Intermodal Europe: the industry debates

Intermodal Europe – the world’s leading conference and exhibition for container transport and logistics over road, rail and sea – begins in Amsterdam in next week, from the 30 November – 2 December. Along with thousands of professionals from all areas of the intermodal industry gathering at the show, other highlights include the seminars which will be delivered by a host of international experts keen to share their knowledge.

Here Dr Martin Neese, Managing Director at Contargo GmbH & Co. KG, gives some insights into his seminar on reefers, taking place on Tuesday 30 November.

Reefer outlook – how are they becoming more involved in the intermodal supply chain?

“As specialised items of equipment, reefers have traditionally been transported in the European hinterland by truck. However, in the last few years they, like other types of equipment, have been featuring more and more often in intermodal hinterland services by rail-truck and barge-truck.

“On the one hand, the requirements for reefers are similar to those for box containers – they need to be efficient methods of transport, high-performing terminals which offer a reliable service. On the other hand, there are requirements specific to reefers which have to be met in order to promote their intermodal transport in the hinterland. The main prerequisites are serviced equipment, seamless transport, continuous control/monitoring and high general security levels.

“Contargo, as one of the leading networks in tri-modal container hinterland transport in Europe, has invested in its network and has initiated co-operations in order to fulfil both the general and the specific requirements.

“In the lecture, I will examine the requirements as well as present some examples of innovative reefer transport chains that have resulted from these efforts, and I look forward to welcoming delegates from across the industry.”

To find out more about the Intermodal Europe seminars and to register for the show, go to www.intermodal-events.com