PEKO Spedycja Intermodal transport Poland

Intermodal transport Poland

What Is Intermodal Transport: Definition

Intermodal transport, in simple terms, refers to the movement of goods using more than one mode of transportation, employing a single loading unit (such as a container or swap body) throughout the entire transport route.

According to the definition, intermodal transport is characterized by:

The use of at least two different modes of transportation (sea, rail, air, or road),
A single transport contract,
A single operator responsible for overseeing the entire delivery process,
Consolidation of goods into a single load unit to enhance transport efficiency.

Intermodal transport is sometimes interchangeably referred to as combined or multimodal transport; however, these terms are not identical. EU documents from 2001 provide distinct definitions for these concepts.

What are the differences between intermodal, multimodal, and combined transport?

Multimodal transport allows for changes in the loading unit, while combined transport involves a primary leg of the journey carried out by rail transport or sea transport.

Using the same containers or trailers throughout the entire transport route enables seamless movement of goods between various modes of transport. The share of intermodal transport in the global supply chain is steadily growing due to its numerous advantages.

Do you need an intermodal transport to/from or across Poland?

Entrust it to us! We will organize your transportation from A to Z, along with customs clearance and insurance of the goods.

Intermodal Transport and Freight Forwarding – Types

Intermodal transport is a type of freight movement that employs at least two different modes of transportation on a single route, without changing the loading unit. This approach enhances logistics efficiency, reduces costs, and is more environmentally friendly. Below are the main types of intermodal transport:

1. Road-Rail Transport (Intermodal Road Transport)

Description: Combines road and rail transport, with goods transported over long distances by rail and shorter distances by road.
Application: Ideal for container, trailer, and semi-trailer transport, primarily used in international and long-distance domestic shipping.
Advantages: Reduced CO2 emissions, lower fuel costs, and improved transport safety.

2. Road-Sea Transport

Description: Combines road and sea transport, where goods are shipped over long distances by sea and delivered to the final recipient by road.
Application: Commonly used in international trade, especially for containerized and large cargo.
Advantages: Cost efficiency for large volumes of goods and capability to cover long distances.

3. Rail-Sea Transport

Description: Utilizes rail and sea transport, enabling goods to be transported via rail infrastructure to ports and then by sea.
Application: Used for container and bulk goods transport over long distances, particularly in intercontinental trade.
Advantages: Low transport costs over long distances and high capacity.

4. Road-Air Transport

Description: Combines road and air transport, where goods are transported by air over long distances and by road over shorter segments.
Application: Primarily used for high-value, time-sensitive goods such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, and luxury items.
Advantages: The fastest form of transport, ideal for goods requiring expedited delivery.

5. Sea-Air Transport

Description: Combines sea and air transport, with goods transported over long distances by sea and then quickly moved by air during the final leg.
Application: Used in international trade, especially when goods need to reach their destination quickly after crossing oceans.
Advantages: Combines the cost efficiency of sea transport with the speed of air transport.

What Is an Intermodal Container?

An intermodal container is a standardized cargo unit designed for transporting goods using different modes of transport, such as trucks, trains, and ships, without the need to reload the goods themselves. The uniform dimensions and construction of these containers allow for seamless transitions between transport modes, increasing efficiency and reducing logistical costs.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Intermodal Transport

Advantages of Intermodal Transport

The most notable advantages of intermodal transport include:

Enhanced cargo safety – Since goods are not reloaded when switching transport modes, the risk of damage or theft is minimized.
Ability to transport heavier loads – In intermodal transport, a single container can carry up to 26 tons of goods, compared to the standard maximum of 24 tons in road transport. This is due to intermodal transport regulations, which permit a higher gross vehicle weight when a truck is used in combination with other transport modes.
Reduced CO2 emissions – Environmental care is a growing priority in the logistics sector, and intermodal transport is an eco-friendly solution.
Lower transport costs – Intermodal transport enables routes optimized for fuel efficiency.
Optimized transit times – Goods are transported faster than by sea and, in many cases, quicker than by road.
Single transport contract – A unified document simplifies the service process and oversight of the transport journey.

Interesting fact 💡

The European Environment Agency has released official data on the average CO2 emissions in road transport. It turns out that road transport generates nearly 140 grams per ton-kilometer (tkm), while rail transport produces 9 times less—just over 15.5 grams per ton-kilometer. This means that transporting an intermodal unit carrying a 24-ton load over a distance of 1,000 kilometers by rail reduces CO2 emissions by nearly 3 tons compared to road transport.

