What is Multimodal Transportation?

Updated: August 21, 2024

Multimodal transport combines two or more methods of transportation, or “modes.” Each mode of transportation–over air, sea, and land–has distinct advantages and disadvantages. Rather than depend on one method, multimodal shipping uses two or more.

The main benefit is efficiency. Multimodal logistics reduce transport costs while optimizing lead times and reducing inventories. By combining various modes of transportation, carriers like Carlile Transportation can optimize the cost of shipping, and reduce the risks of delay. That saves our customers both time and money.

What are the Benefits of Multimodal Transport?

Cost-savings

By utilizing multiple methods of transport, like trucks, planes, ships and barges the costs can be more precisely controlled to match the customer expectations for timeline of transit.

Flexible

When using more than one mode of transportation, a shipper can move goods more efficiently. This efficiency leads to a reduction in reliance on one method over another. Alaska is a challenging state due to its size and the weather conditions. These weather conditions can cause delays in sailings, air cargo and truck deliveries. Multimodal logistics provides solutions to combat things, like the weather, outside of a shipper’s control. Choosing multimodal transportation helps ensure timely delivery and reduces the risk of delays.

Logistical

Carlile Transportation has the entire array of transportation modes available to them–they do not have to hope that the railways go to a destination or worry about the distance to the closest airport. The logistical choices open to the shipper allow them to make the best decisions for the needs of their customers and are not limited by geography. Choosing multimodal transportation is also a great option for complex shipments. Moreover, it allows for greater flexibility and reduces travel time.

How Does Multimodal Shipping Compare to Single Carrier Shipping?

When compared to single carrier shipping, multimodal transportation offers a well-rounded solution for most companies. You don’t have to negotiate with multiple carriers. Instead, you can work with a single provider for all your shipping needs which simplifies the communication process.

Multimodal logistics offers more transportation solutions, shipping flexibility and on-time cargo delivery. An item may be shipped from Tacoma to Seward, placed on a train to Anchorage, trucked to the airport where it is then flown into a small village in rural Alaska – this is an example of multimodal transportation.

What are the Challenges of Multimodal Transportation in Alaska?

Alaska is known for its rugged terrain and beautiful wilderness and is home to some of the most remote communities in the nation.  It’s also home to 149 cities, 9 ports, and hundreds of airports both private and public. Connecting many of those logistical hubs is a well-maintained network of rail lines and roads. Put together, all of these modes and methods of transport make shipping to Alaska a process that not just benefits from multimodal logistics but, in most cases, demands it.

The challenges of multimodal transportation in Alaska are unique and multifaceted, given the state’s vast geography, extreme weather conditions, and limited infrastructure in many areas. 

Geographic Vastness and Remote Locations

• Alaska’s sheer size and the remote nature of many communities pose significant logistical hurdles. Some areas are only accessible by air or sea, limiting transportation options and increasing the complexity of logistics planning.
• Much of Alaska is not connected to the continental road system, which restricts ground transportation options and necessitates reliance on air or sea freight for even basic supplies.

Extreme Weather Conditions

• The extreme cold, heavy snowfall, and ice build-up during Alaska’s long winter months can severely disrupt all modes of transportation. Air and sea routes may be temporarily unusable, and road transport can become hazardous.
• Seasonal changes bring additional challenges, including thawing ice roads and increased maritime hazards during the spring and fall. These conditions require careful timing and contingency planning for multimodal transportation strategies.

Infrastructure Limitations

• While Alaska has several key ports, the infrastructure may not be as developed as in more temperate regions. This can lead to inefficiencies in cargo handling and increased turnaround times.
• Limited airfreight capacity and a constrained rail network further complicate the movement of goods, particularly for oversized or heavy cargo.

Regulatory and Environmental Considerations

• Alaska’s natural environment is protected by stringent regulations that can impact transportation routes and logistics strategies. Compliance with environmental laws requires careful planning and often additional costs.
• Transportation routes may cross indigenous lands, necessitating negotiations and respect for local customs and rights, which can introduce additional layers of complexity.

Preparing Shipments for Multimodal Transportation

Different Transport Modes

1. Understand Mode Requirements:

• Road: Consider weight and dimension restrictions. Use sturdy packaging to withstand loading and unloading.
• Rail: Ideal for heavy and bulky items. Secure goods on pallets for stability.
• Air: Prioritize lightweight and compact packaging. Label hazardous materials clearly.
• Sea: Use waterproof packaging for long voyages. Containerize goods for easy handling.

2. Packaging Best Practices:

• Use high-quality, durable materials.
• Choose packaging size and strength based on the mode’s handling and environmental conditions.
• Employ cushioning materials to protect against shocks and vibrations.

3. Labeling and Documentation:

• Ensure labels are clear, durable, and placed on multiple sides of the package.
• Include necessary shipping documents, such as a Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, Packing List, and any required permits or certifications.

Optimizing Logistics Strategies

1. Mode Selection:

• Evaluate cost, speed, and reliability factors to choose the best combination of transport modes.
• Consider environmental impact and select greener options when possible.

2. Route Planning:

• Use advanced logistics software for route optimization, considering factors like cost, distance, and transit times.
• Stay flexible and have contingency plans for unexpected disruptions.

3. Load Optimization:

• Consolidate shipments to maximize space utilization and reduce costs.
• Consider Less Than Truckload (LTL) or Partial Load options for smaller shipments.

Partner with Carlile for Hassle-Free Multimodal Shipping

The shipping experts at Carlile use multimodal transport options whenever the situation demands it. As a leading provider of cargo transport in Alaska, Carlile Transportation, gets your goods where they need to be. Contact us today.