Transportation Operations LINCS Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT considered a form of modal optimization?

1. Merge-in transit

2. Pooled distribution

3. Drop trailers

4. Containerized cargo

The correct answer is: Containerized cargo

Modal optimization involves strategies that enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of transporting goods using different modes of transportation, such as trucks, trains, ships, and planes. Containerized cargo is a method of transporting goods using standard-sized containers that can be easily transferred between different modes of transportation without unpacking the contents. While it is an effective method of transport, it primarily relates to the packaging and handling of cargo rather than the optimization of transport modes themselves. Thus, it does not fit the definition of modal optimization as it does not directly focus on the strategies used to improve transportation efficiency among different modes. In contrast, merge-in transit, pooled distribution, and drop trailers are all strategies that indeed optimize the shipping process by coordinating multiple shipments, maximizing vehicle loads, and minimizing transportation costs and times—factors central to modal optimization.