Which transportation method moves shipments using more than one mode of transport to combine the advantages of each mode?

• A. Air-ocean shipping
• B. Rail-ocean shipping
• C. Intermodal transport
• D. Maritime trucking

Answer: (C)

Intermodal transport is about moving goods using more than one mode of transportation in a coordinated way. The idea is to blend the strengths of different modes—for example, using ocean or rail for cost-effective long-haul movements and road or air for speed and reach—while often transferring the cargo with standardized containers and minimal handling. This approach aims to optimize total transit time, cost, and service level by leveraging what each mode does best, without the shipper needing to handle the cargo during transfers.

The other options describe specific two-mode pairings or an unusual term, rather than the general method. Intermodal transport, as a concept, covers any combination of modes to gain their combined advantages.