With average annual growth of 8%, multimodal transport accounts for 40.5% of goods flows in the rail sector alone. Faced with growing demand in industrial production chains, more and more professionals are opting for this method. Used properly, it is less costly, more ecological and more efficient. Here are the 5 main advantages of multimodal transport.

What is multimodal transport?

Multimodal transport, or combined transport, involves using several modes of transport to move goods from point A to point B. The aim is to capitalize on the specific advantages of each mode of transport, while reducing their disadvantages. By optimizing transport time and costs, this method considerably improves the logistics of the production and delivery chain.

How does combined transport work?

The first step is to define the optimum route for the product being shipped, based on the nature of the goods, the distances to be covered and the associated costs. Strategically located transport terminals enable goods to be transferred from one mode of transport to another. Multimodal transport relies mainly on 5 modes of transport:

1. Aircraft: ideal for urgent and costly international deliveries.

1. Rail: preferred for heavy loads over long distances.

1. Sea freight: used to move large quantities of goods at low cost.

1. Trucks: offering flexibility and efficiency, especially for the last mile.

1. River transport: suitable for bulk transport over long river distances.

The 5 main benefits of multimodal transport

Depending on theIncoterme chosen, a company is more or less responsible for transporting its goods. Opting for multimodal transport allows you to benefit from the advantages of each means of transport, to increase shipping efficiency.

1. Save time and optimize logistics performance

Multimodal transport allows us to bypass the delays associated with a single mode of transport. If the roads are jammed, goods can be redirected to sea transport. If a strike paralyzes rail transport, freight can be moved by road. This flexibility minimizes delivery delays, improving customer satisfaction. In addition, handling procedures and customs formalities are often simplified, further reducing lead times.

2. Simplify international and long-distance transport

Thanks to the diversity of modes of transport available, multimodal transport is perfectly suited to the specific requirements of the products being transported, particularly in terms of packaging. For international trade, sea or air freight is preferred, depending on the type, volume and weight of the goods. For example, fragile or precious items travel long distances by air, before being delivered locally by road. Heavy and cumbersome loads, on the other hand, are best shipped by sea or river.

3. Reduce logistics costs

Multimodal transport reduces costs by optimizing the use of resources and choosing the most economical mode of transport for each leg of the journey. Fuel costs are lowered by combining different modes of transport, and handling costs are also reduced. In addition, the use of rail or sea transport, capable of transporting large quantities over long distances, results in significant savings. The reduced number of unloading operations also reduces handling risks and associated costs.

4. Increasing cargo safety

Multimodal transport enhances shipment security. Goods are generally transported in sealed containers, reducing the risk of damage or theft. In addition, by limiting load breaks, the risk of damage to goods is minimized. Multimodal transport logistics processes are designed to ensure the safe handling of goods, from the point of dispatch to the final destination.

5. Reduce carbon footprint

Multimodal transport helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by promoting more environmentally-friendly modes of transport, such as rail, river or sea. By opting for these alternatives, companies can significantly reduce their environmental impact. According to the Groupement national des transports combinés (GNTC), rail transport emits up to 9 times less CO2 than road transport. By reducing the use of trucks, which are responsible for a large proportion of CO2 emissions, multimodal transport plays an active role in the ecological transition.

Conclusion: the future of multimodal transport

As international trade continues to grow, multimodal transport is emerging as an essential solution for companies. This method reduces costs, improves the safety of goods, and minimizes the carbon footprint. With a 9% increase in the number of intermodal transport units between 2015 and 2021, the adoption of multimodal transport should continue to accelerate, offering companies a sustainable competitive lever.

By choosing a 4PL service provider like D&fiGroupe, you can benefit from all the advantages of combined transport, while reducing your logistics costs. Let's discuss your project today.