National standards for multimodal transport to be implemented in 12 2023

In the field of logistics and transportation, the construction of multimodal transportation is an important measure to promote a modern comprehensive transportation system. It not only helps to improve transportation efficiency, but also significantly reduces logistics costs. Especially at a time when the global supply chain continues to be tense, its importance has become increasingly prominent. However, despite the many advantages of intermodal transport, its development still faces some pain points.

First, poor coordination between different transportation modes leads to information asymmetry and delays in the transportation process. Secondly, the regulations and standards for each mode of transportation are not unified, which increases the complexity and cost of transportation. Finally, the lack of a comprehensive intermodal cargo classification and coding system makes the use of transportation statistics, transportation planning, information systems and other industry management difficult.

In order to solve these problems, the Ministry of Transport of my country organized and compiled two national standards, "Classification and Code of Multimodal Transport Cargo" and "Identification of Multimodal Transport Units". These two standards have been approved for release and will be officially implemented on December 1, 2023.

Multimodal cargo classification and codes

The "Classification and Coding of Multimodal Transport Goods" standard adopts a mixed classification method and divides multimodal transport goods into three categories: large category, medium category and small category. The large categories are mainly divided according to the main physical attributes and use functions of the goods, the medium categories are mainly divided according to the physical and chemical properties and their processing attributes, and the small categories divide the medium categories in more detail. This classification method has good applicability, compatibility and scalability, and can meet the requirements of multimodal transportation.

At the same time, the "Intermodal Transport Carrier Unit Identification" standard stipulates the scope of multimodal transport goods and codes, with unified regulations for large and medium categories, which are mainly used for transportation statistics, transportation planning, information systems and other industry management uses. There are blank codes for small category codes so that multimodal transport enterprises can formulate them according to their needs. These measures will help improve transportation efficiency, reduce logistics costs, and strengthen industry management.

Multimodal transport classification principles and methods

applicability

Classification according to the characteristics and attributes of goods, taking into account the characteristics of each transportation mode, transportation volume and transportation conditions

compatibility

Compatible with JTIT 19-2001, TB/T2690-1996

Scalability

Each category has containment items and leaves room for expansion.

Multimodal cargo code structure and coding method

It adopts a three-layer four-digit code structure, which can not only connect with industry standards, but also meet the requirements of multimodal transportation. The code encoding is represented by 4-digit Arabic numerals, and the encoding method of each layer of code is specified in detail. Leave blank codes for each category in case you want to add or adjust categories.

The classification and codes of multimodal transport goods stipulate the scope of multimodal transport goods and codes. This standard only provides unified provisions for large and medium categories, and is mainly used for transportation statistics, transportation planning, information systems and other industry management purposes. Small category codes are reserved, and multimodal transport enterprises can formulate them according to their needs.

Classification of major categories of multimodal transport goods

A classification code table for major and medium categories of multimodal transport valuables has been formulated, and multimodal transport goods are divided into 19 major categories and 116 intermediate categories.

1 Coal and products

2 Oil, natural gas and products

3 metal ores

4 Steel and non-ferrous metals

5 Mineral building materials

6 cement

7 wood

8 non-metallic ores

9 Fertilizers and pesticides

10 grains

11 Machinery and equipment

12 Electronic equipment, instruments and components

13 Chemical raw materials and products

14 Daily industrial products and cultural and sports supplies

15 Catering, food and tobacco products

16 Clothing and textile products

17 Pharmaceuticals

18 Agricultural, forestry, animal husbandry and fishery products

19 Other goods

The implementation of these two national standards is of great significance in solving the pain points of multimodal transport. They will promote the development of multimodal transport, improve the efficiency and convenience of logistics transportation, reduce logistics costs, and promote the construction and development of my country's modern comprehensive transportation system. At the same time, the implementation of these standards will also provide strong support for the stability and smoothness of the global supply chain.

With the deepening of globalization and economic integration, the demand and scale of international logistics continue to grow, which also puts forward higher requirements for the diversity and flexibility of transportation methods. As a comprehensive mode of transportation, multimodal transport can give full play to the advantages of various modes of transportation to reduce transportation costs, increase transportation efficiency, ensure transportation safety, and improve the transportation environment, thus having a positive impact on the development of international logistics. Impact.

