1. Definition – Forms of Multimodal Transport

Multimodal transport is the method of transporting goods using at least two different modes of transport, based on a single multimodal transport contract, a single transport document, a single liability regime, and only one party responsible for the goods throughout the entire transportation process from one point in one country to a designated point in another country for delivery.

2. Characteristics – Forms of Multimodal Transport

The transportation must involve at least two modes of transport.

The Multimodal Transport Operator (MTO) acts as a principal, not as an agent of the shipper or of any carrier involved in the multimodal transport.

The MTO is responsible for the goods during the entire transportation process—from the time the goods are received for carriage until they are delivered to the consignee, including delays in delivery at the destination. The MTO’s liability is subject to a specific liability regime, which may be a uniform liability system or a network liability system, depending on the agreement between the two parties.

In international multimodal transport, the place of receipt and the place of delivery are often in different countries, and goods are usually transported in transport units such as containers, trailers, etc.

Rail / Road / Inland Waterway – Sea Transport Model: This is the most common model for transporting import-export goods. Goods are transported by rail, road, or inland waterway to the seaport of the exporting country, then shipped by sea to the port of the importing country, and finally transported to the consignee located inland via road, rail, or inland waterway. This model is suitable for containerized goods on routes where transport time is not critically urgent.

Land Bridge Model: In this model, goods are transported by sea across oceans to ports on a certain continent, then carried overland to continue by sea to another continent. The land segment in this transport method is likened to a bridge connecting two seas or two oceans.

Other Models: Mini Bridge (Containers are transported from a port in one country to a port in another country, then by rail to a second seaport city in the destination country under a through bill of lading issued by the sea carrier), Micro Bridge (Similar to Mini Bridge, except the final destination is not a seaport city but an industrial zone or commercial center located inland).