Transportation Mode Selection & Routing Flashcards

Which of the following best describes 'intermodal' transportation?

Answer: Moving freight using two or more modes in a single seamless journey using the same container

Intermodal transportation moves freight in a single loading unit (container or trailer) using two or more transportation modes, eliminating the need to rehandle goods at each mode transfer.

A logistics manager is routing a fleet of delivery trucks and must account for customer time windows. Which approach addresses this requirement?

Answer: Vehicle Routing Problem with Time Windows (VRPTW)

The Vehicle Routing Problem with Time Windows (VRPTW) is the routing optimization approach specifically designed to minimize cost while respecting customer-specified delivery time windows.

What does a 'fuel surcharge' in carrier pricing typically vary with?

Answer: The current price of diesel fuel

Fuel surcharges are typically indexed to current diesel fuel prices, allowing carriers to recover fuel cost fluctuations without renegotiating base freight rates.

When shipping hazardous materials by motor carrier, which regulation governs packaging, labeling, and documentation requirements?

Answer: DOT Hazardous Materials Regulations (49 CFR Parts 100-185)

The DOT Hazardous Materials Regulations (49 CFR Parts 100-185) govern all aspects of hazmat transportation by motor carrier, including packaging, labeling, placarding, and documentation.

What is the primary purpose of a 'routing guide' in shipper transportation management?

Answer: A document specifying which carriers to use and in what priority order for defined lanes

A routing guide specifies the preferred carriers, modes, and service levels for each defined shipping lane, ensuring compliance with negotiated contracts and cost optimization.

Which term describes the practice of shipping goods to a warehouse near customers before orders are received, to speed up final delivery?

Answer: Forward deployment (forward stocking location)

Forward deployment (or forward stocking location) involves positioning inventory closer to end customers before orders arrive, reducing last-mile transit time when demand occurs.

A CPL candidate is evaluating mode selection for a new product launch requiring rapid market penetration across the US. Product value is high, weight is low, and transit time is critical. Which mode is most appropriate?

Answer: Air express

For high-value, low-weight products requiring the fastest possible coast-to-coast delivery for market penetration, air express provides the necessary speed despite its higher cost.