Methods of international transport

1. Road transport

1.1. • Low cost • Extensive road networks • Possibility to schedule transport and tracking the location of goods • Safe and private delivery

1.2. • long distances overland can take more time • there can be traffic delays and breakdowns • there is the risk of goods being damaged, especially over long distances • toll charges are high in some countries • different road and traffic regulations on some countries

2. Rail transport

2.1. Rail transport is a cost-effective and efficient way to move goods. Fast rail network throughout Europe. It is environmentally friendly compared with other transport systems.

2.2. • routes and timetables available can be inflexible, especially in remote regions • can be more expensive than road transport • mechanical failure or industrial action can disrupt services • further transportation may be needed from a rail depot to the final destination, increasing costs and affecting delivery schedules

3. Air transport

3.1. • deliver items quickly over long distances • give high levels of security for sensitive items • be used for a wide range of goods

3.2. • air transport can involve higher costs than other options, and is not suitable for all goods • flights are subject to delay or cancellation • there are taxes to be paid in each airport • fuel and currency surcharges will usually be added to freight costs • further transportation may be needed from the airport to the final destination

4. Sea transport

4.1. • possibility to ship large volumes at low costs • shipping containers can also be used for further transportation by road or rail

4.2. • shipping by sea can be slower than other transport systems and bad weather can add further delays • routes and timetables are usually inflexible • tracking the goods’ progress is difficult • port duties and taxes • further transportation overland might be needed to reach the final destination • basic freight rates are subject to fuel and currency surcharges