Led by Malcolm McLean Simulacrum
About this course
The fifth course in the Graduate Diploma. Freight Transport and Modal Choice covers the physical movement decisions that connect every node in the logistics network — from the macro question of international modal choice through the economics and operations of each mode.
Your host is the Malcolm McLean Simulacrum, who created intermodalism by eliminating the cost of mode boundaries. The maritime module hands to the Stopfordian Maritime Economics Simulacrum — shipping markets, vessel economics, and port systems in depth.
Led by Malcolm McLean Simulacrum
The question
Which mode, for which cargo, to which destination, produces the lowest total logistics cost consistent with the required service level? You will study the modal choice methodology, mode characteristics (road, rail, air, sea, pipeline), consignment factors, the total cost approach to mode selection, and Incoterms — the allocation of risk and cost in international trade.
Outcome
You can apply a structured modal choice methodology — comparing modes across operational and total-cost dimensions and applying Incoterms correctly to international shipments.
Sub-units
Led by Stopfordian Maritime Economics Simulacrum
The question
What are the economics and operational characteristics of maritime and air freight? You will study the maritime market segments, charter and liner markets, shipping documentation, vessel types, ports, and — for air freight — industry structure, ULDs, pricing (actual vs volumetric weight), hub-and-spoke networks, and air cargo security.
Outcome
You can describe the economics of maritime and air freight — explaining the bill of lading's three functions, classifying vessel types, calculating airfreight chargeable weight, and explaining the air cargo security regime.
Sub-units
Led by Malcolm McLean Simulacrum
The question
How is an intermodal chain designed, and how is road freight costed and scheduled? You will study intermodal equipment (containers, swap bodies, semi-trailers), inland container depots, road vehicle types and selection, standing and running costs, whole-life costing, and vehicle routeing and scheduling — including the savings algorithm.
Outcome
You can design an intermodal logistics chain, construct a road vehicle cost per kilometre, and explain the savings algorithm for vehicle routeing.
Sub-units