Containerisation

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 by ship, rail or air.

CATEGORIES OF CONTAINERISATION.

1. Full-container load-they are used by one exporter/importer.
2. 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.

1. Special containers can be used to transport particular goods e.g. chemicals.
2. Containers provide simple and cheap movement of goods in the seaport because they are fitted with devices that assist handling.
3. Containers help to save space because they don’t take as much space as small packers
4. Use of machines for loading and offloading makes this means of transport more convenient
5. The movement of containers in and around the ports is relatively easy since they are fitted with locks which assists in their handling
6. Insurance costs are relatively low as risks are less.

DISADVANTAGES OF CONTAINERISATION.

1. The cost of manufacturing containers is very high since they are made of expensive materials e.g. steel.
2. They are only suitable for transporting large volumes of commodities
3. It contributes to unemployment since they are capital intensive (usage of machines).
4. Not suitable for bulky goods which are of awkward or irregular shape.
5. Their use is only viable in and around areas with appropriate handling facility.