Multimodal transport is a freight solution in which two or more modes of transport – sea, rail, road or air – are combined within one transport chain.
The entire chain is coordinated by one logistics provider, so the different stages, terminals and transshipments are planned as one process. Depending on the type and volume of cargo, we select not only the mode of transport but also the appropriate transport unit, such as a rail wagon, container platform, truck or vessel.
Types of multimodal transport
Depending on cargo characteristics, volume, destination, deadline and budget, different modes of transport and transport units can be combined.
Complex routes may combine three or more modes of transport where this helps optimise cost, delivery time or the movement of larger cargo volumes.
This is one of the most common multimodal models. Cargo arrives at the port by vessel and is then delivered by truck to a warehouse, factory or final consignee. Road transport provides flexibility for collection and the final leg of the journey.
Suitable for large cargo volumes and longer inland distances. Containers can be loaded from the port onto rail container platforms, while bulk, general or special cargo can be loaded into wagons suited to its characteristics. This efficiently connects ports, terminals and inland logistics hubs.
The main part of the route is covered by rail, while collection and final delivery are performed by road. Containers are generally carried on container platforms and other cargo in specialised wagons, allowing the solution to be adapted to both regular flows and larger consignments.
This model is designed for time-sensitive cargo. Road transport collects the shipment from the sender and delivers it to the airport, the main distance is covered by air, and the final leg is completed to the consignee's address.
Process
1. Cargo and route assessment
We collect cargo data, quantities, dimensions, deadlines and route information so we can compare realistic combinations of transport modes.
2. Selection of transport modes and equipment
We select the appropriate combination of sea, road, rail or air transport together with the required rail wagon, container platform or other equipment.
3. Coordination of schedules and transshipments
We coordinate departures, terminal operations and transshipment windows to minimise waiting time between different modes of transport.
4. Execution and monitoring of the transport chain
We coordinate carriers, terminals and other partners, monitor cargo movement and respond quickly to changes.
5. Delivery and completion
We arrange the final transport stage to the consignee and provide information confirming completion of the multimodal transport chain.
Cargo and route assessment
Coordination of schedules and transshipments
Final delivery
Selection of transport modes and equipment
Execution and monitoring of the transport chain
- 1
Cargo and route assessment
- 2
Selection of transport modes and equipment
- 3
Coordination of schedules and transshipments
- 4
Execution and monitoring of the transport chain
- 5
Final delivery
Advantages
Properly planned multimodal transport combines the strengths of different transport modes and tailors the solution to a specific cargo flow:
Cost optimisation
The largest part of the route can be covered using a more economical mode, while more expensive transport is used only where it is genuinely needed.
Larger cargo volumes
Rail wagons, container platforms and sea transport make it easier to plan larger or regular cargo flows efficiently.
Accessibility
Combining different transport modes connects the port, terminal, warehouse and final consignee even when no single vehicle can cover the entire route.
Port of Klaipėda as a strategic multimodal hub
Port of Klaipėda is one of the key multimodal logistics hubs. It is the northernmost ice-free port on the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea and acts as an important bridge between Western Europe, Scandinavia and eastern markets.
The Port of Klaipėda has well-developed infrastructure that supports smooth and continuous logistics operations.
Integrated rail networks within the port make it possible to transfer cargo directly from vessels to rail wagons and vice versa.
Modern container and Ro-Ro terminals support fast transfer of cargo to trucks.
Customs warehouses operating within the port area allow the necessary inspections and formalities to be completed before cargo continues its journey.
By using the capabilities of the Port of Klaipėda, we build fast, reliable and cost-efficient multimodal transport chains.
FAQ
Multimodal transport uses several different modes of transport, for example vessel and rail, under coordination by one logistics provider. Intermodal transport also uses several modes, but the cargo remains in the same loading unit, usually the same container, throughout the journey.
With multimodal transport, one service provider coordinates the overall chain. Although cargo may change vehicles, ports or terminals, the customer has one main contact and one coordinated service agreement, simplifying responsibility and communication.
This model is well suited to cargo moving in standard sea containers as well as heavy, bulk and oversized cargo that cannot be delivered efficiently using only one mode of transport. It is also a strong option when the aim is to optimise logistics costs by combining economical sea transport with faster or more flexible inland transport.
