Transport System

Introduction Multimodal transport means transport of cargo from premises of shipper to those of the consignee (receiver) by more than one mode. This is the transport of merchandise using two or more means of transportation from location designated by the exporter to the location of importer, where the carrier is responsible for taking custody of merchandise.

Features of multimodal transport system. Goods mainly in international trade pass through the hands of more than one carrier and more than one mode of transport. Under conventional system of segmented transport, the consignee enters into separate contracts with each other. The liability of each carrier is limited to the carrier in limited to the carriage performed by him. The consignor or his agent has to attend to all arrangements required for transshipment of goods from one mode to another, including warehousing.

Advantages of multimodal Transport Minimizes time loss at transshipment points. Provides faster transit of goods. Reduces burden of documentation and formalities. Saves cost. Establishes only one agency to deal with.

Different types of operator Sea/Air Air/ Road (Truck) Rail/Road/Inland Waterways -Sea-Rail /Road / Inland waterways Minibridge Macrobirdge

Suppliers of transportation services It is offered by a combination of suppliers. First, government policy limited providers to single- mode operation. This restriction was designed to promote competition between modes and thus limit the potential for monopoly practices experienced in the early rail road era. The limitations were lifted following deregulation so that carriers could develop integrated intermodal services to more efficiently and effectively meet the needs of the customers.

Single - mode operators The most basic carrier type is a single-mode operator that offers service utilizing only one mode of transport mode. This degree of focus allows a carrier to become highly specialized, competent and efficient. Airlines are the example of single- mode carrier.

Specialized carrier Over the past several decades a serious problem existed in small-shipment transportation. It was difficult for a common carrier to provide a reasonably priced small-shipment service because of significant overhead cost associated with terminal and line-haul service. This overhead forced motor carriers to assign a minimum charge for handling any shipment. Railroads do not offer small-shipment service. As a result of the minimum charge and lack of low-cost rail alternatives, an opportunity existed for companies offering specialized service to enter the small-shipment or package-service market.

Package services represent an important part of transportation infrastructure, and the influence of carriers.

Basic package services Numerous carriers offer package delivery services within commercial zones of metropolitan areas. Eg- Indian Postal Services, UPS

Value added services Electronic tracking Advanced label imaging system (ALIS)-Bar Code package tracking labels for customer inquiry. Delivery confirmation service Customs clearance services On-call air pickup

Quality of service depends on various factors, are as follows- Speed Door-to-Door capability Security Safety Flexibility Avaibility.

Ranking of carrier selection determinants Rank Determinants Transit time reliability or consistency. Door –to –Door transportation rate or cost. Total Door-to-Door transit time. Willingness of carrier to negotiate rate charges. Equipment Availability. Frequency of service. Pickup and delivery service. Freight loss and damage. Quality of operating personnel.

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