. This makes the transport process more efficient and saves time.
The success of combined transport is possible with the correct planning of all stages from the sender to the receiver. Each stage of the transport chain must be coordinated with a combination of technological, organisational, pricing policy and legal integration factors.
The main features of combined transport are as follows:
1. It is an inter-modal transport method.
2. Fast loading, unloading and transfer operations and thus accelerating the transport process.
3. The existence of unique chain procedures at all stages from the sender to the receiver.
4. Integration of various processes in order to rationalise the combined transport chain.
These processes are as follows:
a. Standardisation of transport containers.
b. Harmonisation of the transport system.
c. Clarification of the legal responsibility of the parties in combined transport.
d. Integration of the system.
e. Establishment of appropriate tariffs for the types of transport used.
All these features and processes are vital for the effective and efficient realisation of combined transport.
How is Combined Transport Carried Out?
Combined transport is a logistics method of great importance today. Thanks to this method, goods and cargoes can be transported quickly and safely using different modes of transport.
Combined transport operation usually includes the following processes:
1. Collection and Loading of Goods
The goods are collected from the place designated by the shipper and loaded onto the appropriate vehicle prepared by the carrier. This vehicle is then taken to the next point of transport, such as a railway station, port or other terminal.
2. Transshipment at Terminal
At the terminal, the goods are transferred to the next mode of transport. For example, loading from lorries into containers or ships is carried out. If the goods need to be transported by air, then a transfer to a suitable airport is carried out at the terminal.
3. Transport by Mode of Transport
When the goods are transported to the next terminal, they are prepared for the next mode of transport. For example, from lorry to train, from train to ship or from ship to aircraft. In this step, the goods must be correctly labelled and transported in accordance with the specified route.
4. Delivery to Destination
The final stage is the delivery of the goods to the final destination. Here, it is of great importance that the goods are delivered to the right person and at the right time. Therefore, it is necessary to plan in advance for the delivery and determine all the details in advance.
Although the combined transport operation includes the steps mentioned above, each of these steps may carry different challenges and risks. Therefore, each step must be planned and implemented correctly.
Advantages of Combined Transport
Combined transport brings many advantages. Factors such as minimising time losses due to geographical reasons and being a more rational mode of shipment for deliveries outside the economic distance are among the superior aspects of combined transport.
In addition, the possibility of serial shipment and delivery by combining partial loads with containers or other transport containers stands out as an important advantage. In this way, businesses can serve their customers faster and more efficiently, control stock levels and reduce costs.
Special loading vehicles and equipment used in combined transport also provide a great rationalisation in transport times. This not only shortens operational processing times, but also reduces total transport costs. In addition, combined transport makes it possible for goods to reach from the sender to the consignee with less paperwork.
Technological developments also have a great impact on combined transport. Combined transport has made it possible to carry out loading and unloading in a shorter time with the introduction of technological equipment. Thus, with the combined transport system based on regular line transport, regular and timely deliveries can be made at the desired place and time.
Combined transport also offers many advantages such as just-in-time production, reduction of financial and costs of the enterprise, timely delivery to the customer by providing speed in the supply of raw materials and other inputs.
Combined transport has become an indispensable element of the logistics sector today. Thanks to the many advantages and benefits it offers to businesses, combined transport increases the efficiency and competitiveness of the supply chain.
Professional Solutions in Combined Freight Transport
As Glovit Global Logistics, we minimise the costs in transport processes by offering combined transport options suitable for the needs of our customers. We ensure the satisfaction of our customers with the quality of the services we offer and our correct guidance. Thanks to our experience in the sector and our expert staff, we carry out a safe, fast and complete transport process by determining the most suitable transport methods according to the characteristics of your goods.
By combining different transport methods such as sea, road and railway in a single combined transport process, we offer our customers the most affordable costs. As Glovit Global Logistics, we are actively involved in the entire transport process for the satisfaction of our customers and we follow every step meticulously. Contact us to benefit from our combined transport and other freight transport services!