Search
Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors

Glossar

Request a callback

Your partner in full-service logistics. Transport, warehousing, planning – all from a single source. We offer tailor-made solutions for your requirements.

Services

Intermodal transport chain

An intermodal transport chain refers to the transport of goods using multiple modes of transport – such as road, rail, sea, or air – without transshipment of the cargo itself. The aim is to combine the strengths of different modes of transport, optimize costs, shorten delivery times, and minimize environmental impact.

Fundamentals and How It Works

Intermodal transport is based on the use of standardized loading units, such as containers, swap bodies, or pallets, which can be directly transferred between different modes of transport.

  • Road: Flexible door-to-door delivery.
  • Rail: Cost-efficient and environmentally friendly for long distances.
  • Sea: Suitable for large volumes in international trade.
  • Air: Fast delivery for time-critical goods.

By combining different modes of transport, companies can leverage the advantages of each transport type while offsetting disadvantages, e.g., reducing transport costs compared to pure air freight or shortening delivery times compared to pure sea freight.

Benefits of the Intermodal Transport Chain

  1. Cost efficiency: Reduction of freight costs through optimal use of transport modes.
  2. Environmental friendliness: Reduction of CO₂ emissions by using energy-efficient transport modes such as rail or sea.
  3. Flexibility: Adjustment of routes and transport modes according to supply chain requirements.
  4. Reduction of empty runs: Through consolidated transport and standardized loading units.
  5. Reliability: Redundant route options ensure deliveries even in case of disruptions.

Challenges of the Intermodal Transport Chain

  • Coordination of different transport modes and freight forwarders.
  • Use of standardized loading units and corresponding handling equipment.
  • Transport planning and time management, as transfers and transshipments must be precisely coordinated.
  • Regulatory differences between countries or transport modes.
  • IT integration: Real-time tracking, route planning, and documentation across multiple systems.

Importance in Modern Logistics

Intermodal transport chains are particularly relevant in global trade, international supply chains, and project logistics. They enable companies to transport goods efficiently, cost-effectively, and sustainably. Modern supply chain strategies increasingly rely on intermodal concepts to optimize delivery times, meet environmental requirements, and enhance competitiveness.

By using digital tools and transport management systems, companies can monitor the entire chain, analyze costs, and continuously optimize processes. Intermodal logistics is thus a key component of modern, sustainable supply chains.

Share the definition of terms:

Further glossary terms

3
A
C
D
E
F
I
J
L
M
O
P
R
S
T
V
W

Further glossary terms