Definition
Carriage using two or more transport modes under a single contract and one responsible operator.
Multimodal transport moves goods by at least two different modes — for example sea then road — under one contract issued by a single operator who takes responsibility for the whole journey, even though sub-carriers perform each leg.
The customer deals with one party and one document (a multimodal or combined-transport bill of lading), simplifying liability and coordination. It contrasts with intermodal transport, where the same loading unit moves across modes but legs may sit under separate contracts.
Related terms
Intermodal Transport
Moving the same loading unit across multiple modes without handling the goods themselves at transfers.
Transshipment
Transferring cargo from one vessel to another at an intermediate hub en route to the final destination.
Freight Forwarder
An intermediary that arranges and coordinates the transport of goods on behalf of shippers and consignees.
Transit Time
The elapsed time a shipment takes to travel from origin to destination, often port to port.
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