Post-Carriage
Post-carriage refers to the transportation of cargo from the discharge port or airport to the consignee’s final delivery location after the main sea or air shipment is completed. This is the final leg of the logistics journey, often handled by road, rail, or inland waterways. It ensures that goods move smoothly from the point of arrival to warehouses, distribution centers, or customer sites. Post-carriage completes the end-to-end transport process.
This stage includes activities such as arranging trucks or rail services, coordinating terminal pickup, and managing inland delivery schedules. Depending on the agreement, post-carriage may be handled by the carrier, freight forwarder, or consignee. Clear planning is important to avoid delays, storage charges, or congestion at ports and terminals. Proper documentation ensures cargo can move without interruption.
Post-carriage is commonly defined in transport contracts and Bills of Lading, especially for door-to-door shipments. It determines who is responsible for inland transport costs and risks after discharge. Efficient post-carriage helps maintain delivery timelines and customer satisfaction. It also plays a role in managing overall logistics costs.
Overall, post-carriage is a critical part of supply chain execution. It connects international transport with inland distribution. When managed effectively, it ensures timely delivery, reduces operational bottlenecks, and supports smooth cargo flow to the final destination.
Frequently Asked Questions about Post-Carriage
Clear answers to the most common questions people have when learning about Post-Carriage.
Responsibility depends on the contract or Incoterm. The carrier, forwarder, or consignee may handle it.
Road, rail, and inland waterways are commonly used to move cargo from the port or airport to the consignee’s location.
It completes the delivery process, prevents port congestion, and ensures goods reach their final destination on time.