More is better for ocean shipping, including more integration with other modes. New high volume vessels, improved logistics systems, better use of containers and more effective integration of ocean cargo with other modes of shipping have contributed to making ocean cargo a transportation alternative for shippers with transit time windows allowing for longer ship times. "For this reason, securing rates for routes which utilize multiple modal combinations is essential to a cost effective intermodal strategy that provides shortest transit times and the agility to alternate modes and carriers when there are capacity issues," says Ty Bordner, VP of product management and solutions consulting at Amber Road, a provider of global trade management software. According to Bordner, developing optimized intermodal routes requires a review of multiple service provider types and modes. "The ocean carrier may offer dray services, which can be add-on services at a beneficial rate over local dray carriers," he says. "There may also be alternative port options, including cheaper dray and rail options to the final destination. While ocean is a less expensive alternative to air transport, route and rate optimization is an important part of a successful intermodal transportation strategy."
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