Which transports are combined
As combined transports, also called intermodal or multimodal, are defined those in which a passive transportation vehicle is used to transport the active transportation vehicle in which the goods are loaded. In combined transports, the modes of transport can be two or more.
Types of combined transports according to the number of accompanying documents
- combined transports in ordinary documentation – they use separate documents
- combined transports in direct documentation – they use a single document for transport
Types of combined transports according to the technological means
According to the type of technological means and their construction, the combined transports are carried out with the following systems:
- pallet and packaging systems
- container systems
- combination between road trailers and rail platforms, or the so-called “rolling road”
- barge navigation systems
- ferry systems
- trailer-haul and roll-trailer systems
- lift truck transport systems
Advantages of combined transports
- Reduction of the cost of transports
The main advantage of intermodal transport used in freight is reducing their cost. This reduction is achieved thanks to using different types of transport to select the most optimal for the given part of the transport path. For maximum efficiency, it may be necessary to wait for loading and to utilize transports to the maximum extent.
- Providing the possibility for a given forwarder to organize various activities related to transportation
Another advantage of intermodal transport is the possibility for one forwarder to carry out a wide range of activities.
- Avoiding the problems that accompany road transport
With intermodal transports, a number of problems mainly related to road transport are also avoided. These problems are caused by traffic jams and accidents, in which vehicles are damaged and people are injured or killed. Traffic congestion leads to delays, which cause problems due to failure to meet the delivery deadline.
- Reducing the imbalance that exists between modes of transport, especially in Europe
In addition, on a European scale a serious imbalance between the various modes of transport has been established, with over 70% of transports being carried out by road transport. With combined transports this imbalance is reduced. Depending on the route to the final destination, road transports can be combined with other modes of transport, using other types of transport – sea or air, which offer the necessary speed of transport or the most optimal price for transporting the given goods.
- Reducing the harmful impact on the environment and the damages caused by road transport through pollution
Through combined transports, cleaner types of transport are also used, for example, waterways. Thus, compared with transports solely using road transport, the harmful impact on the environment is reduced and less damage is caused by pollution from emitting harmful gases.
Priority development of individual types of transport in the European Union for the maximum use of combined transports
For broader use of the advantages of combined transports, the development of transport in the European Union has important priorities. The greatest attention is paid to investment and development of rail, inland waterway, and maritime transport. In this way, pan-European transport corridors will be built. The intermodal transport system will use intermodal terminals as anchor points to achieve greater efficiency, safety, and environmental friendliness of traffic.