ABSTRACT
The decision to select the appropriate transport mode to move goods or packages from their place of origin to the final destination involves a combination of complex calculations and considerations. This is true whether it is for comparatively local deliveries or to a long-distance destination on the other side of the world. Transport accounts for a high proportion of the final cost of the product, in some cases around 40 per cent. Due to the varied factors involved, international consignments clearly demand a careful and detailed approach. The choice of transport mode will depend on the type of goods, the urgency of delivery and the destination. The choices of transport mode are ocean freight, river or canal, rail, road and air. Frequently, there will be a combination of some or all of these to eventually form a major component of the total supply chain. Intermediate warehousing, repackaging and partial assembly may also be part of the process.