Multimodal transport refers to the organic combination of two or more transportation modes such as roads, railways, shipping, and pipelines to form an efficient and convenient comprehensive transportation system to meet the needs of cargo transportation. Multimodal transport has the characteristics of a long industrial chain, high resource utilization rate, and good comprehensive benefits, and plays an important role in promoting the development of international logistics.

The impact of intermodal cargo on international logistics

Reduce logistics costs

Multimodal transport can select the most economical and fastest transportation method based on the characteristics of the goods and the transportation distance, thereby reducing logistics costs and avoiding the limitations and high transportation costs of a single transportation method. For example, for medium and long-distance bulk cargo transportation, multimodal transport can take advantage of the low cost of railways and waterways to reduce the proportion of road transportation, thus saving fuel costs, tolls, insurance premiums and other costs.

Improve logistics efficiency

Through multimodal transport, the transportation organization method is optimized, the coordination and continuity of transportation are improved, and the transfer, loading and unloading, waiting and other links in transportation are reduced. The time and distance of transportation are shortened, and goods can be seamlessly connected between different modes of transportation. , reducing transit time and costs, thereby improving logistics efficiency.

Enhance logistics flexibility

Different transportation methods can be selected according to the characteristics of the goods and transportation needs to meet the individual needs of customers.

Promote the development of international trade

It helps promote the development of international trade and provides support for the stability and smoothness of the global supply chain.

Promote regional economic development

It helps to promote regional economic development and provide support for regional economic prosperity.

Promote logistics technology innovation

It is necessary to continuously promote logistics technology innovation and improve the efficiency and convenience of logistics transportation.

Promote the development of green logistics

It is necessary to pay attention to environmental protection and sustainable development and promote the development of green logistics.

The difference between unimodal and multimodal transportation of goods

Unimodal and intermodal transport refer to different methods of transporting goods at different points in the supply chain. Here are the key differences between unimodal and multimodal transport:

Unimodal transport

Unimodal transportation involves the use of a single mode or means of transport to transport goods. It usually refers to using only one mode of transport for the entire journey, such as road, rail, air or sea.

advantage:

Simplicity: Unimodal shipping tends to be easier to plan and execute because it involves a single mode of transportation.

Specialization: It enables specialization and optimization of selected transport modes, potentially resulting in cost savings and increased efficiency.

limit:

Limited scope: Unimodal shipping may be limited in geographic scope and may not be suitable for long-distance or international shipments.

Intermodal challenges: It may not connect seamlessly with other modes of transportation, leading to potential bottlenecks or disruptions when switching between different stages of the journey.

Multimodal transport

Intermodal transport involves the use of multiple modes, or means of transportation, to transport goods. It combines different transportation modes such as road, railway, aviation, and sea transportation to complete the entire logistics journey.

advantage:

Geographic flexibility: Intermodal transportation offers greater flexibility to cover wider geographic areas, making it suitable for global supply chains.

Risk Mitigation: Using multiple modes of transportation helps mitigate the risks associated with specific mode disruptions by providing alternative routes.

More advantages of multimodal transport

Integration:

Seamless connectivity: Intermodal transport is designed to ensure seamless connectivity between different modes, reducing the risk of delays and improving overall efficiency.

Intermodal Containers: The use of standardized intermodal containers facilitates the smooth transfer of cargo between different modes of transportation.

complex:

Coordination challenges: Intermodal transport can involve more complex coordination between different carriers and logistics providers, requiring effective communication and planning.

Choose between unimodal and intermodal shipping:

Shipping Scope: Consider the geographic scope of shipping. For local or regional shipments, unimodal shipping may be sufficient, while global shipments often benefit from intermodal solutions.

Speed and cost: For certain routes, unimodal shipping can be faster and more cost-effective, while intermodal shipping offers a balance between cost and efficiency, especially for long-distance or international shipments.

Flexibility requirements: If your supply chain requires flexibility and resiliency, intermodal transportation can provide alternative routes when there are disruptions in specific modes.

In practice, many supply chains use a combination of unimodal and intermodal transport, depending on the specific needs of the goods being transported and the nature of the supply chain. The choice between the two methods is often influenced by factors such as cost, speed, geographic scope and the level of coordination required.