Overview
This lecture introduces the five basic modes of transport, their definitions, and their roles in logistics and supply chain management, with an example illustrating the use of multiple transport modes for global cargo movement.
Definition and Importance of Transport
- Transport is the method to move goods from one place to another, also known as freight transport.
- Transport adds value to the supply chain by enabling the delivery of goods from producers to consumers.
- Transportation is essential in daily life, affecting consumption, economic activities, and mobility.
The Five Basic Modes of Transport
- There are five main modes: land, air, water, rail, and pipeline.
- Land (road) transportation uses vehicles with wheels (cars, trucks, motorcycles) and is ideal for door-to-door delivery.
- Air transportation uses airplanes and helicopters, offering fast delivery over long distances, often for high-value or perishable goods.
- Water transportation moves goods over rivers, canals, or seas with vessels, ferries, and tankers and is cost-effective for large international shipments.
- Rail transportation uses trains running on tracks, suitable for heavy or bulk materials over long distances.
- Pipeline transportation is for liquid commodities (petroleum, gas, water), providing reliable, low-cost, and mostly automated movement.
Example: Movement of Goods (Case Study)
- A courier process is described for sending a package from Malaysia to the Netherlands using road and air transport.
- The process includes collection by road (van/truck), consolidation at an office, long-haul by larger road vehicles to the airport, air shipment, and final road delivery at the destination.
- The cargo travels through multiple modes and is delivered within 24 hours, demonstrating effective use of mixed transport modes in supply chains.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Transport — The movement of goods or people from one location to another.
- Freight Transport — The transportation of goods in bulk.
- Land Transport — Movement using road vehicles.
- Air Transport — Movement using aircraft such as airplanes and helicopters.
- Water Transport — Movement using vessels over rivers, seas, or canals.
- Rail Transport — Movement using trains on dedicated tracks.
- Pipeline Transport — Movement of liquid or gas through pipes.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Read "Supply Chain Management: A Logistics Perspective" by Coyle et al. (2011).
- Read Pienaar & Vogt (2016) for more information on transport management.