Shipping - Industry
The shipping industry facilitates domestic and global manufacturing and trade through transportation of commodities and finished products, while also providing for the delivery of goods directly to consumers. A wide range of commercial transport methods can be found in the shipping industry, from bulk transport of commodities in railcars to highly specialized intermodal container shipping. The development in global manufacturing is one of the most influential recent drivers of this industry.
FOUR MAJOR MODES OF TRANSPORT IN THE SHIPPING INDUSTRY
Marine
Marine shipping occurs on general cargo ships, container ships, bulk carriers, and tankers.
Air
Commercial air cargo is flown from one destination to another for further transport to trade or consumer endpoints.
Rail
The rail sector transports cargo via regional and national rail networks. It is also instrumental in intermodal transportation.
FreightÂ
The freight sector facilitates the movement of goods to and from ports, as well as enabling domestic commerce.