There are many ways to transport goods: air, road, rail, etc. Even if they are all allowed to receive or send goods, their use and their cost differ from one to another.
Water transport
This is a means of transporting goods or merchandise by water: canals or rivers. It allows transporting a very important volume. River transport is often considered a low-polluting and massive mode of transport. With its slowness, it allows for saving on storage costs. In addition, it is the most popular means of transport in countries with an extensive network of waterways. In general, river transport in France has
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- 11,000 kilometers of inland waterway network;
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- 3,600 kilometers of canals.
Compared to other means of transport, river transport is the most ecological. It consumes less energy. Not only is it economical, but it is also environmentally friendly. Moreover, it reduces the risks of accidents, particularly for the routing of dangerous goods. This is why it is very popular with individuals and professionals.
This mode of transport is suitable for all types of goods. It also offers four forms of contract:
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- Multi-trip chartering agreement: this involves making several trips for a fixed tonnage.
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- Tonnage agreement: it consists in fixing the price per ton. However, the number of trips is unlimited.
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- Time charter: this involves renting a vessel for a fixed period.
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- A voyage chartering agreement concerns a given route or itinerary for a fixed tonnage.
A VNF or Voies Navigables de France visa is required for each contract.
Aerospace or air transport
This mode of transport represents 35% to 40% of the goods transported. It is mainly used to transport urgent, punctual, perishable, or bulky but light products such as electronic devices or fabric (clothing). It is very fast and can carry large volumes. No matter the distance or the journey, the delivery is always done between 24 and 48 hours. Indeed, it is the best option for transportation with a limited time and delivery.
ULDs or Unit Load Devices are used to facilitate the loading and unloading of goods. It is especially preferred for international transport. In addition, it can serve many destinations around the world. The cost varies according to the duration of the shipment and the weight of the goods.
Since it is a border crossing from one country to another, air transport is regulated by the Warsaw Convention. The contract of carriage is established between the shipper, which can be the forwarder, and the carrier or the airline. This is represented by the Air Waybill or AWB, drawn up either by the shipper or the consignee or by the airline. The AWB is at the same time:
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- The proof of price
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- The proof of the transport contract and of the taking in charge of the goods.
Road transport
It is the most popular means of land transport in all parts of the world. In fact, it can be combined with other modes of transport: air, sea, river, or rail. It is the only mode of transport that can make a direct delivery: “door-to-door”. In addition, the trucks used are suitable for all types of goods transport, especially for the transport of medicines or perishable products requiring a controlled transport temperature.
The cost of transportation is calculated according to the nature and weight of the goods and the distance to be transported. The maximum weight of the goods is 100 kg. The CMR consignment note governs the contract of carriage. The signature of this contract by the carrier justifies his commitment in case of damage or loss. Of course, it must also be countersigned by the sender. To optimize your logistic chain, ask for the services of a company specialized in road transport.
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