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    Pre-carriage and on-carriage transport as a holistic solution

    Shipment by sea usually includes multiple stages, for example from the production site to the port and from the port to the recipient. Coordinating pre-carriage and on-carriage through various modes of transport enables smooth and connected supply chains.

    Trimodal logistics
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    Cost-effective and sustainable transport option

    Rhenus operates numerous trimodal logistics centers at key locations along Europe’s coasts and waterways. By combining trucks, trains, barges and seagoing vessels, we provide reliable and flexible transport chains. Our pre-carriage and on-carriage services link the first and last legs of transport with primary shipping routes, while our logistics concepts emphasize sustainable and cost-efficient execution.

    Blue container with Rhenus logo

    Your advantages

    Because ports are often not situated at the production site or final destination, pre-carriage and on-carriage transport allow goods to move to and from areas not directly connected to a port.

    Depending on the urgency or type of freight, various means of transport such as trucks, trains and barges can be used for pre- and on-carriage. This flexibility helps optimize transport routes and costs.

    Pre-carriage and on-carriage transport help enhance port infrastructure by coordinating the movement of goods before and after port arrival, reducing the risk of congestion and bottlenecks.

    Your partner for holistic transportation solutions

    • At our port locations, we handle trimodal transshipment with modern, flexible technology. We also provide high-quality storage for your goods until onward transport.
    • Our locations hold various certifications such as ISO 9001, ISO 50001, GMP+, AEO and BImSchG (Federal Emission Control Act) permits for handling, storing and treating waste. We provide special equipment tailored to the type and requirements of your goods. Continuous investment in infrastructure and facilities aids in steady quality improvement.
    • At our terminals, a wide range of equipment ensures quick and accurate handling of your goods. Our ports are integrated into numerous national and international transport networks, enabling reliable delivery to your chosen destination – be it your warehouse, production site or directly to your customer.
    Friendly call center agent who is talking to a customer

    Holistic logistics approaches

    We get your shipments to their destination as our range of port logistics and sea freight services enables us to offer you customized solutions.

    Frequently asked questions

    In shipping, pre-carriage refers to the first stage of the transport process, during which goods are moved from the origin point such as the manufacturer’s site, a supplier’s warehouse or another storage location to the port or terminal where the main shipping route begins.

    The difference between the two lies in their stages within the transport process. Pre-carriage is the first leg, moving goods from the origin to the main shipping port, while on-carriage is the last leg, delivering goods from the arrival port to their destination. Pre-carriage links inland origins to main shipping routes, while on-carriage completes the journey to the final point.

    Depending on where your shipment starts and where it is headed, we use different types of transport such as road, sea and rail to move your goods efficiently.