Coordinating multimodal transportation is one of the most strategic tasks in international logistics. Efficiently integrating sea, air and land transport allows for time reduction, cost optimization and the maintenance of a stable supply chain. However, this combination also requires operational precision that can only be achieved when there is clear planning, centralized communication and technological tools that provide full visibility of the process.

In a global environment where supply chains are increasingly interdependent, mastering this logistics model is not just a competitive advantage: it is a necessity.

An integrated vision is key to an efficient multimodal chain.

Multimodal transport implies that different actors, regulations and modes of transport interact in a single operation. This complexity requires an integrative vision.

According to the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index, the countries with the most efficient logistics chains are those where the different modes of transport operate with high levels of coordination and connectivity (World Bank LPI, 2023). This same logic applies to companies: the more integrated their chain is, the lower the downtime and the lower the probability of interruptions.

A holistic view makes it possible to analyze how each leg (from warehouse to airport, from port to distribution center, from land to sea) connects to form a seamless, frictionless flow.

2. Advance planning: the basis for avoiding mistakes

Proper planning means foreseeing transit times, loading windows, customs regulations, unit availability and possible contingency scenarios.

Phenomena such as port congestion, peak seasons and weather disruptions can significantly alter the overall logistics schedule. Against this backdrop, forward planning becomes essential to avoid delays.

Companies that operate with flexible schedules, alternative routes and advance bookings can better adapt to market variations and minimize operational disruptions.

3. Centralized communication avoids errors and keeps the operation aligned.

Multimodality requires that all stakeholders (carriers, airlines, shipping lines, customs brokers, warehousers and end customers) share accurate and up-to-date information.

The International Transport Forum’s Transport Outlook (ITF-OECD) highlights that fragmentation of information and lack of communication between logistics stakeholders is one of the main causes of operational delays and failures (ITF, 2023).

Centralizing communication through a logistics operator or unified platform allows any adjustment (a change of itinerary, a document to be updated, a new customs requirement) to be distributed immediately and accurately.

4. Technology: the essential ally for coordinating multimodal transport

Digitalization has transformed international logistics by providing visibility that was previously unthinkable.

FIATA, the global federation of freight forwarders, has documented how digital tracking and management platforms reduce errors, improve traceability and strengthen operational decision making (FIATA, 2023).

Airmar‘s tracking system, for example, offers:

• 24/7 real-time monitoring from pickup to delivery.
• Bilingual access in English and Spanish.
• Complete movement history.
• Instant notifications by mail or telephone.
• Export of reports and statistics.
• Advanced search and audit filters.

This visibility makes it possible to anticipate detours, adjust operations on the fly and respond quickly to any eventuality.

5. Anticipation and resilience: how to minimize delays in international logistics

Delays can be caused by external factors: port saturation, adverse weather, random inspections, fluctuations in cargo capacity or global events.

On this basis, we can say that the most resilient chains are those that integrate visibility, anticipation and flexibility into their processes.

This means:

• Reserve transportation in advance.
• Adjust modes of transport according to urgency or availability.
• Maintain identified alternate routes.
• Analyze historical data to forecast seasonal behavior.

Anticipation turns an external risk into a controlled scenario.

In conclusion, coordinating multimodal transportation efficiently requires precision, constant communication, strategic use of technology and sound planning. When these elements are integrated, multimodality ceases to be complex and becomes an advantage for the company: faster flows, fewer errors, optimized costs and greater competitiveness in global markets.

Choose the right transportation provider and ensure that your company has a partner that offers reliability, efficiency and flexibility. Aspects such as technology, geographic coverage and customer service are essential to ensure a transport service that meets your needs.

Airmar not only meets these requirements, but exceeds them, making it an outstanding option for any company seeking to optimize its logistics and transportation. Don’t let logistics be a concern, choose Airmar and make sure your shipments always arrive on time and in perfect condition. Learn all about our services.