Intercoastal carriers

Intercoastal carriers are waterborne freight transport services that connect East and West Coast ports. They usually utilize the Panama Canal to move goods between the two coasts, making them a vital part of the global logistics network. Thanks to their strategic location, intercoastal carriers can offer shippers significant savings in time and cost.

As the world’s economy continues to grow and trade becomes more complex, intercoastal carriers will become increasingly important players in the global supply chain.

3 types of intercoastal carriers

3 types of intercoastal carriers:

  1. Container ships – These vessels transport cargo in stacked containers that can be easily transferred between ships, trucks, and trains.
  2. Breakbulk ships – These ships handle large, non-containerized shipments, such as automobiles, construction equipment, and steel coils.
  3. Roll-on/roll-off (RO/RO) ships – These vessels are specifically designed to transport wheeled cargo, such as cars and trucks.

Advantages to shippers

Intercoastal carriers offer a number of advantages to shippers:

  1. Ease of access – Most East Coast ports is closer to Europe than West Coast ports, making it easier for European shippers to do business with East Coast ports.
  2. Reduced shipping time – The Panama Canal cuts shipping time between East and West Coast ports by up to two weeks.
  3. Cost-effective transportation – Thanks to their location, intercoastal carriers can often offer shippers lower transportation costs than other modes of transport.
  4. Improved security – Since intercoastal carriers travel through a variety of waterways, they are less likely to be targeted by pirates or other criminals.

Intercoastal carriers play a vital role in the global logistics network, connecting East and West Coast ports and offering shippers significant savings in cost and time. As global trade continues to grow, these carriers will become increasingly important players in the supply chain.

Related Links

VPA – Maritime Terms – Glossary of Logistics Terms_I
Chapter 6 Water Carriers. – ppt video online download
Chapter 6 Water Carriers
Chapter 5 Domestic Water Carriers. Brief History Natural Highway Play an important role in human history for transport, war, colony From canoe to battleship. – ppt download
Logistics terms, Logistics industry, Freight terms definitions, Transportation terms
Q3 Describe the different types of water carriers in the freight transportation

Related Videos