TLMT331 Week 7 Notes – Intermodalism & Technology | EDI, RFID & Internet in Intermodal Freight
Systems (APUS)
Week 7 Notes: Intermodalism & Technology
(Topic: EDI, RFID, and Internet Applications in Intermodal Freight Systems)
1. Introduction
Intermodalism integrates multiple modes of transportation—rail, truck, air, and sea—to move
goods efficiently from origin to destination. Technological advancements have become the
cornerstone of modern intermodal systems, improving data exchange, cargo visibility, and
operational efficiency.
2. Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)
Definition:
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) is the structured transmission of data between organizations
by electronic means. It replaces traditional paper documents such as purchase orders, invoices,
and bills of lading.
Applications in Intermodal Transportation:
Streamlines communication between carriers, shippers, and freight forwarders.
Enables real-time transmission of shipping instructions and tracking updates.
Reduces errors and manual data entry.
Benefits:
Faster transaction times.
Lower administrative costs.
Improved accuracy in documentation and compliance.
Example:
A rail carrier sends EDI updates directly to the trucking partner once a container reaches the
terminal, allowing trucks to be dispatched precisely when needed.
3. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)
Systems (APUS)
Week 7 Notes: Intermodalism & Technology
(Topic: EDI, RFID, and Internet Applications in Intermodal Freight Systems)
1. Introduction
Intermodalism integrates multiple modes of transportation—rail, truck, air, and sea—to move
goods efficiently from origin to destination. Technological advancements have become the
cornerstone of modern intermodal systems, improving data exchange, cargo visibility, and
operational efficiency.
2. Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)
Definition:
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) is the structured transmission of data between organizations
by electronic means. It replaces traditional paper documents such as purchase orders, invoices,
and bills of lading.
Applications in Intermodal Transportation:
Streamlines communication between carriers, shippers, and freight forwarders.
Enables real-time transmission of shipping instructions and tracking updates.
Reduces errors and manual data entry.
Benefits:
Faster transaction times.
Lower administrative costs.
Improved accuracy in documentation and compliance.
Example:
A rail carrier sends EDI updates directly to the trucking partner once a container reaches the
terminal, allowing trucks to be dispatched precisely when needed.
3. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)
