Combined transport is another name for multimodal or intermodal transportation. When shipping goods using this method, cargo is stored in a final form, usually either a full shipping container or in premade wrapped pallets. The goods are then transported using multiple shipping methods to a final destination. The most common shipping methods are over road and rail, but some companies utilize air and water transport as well.

Depending on your shipping needs, finding a combined transport expert is easy. There are many domestic shipping companies that send goods all over North America and the rest of the world. Several large international companies specialize in the waterborne transport aspect of combined transport, but even within North America water transport can be a nice alternative to overland. Consider the following combined transport advice:

1. Domestic companies offer combined transport service all over North America.

2. Waterborne transport is a viable alternative to land transport.

3. International shippers offer water and air service all over the world.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use domestic companies for local combined transport service

Domestic companies often have extensive networks within North America. These integrated carrier companies offer reliable services and local offices should face-to-face time be required. They will also have lanes leading into less common areas where the international shippers may not go.

I recommend: Bridge Terminal Transport has a wide range of options available and ships all over the U.S. and Canada. They also have extensive contracts with other shipping companies, so if they can’t get your cargo somewhere on time they'll get it to somebody who can. JB Hunt has a number of shipping options and has lines to Alaska, Puerto Rico and Mexico.

Contact domestic waterborne companies for combined transport information

As one of the oldest forms of bulk shipping in the U.S., barges form a vital part of the shipping climate in the eastern part of the country. Many areas along the eastern inland rivers, such as the Mississippi, Illinois and Ohio, are designed with barges in mind. While a majority of domestic waterborne shipping is used for raw materials, there are several intermodal and cargo shippers as well.

I recommend: American Commercial Lines started working the Kentucky River but now services most major waterways in the U.S. Along with their barge service, they feature a set of full intermodal partners so you can use them to ship anywhere. U.S. United Barge Line specializes in trips throughout the central part of the U.S. They have a large number of southbound lines servicing the lower part of the Mississippi River.

Create combined transport ties with international companies

There are several combined transport systems available. These companies have extensive reaches, often to most large ports across the world. Since they carry such a high volume, your cargo rarely needs to sit in one location very long.

I recommend: Wallenius Wilhelmsen and Maersk both offer worldwide multilateral transport. They have huge fleets and several local subdivisions. Maersk is especially compartmentalized with individual services in many different countries, such as its U.S. Domestic Services.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When settling on a type of combined transport management look at the locations and methods that the company uses for its transport. Companies that service a wide range of locations and have several modes of transport will work better for your company should you need to expand into new markets.