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

Shipment by sea often includes several stages, for example from the production site to the port and from the port to the recipient. By combining pre-carriage and on-carriage transport across different modes, we create seamless and efficient supply chains.

Cost-effective and sustainable transport option

Rhenus operates several trimodal logistics centers at strategic locations along Europe’s coasts and waterways. We combine different modes of transport such as trucks, trains, barges and seagoing vessels to ensure reliable transport chains. Our pre-carriage and on-carriage solutions seamlessly connect initial and final transport legs with main shipping routes. When developing customized logistics concepts, we emphasize sustainable and cost-efficient execution.

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Your advantages

Because ports are often not located at the production site or the destination, pre-carriage and on-carriage transport allows goods to be moved to and from locations that are not directly linked to a port.

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

Pre- and on-carriage transport help optimize port infrastructure by managing the flow of goods before and after arrival at the port and preventing congestion or bottlenecks.

Your partner for holistic transportation solutions

  • At our port locations, we perform trimodal transshipment using flexible, modern technology. We also provide high-quality storage for your goods until further transportation.
  • Our locations hold various certificates such as ISO 9001, GMP+ and AEO, as well as permits for the handling, storage and treatment of waste. We also provide special equipment tailored to the requirements and nature of your goods. Continuous investment in infrastructure and superstructures guarantees consistent quality improvement.
  • Our terminals feature a wide range of equipment that enables fast and precise cargo handling. Our ports are fully integrated into national and international transport chains. From there, we deliver your shipment reliably to the desired destination, whether it is your warehouse, your production facility or your customer’s address.
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Holistic logistics approaches

We get your shipments to their destination. 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 initial stage of the transport process, when goods are moved from the origin point, such as the manufacturer’s site, a supplier’s warehouse or another starting location, to the port or terminal where the main shipping leg begins.

The difference between the two lies in their stages of transport. Pre-carriage represents the first leg, moving goods from the origin to the main shipping port, while on-carriage covers the final leg, transporting goods from the arrival port to their destination. Pre-carriage connects inland origins to main shipping routes, whereas on-carriage completes the journey to the endpoint.

Depending on where your shipment is and where it is headed, we use different modes of transport, including road, sea and rail, to move good efficiently.