Combined Transport: Efficiency and Flexibility in Global Trade
Combined transportation is a modern type of transportation in which processes are optimized, costs are reduced and delivery times are shortened by using a combination of different modes of transportation in the logistics sector. Dec. In this article, the types, technical processes, components and contributions of combined transportation to the sectors will be discussed in detail.
Technical Processes Used in Combined Transport
Combined transport includes a number of technical stages in the planning and implementation of logistics operations
1. Determination of the Route:
The most suitable routes need to be determined for each mode of transport. The most effective combination should be chosen between highway, sea and railway routes in terms of cost and speed. Dec.
2. Integration of Transport Modes:
It is necessary to plan the connection points (port, terminal, transfer station) in detail in order for the different transport modes to work in harmony with each other.
3. Load Management and Consolidation:
In-container loading techniques are used for safe and efficient transportation of different types of cargo in the same transport vehicle.
4. Electronic Data Exchange (EDI):
The digital systems used in the planning and tracking processes of combined transportation ensure that all modes of transportation are monitored smoothly.
Technical Review of Combined Transport Types
1. Intermodal Transportation Techniques:
Container Usage: Transporting cargo in containers minimizes handling operations.
Modular Transportation: It is ensured that containers can be easily transferred Decently between trains, ships and trucks.
Contract Management: Requires a separate contract for each mode, which leads to the involvement of multiple parties in the transport process.
2. Multimodal Transportation Techniques:
Single Contract System: The entire transportation process is managed by a single logistics company.
Dynamic Transport Combinations: The most suitable mode combinations are selected according to the type of load.
Transport Timing: All processes are scheduled in such a way that different modes do not wait for each other.
Critical Planning Steps in Combined Transport
1. Logistics Network Design:
- Designing the connections between the terminal, port and transfer stations on the shortest and most economical routes. Dec.
- Fast completion of customs procedures in transit countries such as Turkey.
2. risk management:
- Minimizing the risks that loads may encounter during transportation.
- Selection of special modes of transport for special loads (dangerous goods, perishable goods).
3. Cost Optimization:
- Comparison of road, sea and railway fares.
- Consideration of carbon emission rates of transport modes.
4. Legal and Operational Compliance:
- International documents used in the transportation process (FBI, CMR, BL).
- Compliance with the customs and logistics regulations of the countries where the transportation is carried out.
Technological Applications Used in Combined Transportation
1. IoT and Sensor Systems:
- It is used to monitor the conditions of loads such as temperature, humidity and vibration in real time.
- It provides safe transportation, especially for sensitive products.
2. Transport Management Systems (TMS):
- Management of different transport modes via a central software.
- Automatic optimization of routes and timetables.
3. Transparency with Blockchain:
- Blockchain technology, which is used in cargo tracking during the combined transportation process, allows data to be shared securely.
4. Autonomous Vehicles and Drone
- It provides acceleration of automatic loading and unloading processes at transfer points.
- The use of drones for last-mile deliveries.
Modes that Provide Efficiency in Combined Transport;
1.Rail-Road Combination:
It provides economical transportation of heavy loads. It is especially used in transportation to Europe.
2.Sea-Airline Combination:
It is a fast and economical option for long-distance transportation. For example, in the trade from China to Europe.
3.Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) Ships:
It allows road vehicles to be loaded directly onto ships. Saves time in the transfer processes.
The Contribution of Combined Transport to the Sectors
1.Automotive Sector:
- It allows heavy and large volume parts to be supplied from different regions.
- With timely delivery, it is guaranteed that the production processes will not be disrupted.
2.Retail and E-Commerce:
- Rapid consolidation of products from different warehouses.
- The use of drones or electric vehicles in last-mile logistics.
3.Chemistry and Hazardous Substances:
- Special safety measures are taken for dangerous substances.
- Special containers and certified modes of transport are used.
Turkey’s Strategic Position in Combined Transport
Turkey is in an advantageous position in combined transportation due to its role as a bridge Decoupling between Asia and Europe. In particular, railway and maritime investments support the expansion of combined transportation. Projects such as the Marmaray and the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway line have increased the speed of transit transportation.
Combined transportation is one of the most efficient methods of meeting modern logistics needs. Proper planning of technical processes, integration of technological solutions and selection of appropriate transport modes increase the success of this system. It offers environmental benefits while providing cost savings and time management for businesses. In order to gain a competitive advantage in your sector, you should evaluate the solutions offered by combined transportation.