Disadvantages of Intermodal Transport

While intermodal transport has numerous advantages, it also has limitations:

Dependence on transshipment terminals – Specially designed intermodal hubs are required to efficiently transfer goods between transport modes.
Limited real-time tracking – Unlike road transport, intermodal shipments often lack precise tracking capabilities.
Longer transit times – Scheduling depends on the availability of container ship sailings and rail connections, which may limit flexibility.

The advantages outweigh the disadvantages, making intermodal transport the most beneficial solution in many cases.

Intermodal Transport vs. Multimodal Transport

The choice between intermodal and multimodal transport depends on the specifics of the shipment and the priorities of your business. Intermodal transport is often more cost-effective for standard, less delicate goods transported over long distances, where cost efficiency and safety are key. On the other hand, multimodal transport might be a better fit when quick adaptation to changing conditions or complex supply chains is required.

Comparison: Intermodal, Multimodal, and Combined Transport

Intermodal, multimodal, and combined transport are distinct methods of using multiple transport modes for cargo movement. Each approach has unique features and differs in several key aspects. Below is a comparison table illustrating the differences:

Aspect	Intermodal Transport	Multimodal Transport	Combined Transport
Transport Modes	Different modes of transport are used.	At least two different modes are used.	Multiple transport modes are employed.
Loading Unit	Single loading unit (e.g., container) used throughout.	Various units but under one contract.	Different units and combinations are used.
Operator	Multiple operators for different modes.	One operator manages the entire process.	Can involve various operators and contracts.
Transport Contract	Separate contracts for each mode.	Single contract for the entire route.	Contracts may vary for different modes.
Cargo Handling	No cargo transfer; unit remains intact.	Cargo handling may occur.	Often requires cargo handling.
Examples	Container transport by rail-sea-road.	Goods transported truck-rail-air under one contract.	Mixed use of truck, rail, and sea transport.

Intermodal—Eco-Friendly Cargo Transport

Intermodal transport reduces CO2 emissions significantly. With sustainability gaining importance in the TSL industry, the trend towards minimizing environmental impact is becoming a major driver for the development of transport companies.

Intermodal transport is gaining popularity. Rail transport, a critical component of intermodal logistics, is actively promoted by EU policies due to its ecological benefits, higher safety standards, and lower costs. Future changes in regulations are expected to further enhance its adoption.

Intermodal Transport in Europe and Worldwide

At PEKO Spedycja, we are a trusted partner for organizing intermodal transport globally. With years of experience, expert service, and a robust network of contacts, we deliver efficient solutions tailored to your needs.

We provide comprehensive intermodal transport services, ensuring on-time delivery to the final destination. We also handle documentation, warehousing, customs clearance, and cargo insurance.

Our top-tier logistics services cover domestic and international transport on both continental and intercontinental scales. Our flexibility and customer-oriented approach allow us to craft offers tailored to client needs. Supported by an expert team, tested methods, and strong partnerships, we ensure supply chains operate seamlessly.

When to Choose Intermodal Transport — Examples

Intermodal transport is ideal for large cargo volumes over short or long distances where different transport modes are necessary, such as in hard-to-reach locations.

Key advantages include optimal cost and time efficiency and the ability to ship large volumes of goods in one go. Outsourcing intermodal logistics to a professional company is the best option for those who value safety, convenience, and operational efficiency.

Intermodal, multimodal, and combined transport primarily differ in the organization of cargo movement, the number of operators involved, the type of transport contracts, and the approach to cargo handling. Choosing the right transport method depends on specific logistics requirements, costs, distance, and the characteristics of the goods being transported.

intermodal transport intermodalny PEKO Spedycja

Intermodal—Eco-Friendly Cargo Transport

Intermodal Transport in Europe and Worldwide

We provide comprehensive intermodal transport services, ensuring on-time delivery to the final destination. We also handle documentation, warehousing, customs clearance, and cargo insurance.

When to Choose Intermodal Transport—Examples

Intermodal transport is ideal for large cargo volumes over short or long distances where different transport modes are necessary, such as in hard-to-reach locations.

Intermodal Transport in Europe and Beyond

PEKO Spedycja is an experienced partner in organizing intermodal transport worldwide. Our expertise, dedicated team, and network of trusted contacts allow us to provide comprehensive logistics solutions. We manage documentation, storage, customs clearance, and cargo insurance to ensure efficient supply chain operations.

Intermodal transport is a modern logistics solution that optimizes costs, ensures cargo safety, and reduces environmental impact. Choose PEKO Spedycja for a seamless and reliable intermodal shipping experience.