The use of multimodal shipping is not a new concept.
On the surface, multimodal shipping refers to the contractual arrangements, rather than shipping mode itself, that allows carriers to move between modes without changing the contract with the carrier. Intermodal takes the process and creates complexity within true multimodal shipping to leverage both multiple modes and multiple carriers throughout the shipment journey.
While this may seem like unnecessary complexity, the application of multimodal shipping offers significant benefits that help shippers and logistics service providers (LSPs) realize cost savings, better freight rating, and timeliness of delivery. In addition, the use of a multimodal transportation management system (TMS) will go even further in promoting savings.
Shippers and LSPs gain these five benefits in using a multimodal transport supported by TMS, ultimately resulting in continuous improvement and performance measurement to validate and guarantee real results.