ROAD TRANSPORTATION
Road transportation refers to the movement of goods and passengers by motor vehicles—such as trucks, vans, and trailers—on roads and highways. It is one of the most common and flexible modes of transport, especially for short to medium distances.
In logistics, road transport is critical for first-mile, last-mile,
and door-to-door delivery services.
Key Features of Road Transportation
1. Flexibility
- Offers door-to-door service
- Can access rural and remote areas
- Routes can be adjusted as needed
2. Speed for Short Distances
- Faster and more efficient than rail or sea for short hauls
- No port or terminal delays
3. Cost-Effective for Small Loads
- Ideal for Less than Truckload (LTL) or Full Truckload (FTL) shipments
- Lower handling costs due to fewer touchpoints
Types of Road Freight Vehicles
- Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs): Vans, pickups – used for small parcel or local deliveries
- Rigid Trucks: Used for urban distribution and moderate loads
- Articulated Trucks (Semi-trailers): Handle larger, long-distance freight
- Refrigerated Trucks: For temperature-sensitive goods (food, pharmaceuticals)
- Flatbed Trucks: For heavy machinery, construction materials, etc.
Core Functions in Logistics
1. Pickup and Delivery
- Collection of cargo from suppliers
- Final delivery to warehouses, stores, or end customers
2. Distribution and Supply Chain Support
- Links suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers
- Commonly used in just-in-time (JIT) delivery systems
3. Cross-Border and Domestic Transport
- Supports both local and international trade
- Must comply with transport laws, tolls, and customs at borders
4. Real-Time Tracking & Monitoring
- GPS and fleet management systems help optimize routing and ensure security
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