Integrated transportation requires a single shipper to provide access to several modes of transportation in order to move cargo quickly and efficiently from one place to another. While integrated transport is very similar to intermodal transport, it is more concerned with the methods of moving cargo rather than the actual processes used in its handling.
Integrated carrier companies use two or more types of transport to move products from place to place. This often means trucks to pick up a load, trains to take it to a main transportation hub and then aircraft or ships take it to a faraway place where the process then works in reverse. When looking into integrated carriers, think about the following:
1. Well-known domestic shippers often have a worldwide fleet.
2. Many integrated transport carriers operate domestically.
3. There are several worldwide companies ready to provide integrated transport service.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Take a look at UPS and FedEx for integrated transport services
While UPS and FedEx may not be the most cost effective means of transporting cargo, they both have a proven track record, an extensive customer service system and a load of web applications and tracking services. For single or small shipments, the advantages of one of the common shippers may outweigh any additional cost.
I recommend: Both
UPS and
FedEx have an international and domestic freight department. They also ship internationally with their standard shipping methods.
Use domestic companies for local integrated transport service
Domestic companies often have extensive networks within North America. These integrated carriers 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 also has a number of shipping options and has lines that go to Alaska, Puerto Rico and Mexico.
Find worldwide integrated transport carriers for large-scale international transport
There are several international integrated carrier systems available. These companies have an extensive reach, 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 deciding on an integrated transport service, it may help to familiarize yourself with intermodal transport as well. By combining your efforts in a single company, you can achieve the speed and efficiency of integrated transport with the safety and reliability of intermodal transport.
The official source of Integrated Carriers is the Integrated Carriers page at Business.com
Related Resources from Business.com
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