Top Four Modes of Transport

What are the Top Modes of Transport

Air, Road, Sea and Rail. These are the four major modes of transport (or types) in the logistics industry. Which method you use will depend on what you’re shipping, where you’re shipping from and where you’re shipping to.

Even then, more than one method may be suitable. That’s why it’s important to understand the advantages and disadvantages for each mode of transport.

Depending on your requirements you will also need to determine which mode of transport has the largest carrying capacity.

Read on as we explain and explore each mode of transport in detail and where they work best while giving you an industry overview.

Road Freight

Road freight is a popular choice for transporting for all manner of goods across the globe. It’s particularly suited to situations where products are being transported across borders and for final-mile delivery to customers’ doors.

It’s a common choice in countries like the USA and Canada, where road freight accounts for the majority of transport, and it can be used in combination with every other mode of transport on this list.

What are the benefits of road freight

• There are fewer restrictions on road freight compared to air or sea freight.
• Trucks are easier to track than ships or planes – GPS can let you know where they are at all times
• It’s one of the most financially economical modes of transport
• It’s highly accessible. Every country in the world has a road network. That can’t be said for sea or rail networks
• It’s easy to organise specialist transportation based on your products. Road freight can accommodate hazardous materials, perishable goods and just about anything else
• Door-to-door transport is possible when correctly planned
• It’s easy to adjust routes and timings if necessary
• Uncomplicated packing, shipping and offloading process

 

Sea Freight

Sea freight accounts for the vast majority of the world’s trade. More than 90% of all goods are transported by ships.

For an idea of scale: Statista report the 10 largest container ports are responsible for more than 247m TEU throughput in 2021

That’s because ships can carry significantly heavier loads than air freight at a fraction of the cost. As a result, it’s the preferred choice for transporting bulk materials like agricultural produce and raw materials.

What are the benefits of sea freight

•  It’s the best way to transport large and heavy goods. Cargo ships can carry thousands of tons, making them perfect for oversized or bulk products
• It’s cheaper than air transportation. And also more environmentally friendly 
• Minimal handling is required 
• Slow-moving vessels mean goods are less likely to be damaged
• Shipping is rarely impacted by weather conditions
• It has the highest carrying capacity of all freight options
• Sea freight the largest carrying capacity

Air Freight

Air freight is the go-to choice for speedy delivery. It’s accessible all over the world and a convenient method to move smaller shipments long distances. Given that most major cities have an airport, air freight also lets businesses ship to specific areas or regions.

What are the benefits of air freight:

• Speed is the biggest benefit of air freight. It’s rare for flights to suffer more than a few hours delay and air freight allows for a much more direct route than road, sea or rail
• The fixed schedule of air freight makes them a reliable choice
• Security is much higher with air freight than other modes of transport, packages often receive the most rigorous protection measures
• The reduced risk of air freight tends to mean lower insurance premiums

Rail Freight

Trains are a vital part of logistics routes across the globe, particularly in Europe and North America, where rail networks are comprehensive. In North America, for instance, rail freight accounts for about 15% of all freight journeys. It’s the ideal choice for organisations that require fast, scheduled and reliable freight in areas of the world where rail networks are strong.

What are the benefits of rail freight

• Trains offer more carrying capacity than road freight
• Less chance of delays owing to fixed schedules and the nature of rail journeys
• Low environmental impact compared to any other mode of transport. It emits over three-quarters fewer emissions than road freight
• A cost-effective solution for long journeys
• Particularly good for inter-country transportation