This is also a means of transport that find does not lie in each of the discussed forms.it is defined as packing of goods in containers which are of standard sizes. A container is a huge box designed in a special way for transporting goods ship, rail or air.
CATEGORIES OF CONTAINERISATION.
- Full-container load-they are used one exporter/importer.
- Less container load-they are loaded with goods of different exporters/importers put together since the goods for each exporter may not be enough to fill the container.
mainly used in ship transport. The Kenya port authority has established a container terminal in Nairobi called dry port to serve exporters and importers leaving inland.
ADVANTAGES OF CONTAINERISATION.
- Special containers can be used to transport particular goods e.g. chemicals.
- Containers provide simple and cheap movement of goods in the seaport because they are fitted with devices that assist handling.
- Containers help to save space because they don’t take as much space as small packers
- Use of machines for loading and offloading makes this means of transport more convenient
- The movement of containers in and around the ports is relatively easy since they are fitted with locks which assists in their handling
- Insurance costs are relatively low as risks are less.
DISADVANTAGES OF CONTAINERISATION.
- The cost of manufacturing containers is very high since they are made of expensive materials e.g. steel.
- They are only suitable for transporting large volumes of commodities
- It contributes to unemployment since they are capital intensive (usage of machines).
- Not suitable for bulky goods which are of awkward or irregular shape.
- Their use is only viable in and around areas with appropriate handling facility.