Detailed explanation of international cargo transportation modes: ocean, air, railway, container and multimodal transport

Ocean transportation

Ocean transportation is the most widely used mode of transportation in international trade. Its advantages include strong throughput, large transportation volume, low freight and strong adaptability to goods. However, ocean transportation is greatly affected by climate and natural conditions, and there are problems such as inaccurate sailing schedules and high risks. Most of the transportation of imported goods in international trade is realized through ocean transportation.

Air transportation

Air transportation uses aircraft to transport import and export goods. It is characterized by fast speed, high freight quality, and convenient pickup. It is suitable for urgently needed supplies, fresh commodities, precision instruments, and valuables. However, the price of air transportation is high, the transportation volume is small, and there are certain limitations on the types of goods. The air way bill (AIR WAY BILL, AWB for short) does not have the same property rights proof and control capabilities as the sea way bill.

Rail transportation

Railway transportation is an important mode of international cargo transportation, with the advantages of large volume, fast speed, low risk and punctual operation. However, rail transportation is limited by the coverage of the rail network. International rail transport uses a single rail waybill to transport goods to their destination through the rail networks of at least two countries. With the advancement of the “One Belt, One Road” policy, more transnational railway lines are connecting from various parts of China to the world.

Container transportation

Container transportation is an efficient and modern transportation method. Containers are used as containers for loading goods, and a variety of transportation tools can be used for transportation. Container transportation improves loading and unloading efficiency, reduces the number of cargo loading and unloading times, helps improve transportation quality, and reduces cargo damage and cargo differences. At the same time, container transportation simplifies freight procedures, reduces freight costs, and promotes the development of international multimodal transport. Commonly used container specifications include 20 feet and 40 feet, and refrigerated containers are used in special cases.

International multimodal transport

Intermodal transport is a mode of transport that combines different modes of transport, usually operating on the basis of container transport. It realizes the service of taking over goods from the territory of one country to the delivery point in another country. International multimodal transport involves a series of processes such as entering into a contract, arranging the release of empty containers, loading cargo, booking space, handling insurance, and issuing bills of lading. Since most goods are transported by ocean, ocean transportation dominates international intermodal transport.

International Express

International express delivery services are provided by well-known express delivery companies. There is no need to issue a specific bill of lading, and only the express delivery receipt is left to the shipper as a voucher. International express delivery costs are higher, but it is very convenient for small quantities of goods or personal foreign trade. It’s worth noting that international express delivery may require the recipient to pay import duties upon receipt of the shipment.

Conclusion

Understanding the various modes of international cargo transportation and their characteristics is crucial to foreign trade activities. Whether it is ocean, air, railway, container or multimodal transport, each method has its unique advantages and applicable scenarios. Correctly choosing the right transportation method can help companies save costs, improve efficiency, and ensure that goods reach their destination safely.