multimodal transport problems among S.A.A.R.C memebers

Here are some important problems highlighted that the SAARC community face regarding multimodal transport.

1- most forwarders are not able to offer end to end services of their own.

2- due to the political environment free access of trucks is mostly denied to other countries as border crossing is only permitted in daytime.

3- sea ports face long dwell time.

4- Railways are non existent in some member countries and in a disarray in another.

5- There is no uniform liability system. For each mode of transport liability system is different.

These problems do cause hindrance in trade and development and should be addressed by the governing bodies as soon as possible so that trade may flourish.

MULTIMODAL TRANSPORT

Hello,

I have created this blog to share my wealth of experience in freight management with my fellow colleagues and any one who is interested in topics related to freight management, transporting, ships, ports and everything in between. I have chosen my first article to be multimodal transport as it has become the essence of international trade. This article will give all of you some idea about multimodal transport, its benefits and problems.

Multimodal transport is a transport operation carried out by using different modes of transport of goods from door to door, organized by a single operator. It is considered as the most efficient way of handling international door to door transport. Even though this concept is not new it gained momentum due to increase in international trade in the late 20^th century.

Multimodal transport emphasizes on quick, efficient and safe way of transportation but this is not easy to achieve. There are many legal, social and political issues involved. The absence of international rules governing the successive carriage of goods results in a peculiar problem in the matter of carriers' responsibility and the liability for loss of or damage to the goods that occur in the course of a multimodal transport operation. One of the key issues is to establish the liability of Multimodal transport operation for loss or damage to goods. In some regions especially the third world countries the liability are not uniform i-e liability for each mode of transport is different. Another thing that should be kept in mind is thorough control of all steps like handling, storage etc efficiently using the best sources and technology possible. Forward planning of routes to be taken and regulatory frameworks is a must if the operation is to run smoothly.

In the end putting these problems aside and considering the different cultures, languages and trade practices it would be more beneficial for one operator to run the entire transport chain. This would result in more cheaper, quicker and safer mode of transport of goods.